Looking to add a bold punch of flavor to your meals? Meet chow chow relish, a tangy, crunchy, and slightly spicy Southern classic that’s as versatile as it is delicious. This vibrant condiment, made with green tomatoes, bell pepper, and a medley of spices, has been a staple on tables for generations. Whether you slather it over black-eyed peas, grilled meats, or sandwiches, its sweet-and-savory kick transforms any dish into a flavor-packed masterpiece. Best of all, crafting your own southern chow chow at home is easier than you might think—and so much tastier than store-bought options. Ready to dive into the world of pickling and create a batch of this irresistible relish? Let’s get started and find the recipe of delicious and tempting chow chow pickle.
Ingredients
To prepare this chow chow recipe, you’ll need:
Vegetables
- 4 cups green tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup sweet onions, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers (green, red, or yellow), diced
Seasoning & Spices
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (adjust for desired sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon celery seeds
- 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
Preparation Steps
Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and finely chop all the vegetables.
- Place the chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl, sprinkle with kosher salt, and toss well.
- Cover and let sit for 4–6 hours (or overnight) in the refrigerator to draw out excess moisture.
Drain and Rinse
- After salting, drain the vegetables and rinse them thoroughly under cold water.
- Use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out any remaining moisture.
Cook the Chow Chow
- In a large pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, and all the spices.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the prepared vegetables to the pot, stirring to coat them evenly with the vinegar-spice mixture.
- Simmer the mixture for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
Sterilize Jars
While your chow chow relish is simmering, prepare your canning setu p, sterilize mason jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
Fill the Jars
- Carefully ladle the hot chow chow into the sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace.
- Wipe the rims of the jars clean, then seal them with lids and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
Process the Jars
- Place the jars in a large pot filled with enough boiling water to cover them by at least 1 inch.
- Process the jars in a water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they are properly sealed.
- Remove the jars from the water and let them cool completely on a towel-lined surface.
Storing and Serving
Once cooled, your southern chow chow is ready to be stored in a cool, dark place. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious. Serve this tangy relish as a topping for black-eyed peas, hot dogs, or grilled meats. For those who love extra heat, try a hot chow chow variation by increasing the red pepper flakes.
Spice lovers want more than a hint of chili in their everyday meals therefore By learning the art of canning chili, you can preserve this delicious dish for months, making it easy to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of chili anytime.
Conclusion
Homemade chow chow recipe is a versatile and vibrant condiment that brings a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy kick to any meal. With simple, fresh ingredients and easy preparation steps, this recipe lets you enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own pickle from scratch. Whether served alongside barbecue, paired with sandwiches, or used as a topping for your favorite dishes, chow chow elevates everyday meals with its bold flavors. Store it in sterilized jars for long-term use, and share the joy of this delightful relish with friends and family.
