Old Fashioned Chow Chow is a Southern classic that brings bold flavors and a tangy twist to your meals. This relish is made from a colorful mix of cabbage, peppers, and onions, all simmered in a zesty vinegar solution that’s perfect for canning. It’s an excellent way to preserve summer vegetables, and it pairs wonderfully with everything from beans to meats, or even as a topping on your favorite sandwiches. Once you try it, it’s likely to become a regular in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this Old Fashioned Chow Chow because it’s both vibrant and flavorful. The balance of tangy vinegar, sweet sugar, and aromatic spices like mustard and celery seeds adds depth to every bite. Not only is it great for canning, but it’s versatile enough to serve with a variety of dishes. The slight crunch of the vegetables combined with the bold flavors makes it a perfect complement to so many meals. Plus, it’s a great way to use up seasonal vegetables and enjoy them throughout the year.
Ingredients:
1 medium head cabbage, finely shredded
6 green bell peppers, finely chopped
6 red bell peppers, finely chopped
12 medium onions, finely chopped
1 cup salt
4 cups sugar
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
1 tablespoon celery seeds
4 cups white vinegar
1 tablespoon turmeric
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Directions:
Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely shredded cabbage, chopped green and red bell peppers, and chopped onions. Sprinkle the salt over the vegetable mixture and toss to combine. Let it sit for 1-2 hours to draw out excess moisture.
Rinse and Drain: After soaking, rinse the vegetables thoroughly to remove the salt, then drain well to ensure there’s no excess moisture.
Create the Vinegar Mixture: In a large pot, combine the sugar, vinegar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and ground ginger. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Combine and Simmer: Add the drained vegetable mixture to the pot, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly with the vinegar mixture. Allow the chow chow to simmer over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
Canning: Carefully pour the hot chow chow into sterilized jars, leaving about a 1/2-inch headspace at the top. Seal the jars with lids and process them in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes to ensure proper preservation.
Serving Tips:
As a Condiment: Use Old Fashioned Chow Chow as a zesty topping for meats like grilled chicken, pulled pork, or burgers. It adds a flavorful crunch that complements rich flavors.
Sandwiches and Wraps: Incorporate chow chow into sandwiches or wraps for an extra layer of taste. It pairs well with deli meats and cheeses.
With Southern Dishes: Serve chow chow alongside traditional Southern foods such as cornbread, collard greens, and black-eyed peas to enhance their flavors.
As a Snack: Enjoy it straight from the jar as a tangy snack or appetizer. Pair it with crackers or cheese for a delightful treat.
In Salads: Mix a spoonful of chow chow into potato salad, coleslaw, or bean salad for an added kick and texture.
Storage Tips:
Canned Chow Chow: If you’ve canned the chow chow properly, store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cellar. They can last up to one year if stored correctly.
Refrigeration: Once opened, refrigerate the chow chow in the same jar or transfer it to an airtight container. Consume within 4-6 weeks for the best flavor and quality.
Uncanned Chow Chow: If you decide not to can the chow chow, store it in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 3-4 weeks.
Freezing: Although not ideal for this particular relish, if you have excess chow chow, you can freeze it in airtight containers. However, note that the texture may change once thawed.
Check for Spoilage: Always check for signs of spoilage, such as off smells, mold, or an unusual texture before consuming, especially if the chow chow has been stored for an extended period.
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FAQs:
What is Old Fashioned Chow Chow?
Old Fashioned Chow Chow is a traditional Southern relish made from a mix of finely shredded vegetables, primarily cabbage, bell peppers, and onions, which are pickled in a tangy vinegar solution with spices. It’s known for its zesty flavor and crunchy texture, making it a popular condiment for various dishes.
How long can I store canned Old Fashioned Chow Chow?
Properly canned Old Fashioned Chow Chow can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 4-6 weeks for the best taste and quality.
Can I adjust the spices in the chow chow recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the spices in the Old Fashioned Chow Chow recipe to suit your taste. Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as adding red pepper flakes for heat or using dill seeds for a unique flavor twist.
What dishes pair well with Old Fashioned Chow Chow?
Old Fashioned Chow Chow pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, sandwiches, hot dogs, and traditional Southern sides like cornbread and collard greens. It also makes a great addition to salads and can be enjoyed as a flavorful snack with crackers or cheese.
Conclusion:
This Old Fashioned Chow Chow recipe is a delicious way to preserve summer’s bounty while adding a vibrant touch to your meals. Whether you’re an experienced canner or trying it for the first time, this relish is sure to impress with its tangy flavor and delightful crunch. Try making a batch today, and enjoy the taste of Southern tradition right at your table!
📖 Recipe:
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Old Fashioned Chow Chow
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: Multiple jars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Old Fashioned Chow Chow is a classic Southern relish that combines finely shredded cabbage, vibrant bell peppers, and zesty onions in a tangy vinegar solution. This flavorful condiment is perfect for canning and adds a delightful crunch to any meal. Whether served alongside barbecue, mixed into salads, or enjoyed as a topping for sandwiches, this homemade chow chow will elevate your culinary creations. Discover how easy it is to make this timeless recipe with fresh ingredients and simple spices!
Ingredients
1 medium head cabbage, finely shredded
6 green bell peppers, finely chopped
6 red bell peppers, finely chopped
12 medium onions, finely chopped
1 cup salt
4 cups sugar
4 cups white vinegar
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
1 tablespoon celery seeds
1 tablespoon turmeric
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely shredded cabbage, chopped green and red bell peppers, and chopped onions. Sprinkle the salt over the vegetable mixture and toss to combine. Let it sit for 1-2 hours to draw out excess moisture.
- Rinse the vegetables thoroughly to remove the salt, then drain well.
- In a large pot, combine sugar, vinegar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and ground ginger. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Add the drained vegetable mixture to the pot, stirring to coat the vegetables with the vinegar mixture.
- Simmer the chow chow over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Pour the hot chow chow into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Seal the jars with lids and process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes.
Notes
Adjust spices according to your preference; you can add red pepper flakes for heat or dill seeds for extra flavor.
For best results, ensure jars are properly sterilized before canning.
If not canning, store in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 weeks.
- Prep Time: 2 hours (including soaking time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Relish / Condiment
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Multiple jars
