Grandma’s Tangy Chow Chow

Chow Chow, a quintessential Southern relish, offers a vibrant medley of flavors and textures that tantalize the palate. This traditional condiment, deeply rooted in the culinary heritage of the Appalachian regions and across the American South, stands out with its unique balance of tangy and sweet notes, crafted from a harmonious blend of green tomatoes, bell peppers, and cabbage. Far from your average pickle relish, Chow Chow is a versatile, all-purpose topping that elevates a wide array of dishes, transforming everyday meals into memorable culinary experiences.

Discovering the Timeless Charm of Chow Chow Relish

For those seeking a condiment that delivers both zest and sweetness, Chow Chow is an unparalleled choice. Its distinctive profile comes from carefully selected crunchy vegetables, infused with a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy brine, and seasoned with a blend of warming spices. While family recipes for Chow Chow often vary, each version proudly carries on a tradition of flavor and preservation, reflecting the unique tastes passed down through generations. This recipe presents a beloved method, refined over time to produce a relish that’s consistently delightful.

The origins of Chow Chow are as rich and diverse as its ingredients. It is believed to have European or Asian roots, adapted and embraced by Southern American households as a means of preserving seasonal vegetables. Farmers and home cooks found clever ways to utilize their late-season bounty, particularly green tomatoes and cabbage, transforming them into a long-lasting and flavorful relish. This tradition of resourcefulness and culinary innovation has made Chow Chow a staple, particularly during the colder months when fresh produce was scarce.

Making Chow Chow at home is not just about creating a delicious condiment; it’s about connecting with a vibrant piece of culinary history. It offers the satisfaction of crafting something from scratch, ensuring the freshest ingredients and customizable flavors that store-bought versions simply can’t match. Imagine the crisp texture, the bright acidity, and the subtle sweetness – all controlled by your own hands. This homemade approach also means you avoid artificial preservatives and unwanted additives, making it a healthier and more wholesome option for your family.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chow Chow

What is the difference between Piccalilli and Chow Chow?

Both Piccalilli and Chow Chow are classic relishes commonly found in Southern cuisine, and while they share similarities, they possess distinct characteristics. Piccalilli is typically known for its spicier kick and often includes ingredients like red pepper flakes or other hot spices, alongside many of the vegetables found in Chow Chow. Its texture can also be firmer due to different preparation methods. In contrast, Chow Chow is generally a milder relish, characterized by a sweeter and tangier flavor profile. It often has a softer, more yielding texture compared to Piccalilli. It’s important to remember that these are general distinctions, and recipes for both have evolved over generations, sometimes blurring the lines. Consequently, some people do use the terms interchangeably.

Can you make Chow Chow with red tomatoes?

While Chow Chow is traditionally made with firm, unripe green tomatoes, using red tomatoes is technically possible. However, ripe red tomatoes have a higher water content and a softer texture, which could result in a more watery and less crisp relish. The distinctive tartness of green tomatoes is also a key component of Chow Chow’s flavor profile that would be altered with red tomatoes. If green tomatoes are unavailable, the best substitute to achieve a similar texture and tang would be tomatillos, which offer a comparable firmness and tart flavor.

Can I add some spices to this recipe?

Absolutely! One of the joys of homemade condiments is the ability to customize them to your taste. If you prefer a relish with more heat, feel free to chop up some fresh jalapeños and add them to the vegetable mixture, or simply stir in a generous pinch of red pepper flakes during the cooking process. Experiment with other spices like a touch of allspice or ground cloves for a different aromatic depth, or a hint of turmeric for a warmer color and earthy note. Just be mindful of quantities to ensure the added spices complement, rather than overpower, the classic Chow Chow flavor.

What do you put Chow Chow on?

