Chow Chow

Chow Chow Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful Recipe from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 3 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Chow Chow is a popular Southern relish that is made with a variety of vegetables and spices. It is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes, from hot dogs to sandwiches to salads.

History

Chow Chow has its roots in Southern cuisine, particularly in the Appalachian region. It is believed to have originated as a way to preserve an abundance of vegetables at the end of the growing season. The name "Chow Chow" is thought to come from the Chinese word for a mixture of pickled vegetables.

Ingredients

4 cups onions
6 cups white sugar
4 cups cabbage
4 cups vinegar
4 cups green tomatoes
2 cups water
12 large green bell peppers
1 tbsp celery seed
6 large red bell peppers
2 tbsp mustard seed
0.5 cup salt (preferably non-iodized salt)
1.5 tsp turmeric
a pinch of hot pepper flakes

How to prepare

Chop or grate onions, cabbage, tomatoes, green and red bell peppers using your preferred method until they are finely chopped.
Sprinkle the chopped vegetables with salt and allow them to stand overnight.
In a saucepan, bring the sugar, vinegar, water, celery seed, mustard seed, and turmeric to a boil.
Rinse the vegetables and drain them well, then mix them into the boiling liquid.
Boil the mixture for three minutes.
Using a spoon or ladle, transfer the mixture into sterilized pint jars and seal them tightly.

Variations

Add diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Use different colored bell peppers for a more visually appealing relish.
Experiment with different spices such as cumin or coriander for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to finely chop or grate the vegetables for a more uniform texture in the relish.

- Allowing the vegetables to stand overnight with salt helps to draw out excess moisture and intensify the flavors.

- Sterilizing the jars before filling them with the relish helps to ensure a longer shelf life.

Serving Suggestions

Chow Chow can be served as a condiment with hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, or salads. It can also be used as a topping for grilled meats or mixed into pasta salads.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to sterilize the jars before filling them with the relish to ensure a longer shelf life.

- Boil the vegetable mixture for three minutes to help preserve the relish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute white sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

- Use different types of vinegar such as apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Chow Chow can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a month. Be sure to seal the jars tightly to prevent spoilage.

Presentation Ideas

Chow Chow can be presented in small mason jars or decorative containers for a charming homemade gift idea.

Pairing Recommendations

Chow Chow pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos or nachos.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Chow Chow in the refrigerator for up to a month. To reheat, simply spoon out the desired amount and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chow Chow contains approximately 50 calories.

Carbohydrates

Chow Chow is a high-carbohydrate food due to the sugar and vegetables used in the recipe.

Fats

Chow Chow is a low-fat food, as it does not contain any added fats or oils.

Proteins

Chow Chow is a low-protein food, as it is primarily made up of vegetables and sugar.

Vitamins and minerals

Chow Chow is a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the bell peppers and tomatoes.

Alergens

Chow Chow may contain allergens such as celery seed and mustard seed. Be sure to check the ingredient list for any potential allergens.

Summary

Chow Chow is a low-fat, low-protein condiment that is high in carbohydrates and a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chow Chow is a versatile and flavorful relish that is perfect for adding a tangy kick to a variety of dishes. With its mix of vegetables and spices, it is a delicious addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Chow Chow. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary in her cozy little kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was met with a delightful aroma that tickled my senses and piqued my curiosity.

Mary was standing at the stove, stirring a pot of bubbling vegetables that filled the room with a mouthwatering scent. When I asked her what she was making, she simply smiled and said, "Chow Chow, a traditional Southern relish that my grandmother taught me how to make."

I watched in awe as Mary expertly chopped, stirred, and simmered the ingredients together, creating a colorful and savory relish that seemed to be bursting with flavor. I couldn't wait to try it, and Mary graciously offered me a taste. The moment that tangy, slightly sweet relish touched my tongue, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Mary laughed at my enthusiasm and invited me to join her in the kitchen. As we worked side by side, she shared with me the history of Chow Chow and how it had been passed down through generations in her family. Each family member had their own twist on the recipe, adding different vegetables and spices to make it their own.

I was captivated by the idea of a recipe being a living, breathing thing that could change and evolve over time. It made me appreciate the importance of preserving traditions and passing down the knowledge of our ancestors to future generations.

Mary patiently guided me through each step of the process, teaching me the importance of balancing flavors and textures to create a harmonious dish. She showed me how to select the freshest vegetables, how to chop them just right, and how to season them with just the perfect amount of spices.

As we worked together, Mary shared with me the memories she had of making Chow Chow with her grandmother when she was a little girl. She told me about the laughter, the stories, and the love that went into every batch of relish they made together. It was clear to me that this recipe held a special place in her heart, and I felt honored to be a part of carrying on that tradition.

After several hours of chopping, stirring, and simmering, our Chow Chow was finally ready. Mary poured it into jars, sealing them tightly and labeling each one with care. She handed me a jar to take home, along with a handwritten copy of the recipe.

I left Mary's house that day feeling grateful for the time we had spent together and excited to share this new recipe with my own family. As I drove home, I thought about the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to preserve the stories of our past.

Now, whenever I make Chow Chow in my own kitchen, I feel a deep connection to Mary and her grandmother, to the generations of women who came before me, and to the traditions that have shaped my life. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned, the memories I have made, and the delicious relish that continues to bring joy to my family's table.

In the end, I realize that the true beauty of a recipe lies not just in its flavors and textures, but in the stories and traditions that it carries with it. And for that, I am forever grateful to my dear friend Mary and the timeless recipe for Chow Chow that she so generously shared with me.