Old-Fashioned Chow Chow

If you’re looking to add a touch of traditional flavor to your meals, our Old-Fashioned Chow Chow is just what you need. This classic pickled relish is perfect for enhancing everything from sandwiches to grilled meats. With its combination of crisp vegetables and tangy, sweet brine, chow chow is a beloved staple in Southern and Appalachian cuisine. Let’s dive into how you can make this time-honored relish at home!

Ingredients

• 1 small cabbage, chopped
• 6 to 8 green or red tomatoes, chopped
• 6 medium bell peppers, chopped
• 6 large onions, chopped
• 2 hot peppers, chopped (adjust to taste)
• 3 cups sugar
• 5 cups white vinegar
• 1/4 cup salt or pickling salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped cabbage, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and hot peppers.
2. Sprinkle the salt over the vegetables and mix well. Let the mixture sit for about 1 hour to draw out excess moisture from the vegetables.

Step 2: Drain and Rinse

1. After the vegetables have rested, drain them in a colander.
2. Rinse the vegetables under cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 3: Cook the Chow Chow

1. In a large pot, combine the sugar and white vinegar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the drained vegetables to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 4: Jar the Chow Chow

1. Sterilize your canning jars and lids according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Using a ladle, carefully spoon the hot chow chow into the prepared jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
3. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
4. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.

Step 5: Process the Jars

1. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they are properly sealed.
2. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a clean kitchen towel or wire rack.

Tips and Variations

• Adjust the Heat: Modify the number of hot peppers to suit your taste. For a milder version, reduce the number of hot peppers or remove the seeds.
• Additional Flavors: Experiment with adding spices like mustard seeds, turmeric, or celery seeds for extra flavor.
• Storage: Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Allow the chow chow to sit for at least 1-2 weeks to develop its flavors before using.

Our Old-Fashioned Chow Chow is a delightful way to preserve the flavors of fresh vegetables in a tangy, sweet relish. It’s a versatile condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes and is perfect for adding a touch of homemade charm to your meals.

We’d love to see how your chow chow turns out! Share your creations in the comments or tag us on social media with your homemade relish.