Chow Chow is incredibly versatile and can be used in countless ways, often wherever you would typically use any other relish. It’s an exceptional topping for classic American favorites like hot dogs and hamburgers, adding a bright, zesty contrast. It’s also fantastic on BBQ sandwiches, cutting through the richness of pulled pork or brisket. In the South, it’s a beloved accompaniment to soup beans and cornbread – a truly comforting and authentic pairing. Beyond these, Chow Chow can be served alongside roasted meats, mixed into tuna or chicken salad, spooned over collard greens, or even as part of a cheese and charcuterie board. Its sweet and tangy profile makes it a delightful addition to almost any savory dish, making it a staple on many Southern dinner tables.

How much relish does this recipe make?

This comprehensive recipe yields a generous 11 cups of Chow Chow relish. When considering serving sizes, a common estimation is a tablespoon per serving. Based on this, with 16 tablespoons in a cup, 11 cups would provide approximately 176 servings. Of course, individual preferences vary, and many relish enthusiasts, myself included, might use a more substantial spoonful per serving!

Can you preserve this?

Yes, absolutely! Preserving Chow Chow is a fantastic way to enjoy this delicious relish year-round, especially when vegetables are in peak season. Canning is a popular and effective method for long-term storage. To ensure safety and quality, it is crucial to follow a reliable and up-to-date safe canning guide. Reputable sources like Ball’s website offer comprehensive instructions for safe food preservation. Canning allows you to stock your pantry with homemade goodness, ready to be enjoyed at any time.

How long does this last?

Thanks to its pickling process, Chow Chow has a good shelf life. When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this relish will remain fresh and delicious for up to 4 months. If you opt to freeze it, it can last for up to 3 months. Once thawed in the refrigerator, the relish will be good for an additional 4 months when kept refrigerated. Always ensure proper storage to maintain its quality and freshness.

Can this be frozen?

Indeed! Freezing is an excellent alternative if you prefer not to can your Chow Chow. To freeze, transfer the cooled relish into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Before serving, simply thaw the relish in the refrigerator overnight. It’s worth noting that freezing can sometimes slightly alter the texture of the vegetables, making them a bit softer, but the flavor will remain wonderful.

Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Chow Chow

Crafting the perfect Chow Chow relies on a careful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the characteristic tangy-sweet flavor and satisfying texture. Below is a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this Southern classic:

• Medium Green Tomatoes: These are the star of the show. Their firmness and natural tartness are crucial for the relish’s signature flavor and crisp texture. Refer to the FAQs above for more insights on why green tomatoes are preferred.
• Small Sweet Onions: Vidalia onions are an excellent choice if available, offering a mild sweetness that beautifully complements the other ingredients. Any high-quality sweet onion will work wonderfully, adding depth without overpowering the relish.
• Green, Red, and Yellow Bell Peppers: A vibrant combination of bell peppers is essential. They not only contribute a beautiful array of colors but also add layers of sweet and slightly bitter notes, enhancing the overall flavor profile. While you can use any combination, bell peppers are non-negotiable for authentic Chow Chow.
• Medium Green Cabbage: Green cabbage provides a delightful crunch and a subtle earthy flavor. It’s recommended to stick with green cabbage as red cabbage can significantly alter the color of the relish, turning it an unappealing shade. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, the choice is yours!
• Pickling Salt: This is a critical ingredient. Unlike regular table salt, pickling salt is free of anti-caking agents and iodine, which can cloud the brine and potentially affect the flavor and appearance of your relish. Using pickling salt ensures a clear, vibrant brine and optimal preservation.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Providing the essential tanginess and acting as a primary preservative, apple cider vinegar is fundamental to Chow Chow. White vinegar can also be used as a substitute, offering a sharper, cleaner acidic note.
• Granulated Sugar: Sugar is vital for balancing the intense tang from the green tomatoes and vinegar. It rounds out the flavors, creating the irresistible sweet-and-sour profile that Chow Chow is known for. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of sweetness.
• Mustard Seed and Celery Seed: These whole seeds impart classic pickling flavors and a subtle aromatic complexity. It is crucial to use whole seeds, not their powdered or granulated counterparts. Powdered spices can lead to a cloudy brine and a less appetizing appearance, potentially impacting the overall taste.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Irresistible Chow Chow

Making homemade Chow Chow is a rewarding process that yields a flavorful, versatile condiment. Follow these clear steps to create your own batch of this Southern favorite:

1. Prepare the Green Tomatoes:

   Begin by cutting the green tomatoes into a large dice. Transfer them to a food processor, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the machine. Process the tomatoes until they achieve the texture of a fine relish – be careful not to over-process, as this can turn them into a watery puree. Pour the processed tomatoes into a large bowl.

