Chow Chow (Old Fashioned): A Tangy, Flavorful Relish
Chow Chow is a classic Southern relish that has been passed down through generations. Known for its tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors, this old-fashioned chow chow recipe is a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Traditionally, it’s made with a mix of pickled vegetables, including cabbage, green tomatoes, onions, and peppers. It’s ideal for adding a zesty kick to your meals, especially with fried foods, hot dogs, burgers, or even as a topping for beans.
This homemade version of Chow Chow brings the perfect balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will become a favorite for preserving the fresh flavors of summer.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
This Chow Chow (Old Fashioned) recipe is easy to make and yields a flavorful and tangy relish that’s perfect for storing and enjoying all year long.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups chopped cabbage
- 2 cups chopped onions
- 2 cups chopped green tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (green or red)
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1/4 cup salt
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon turmeric
- 1 tablespoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, mix the chopped cabbage, onions, tomatoes, peppers, and carrots. Sprinkle the salt over the vegetables, stir well, and let them sit for 2 hours. This step helps draw out excess moisture and enhances the flavor.
- Drain the Vegetables: After the vegetables have rested, drain them and rinse them thoroughly with cold water to remove excess salt.
- Cook the Chow Chow: In a large saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, turmeric, celery seeds, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
- Add the Vegetables: Once the vinegar mixture is simmering, add the drained vegetables to the saucepan. Stir to combine, then bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the chow chow simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should become tender and the liquid should reduce to a syrupy consistency.
- Pack and Seal: While the chow chow is simmering, prepare sterilized jars. Once the relish is ready, carefully ladle the hot chow chow into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth, and seal with sterilized lids.
- Process the Jars: To ensure the chow chow stays fresh, process the jars in a hot water bath for 10 minutes. This will help seal the jars and preserve the relish for long-term storage.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for at least 2-3 weeks before opening to allow the flavors to meld.
Advanced Techniques
While the basic recipe is straightforward, here are some advanced techniques you can use to enhance your Chow Chow (Old Fashioned) even further:
1. Customize the Vegetables
Feel free to customize the vegetables in the chow chow to your liking. You can experiment with adding green beans, cauliflower, or even small chunks of zucchini for added texture and flavor. Use whatever seasonal vegetables are available to you.
2. Adjust the Spice Level
To make your chow chow spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a fresh hot pepper, such as jalapeño or serrano, to the mixture. For a milder version, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or leave them out entirely.
3. Add Herbs
For additional depth of flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or dill to the mix. These herbs will infuse the chow chow with a more aromatic taste.
4. Use Raw Honey Instead of Sugar
For a more natural sweetness, swap the white sugar for raw honey. Honey adds complexity and richness to the relish while also making it a bit more unique.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
This Chow Chow (Old Fashioned) relish is a fantastic preserve, and it can be stored for several months. Here are some tips to maintain its freshness:
Storage
Once the jars have been sealed, store them in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cellar. Unopened, chow chow can last up to 1 year if stored correctly.
Refrigeration
Once opened, store the chow chow in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 weeks. Be sure to always use a clean utensil when removing the chow chow from the jar to avoid contamination.
Freezing
While it’s not recommended to freeze chow chow in jars, you can freeze small portions of it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Keep in mind that freezing might alter the texture slightly.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
For those with dietary preferences or restrictions, there are a few adaptations you can make to this Chow Chow (Old Fashioned) recipe:
Low-Sugar
If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the amount of sugar or substitute with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. Keep in mind that this might affect the flavor and consistency.
Vegan/Vegetarian
This recipe is naturally vegan and vegetarian, as it contains no animal products. Simply ensure that the vinegar and spices used are vegan-friendly (most are, but it’s always good to double-check).
Gluten-Free
Chow chow is gluten-free by nature, but always make sure that the mustard seeds and any pre-ground spices you use don’t contain any added gluten.
FAQs About The Recipe
1. Can I use yellow tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
Yes, you can use yellow tomatoes, though they may alter the final color and flavor of the chow chow. Green tomatoes provide a more tart and firm texture, but yellow or red tomatoes can still work well.
2. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to double the ingredients to make larger batches, especially if you plan on canning the chow chow for long-term storage.
3. Can I can this recipe using a pressure canner?
While this recipe can be processed in a hot water bath canner, it’s not recommended for a pressure canner. The acidity of the vinegar should be sufficient to preserve the chow chow without the need for pressure canning.
4. Can I use other vinegars for different flavors?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar, rice vinegar, or red wine vinegar. Each vinegar will give a slightly different flavor profile, so experiment with what suits your taste best.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Chow Chow (Old Fashioned) is a delightful, tangy relish that brings together the vibrant flavors of pickled vegetables with a touch of sweetness and heat. Whether enjoyed as a topping for meats, beans, or sandwiches, or eaten straight from the jar, this relish offers a bold, satisfying flavor with every bite.
Making your own chow chow is an excellent way to preserve the flavors of fresh vegetables, and it’s an incredibly versatile condiment. With its easy-to-follow recipe and endless customization options, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves pickled foods.