   
   

2. Process Onions, Peppers, and Cabbage:

   Repeat the processing step with the sweet onions and bell peppers (green, red, and yellow), dicing them finely but not pureeing. For the green cabbage, process it similarly, ensuring you measure out exactly 4 cups of finely chopped cabbage. You likely won’t need the entire head of cabbage. Combine all the chopped vegetables in the large bowl.

3. Salt and Chill the Vegetable Mixture:

   Add the pickling salt to the bowl with the chopped vegetables. Stir thoroughly to ensure the salt is evenly distributed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 8 hours, or ideally, overnight. This salting process helps draw out excess moisture and develops flavor.

   
   

4. Drain and Rinse:

   After chilling, thoroughly drain the vegetable mixture, pressing out as much liquid as possible. Rinse the mixture well under cold running water to remove excess salt, then drain thoroughly again. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

5. Combine with Brine Ingredients:

   Transfer the drained and rinsed vegetable mixture into a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot. Add the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, mustard seeds, and celery seeds. Stir all the ingredients well to combine everything evenly.

   
   

6. Simmer the Relish:

   Place the Dutch oven over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and continue to cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to slightly soften.

7. Jar and Store:

   Remove the Dutch oven from the heat. Carefully ladle the hot Chow Chow mixture into clean Mason jars. Fill the jars, leaving about half an inch of headspace. Allow the jars to cool completely to room temperature before sealing them and storing them in the refrigerator. For long-term preservation, refer to safe canning guidelines.

   
   

Craving More Relishes and Sauces?

• Refrigerator Pickles
• Dill Pickle Relish
• Homemade Sweet Pickle Relish
• Quick Sauerkraut
• Homemade Sauerkraut (Fermented)
• Pickled Red Onions
• Alabama White Sauce
• Homemade BBQ Sauce
• Pickled Banana Peppers
• Bread and Butter Pickles
• Fried Green Tomatoes
• Creamy Cucumber Salad
• Hot Dog Chili
• Virginia White Sauce
• Homemade Ketchup
• Homemade Pizza Sauce

Chow Chow Relish

Chow Chow is a classic Southern tangy and sweet relish made from tomatoes, pepper, and cabbage. An all-purpose condiment that can be used on so many foods!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (9 Reviews)

Print Recipe | Pin Recipe | Rate this Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Chill Time: 8 hours

Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes

Servings: 176 servings

Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

• 6 medium green tomatoes
• 3 small sweet onions
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 yellow bell pepper
• 1 medium green cabbage
• ½ cup pickling salt
• 3 cups apple cider vinegar
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 Tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon celery seed

Instructions

1. Cut the green tomatoes into a large dice. Place into a food processor, but do not overcrowd the machine; you will need to work in batches.
2. Process the tomatoes until they resemble a fine relish. Do not over-process or you will get tomato puree. Pour into a large bowl.
3. Repeat with the onions and bell peppers, dicing them finely.
4. Do the same with the green cabbage, but make sure only to use 4 cups of finely chopped cabbage. You probably will not use the whole head of cabbage.
5. Once everything is chopped and in a large bowl, add the pickling salt. Stir well to combine, cover, and place in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight.
6. Drain the mixture well and then rinse thoroughly. Allow to drain well again.
7. Place the mixture into a Dutch oven. Add the vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, and celery seed. Stir to combine.
8. Stirring occasionally, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes.
9. Take off the heat and add the mixture to mason jars. Allow to cool to room temperature before storing in the fridge.

Video

Notes

• Please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 15kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 2mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 3g

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

Did you make this recipe? Share it on Instagram @thecountrycook and mention us #thecountrycook!