Chow chow relish is a Southern staple, a tangy and flavorful condiment made from pickled vegetables. Whether you’re new to this dish or have a family recipe passed down for generations, this relish adds a burst of flavor to any meal. In this post, we’ll walk you through a traditional chow chow relish recipe, explore its history, and give you tips on how to store and use it for various dishes. Ready to dive in? Let’s start!
What Is Chow Chow Relish?
Chow chow relish is a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy pickled condiment originating in the Southern United States. Traditionally, it’s made by combining a variety of vegetables, such as green tomatoes, bell peppers, cauliflower, onions, and carrots, with a vinegar-based brine. The vegetables are then pickled, typically with spices like mustard seed, celery seed, and turmeric. Chow chow relish is perfect for topping off grilled meats, adding to sandwiches, or even spicing up a side of mashed potatoes.
Though it’s most commonly associated with Southern cuisine, chow chow relish has variations across the United States and the world. It’s often used as a topping for barbeque, hot dogs, fried chicken, and even cornbread.
The History of Chow Chow Relish
Chow chow relish is deeply embedded in Southern culinary tradition. Its origin can be traced back to the practice of preserving vegetables through pickling, a technique used for centuries as a way to ensure that surplus crops could be enjoyed throughout the year.
In the South, chow chow became particularly popular due to its use in canning and food preservation. During harvest time, farmers would gather whatever vegetables they had on hand and preserve them by pickling them in brine made from vinegar and spices. This relish was often used to add flavor to meats like pork, chicken, and even beans.
Historically, chow chow relish was also referred to as “chow-chow” because of its “mix of everything” approach—much like the mixed vegetable dishes in many cultures. Each family would tweak the recipe based on what vegetables they grew in their gardens, making every batch of chow chow unique.
Key Ingredients for Chow Chow Relish
Now that you know a bit about the history of this tangy condiment, let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need to make your own chow chow relish at home. While there are numerous variations, the core ingredients generally remain the same.
Vegetables
The vegetables used in chow chow relish are essential for providing both texture and flavor. Here’s a list of the key ingredients you’ll find in most chow chow recipes:
| Vegetable | Role in Chow Chow Relish |
|---|---|
| Green Tomatoes | Provide a tangy, slightly tart base for the relish. |
| Bell Peppers | Add a mild sweetness and crunch. |
| Cauliflower | Adds texture and absorbs the brine well. |
| Carrots | Offer a subtle sweetness and color contrast. |
| Onions | Provide sharpness and balance to the relish. |
Brine Ingredients
The brine is the key to creating the signature tangy, sweet, and sour flavor of chow chow relish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Role in Chow Chow Relish |
|---|---|
| Apple Cider Vinegar | Gives the chow chow its tangy flavor. |
| White Vinegar | Balances the sweetness and helps with pickling. |
| Sugar | Adds sweetness to offset the acidity of the vinegar. |
| Salt | Enhances the overall flavor and aids in preservation. |
| Water | Dilutes the vinegar to ensure the brine isn’t too harsh. |
Spices
Spices elevate the chow chow’s flavor, giving it depth and complexity. These are the typical spices found in chow chow relish:
| Spice | Role in Chow Chow Relish |
|---|---|
| Mustard Seeds | Adds a mild spiciness and earthiness. |
| Celery Seed | Gives a unique, slightly herbal flavor. |
| Turmeric | Adds a warm, earthy flavor and vibrant yellow color. |
| Red Pepper Flakes | Offers a touch of heat (optional). |
| Black Pepper | Adds a subtle heat and sharpness. |
How to Make Chow Chow Relish: Step-by-Step Recipe
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s move on to the fun part: making chow chow relish! Below is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delicious relish. The recipe is easy to follow and will leave you with a flavorful batch of chow chow that’s perfect for canning.
Chow Chow Relish Recipe Ingredients
Here’s a comprehensive list of the ingredients you’ll need to make about 4-5 jars of chow chow relish:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Green Tomatoes | 4 cups, diced |
| Bell Peppers (any color) | 2 cups, diced |
| Cauliflower | 1 cup, chopped |
| Carrots | 2 cups, grated or finely chopped |
| Onions | 1 cup, finely chopped |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 2 cups |
| White Vinegar | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 2 cups |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Celery Seed | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Pepper Flakes | 1 teaspoon (optional) |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by dicing the green tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, and onions into small, uniform pieces. Chop the cauliflower into small florets. The goal is to have evenly sized pieces to ensure even pickling. - Make the Brine
In a large pot, combine the apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, celery seed, turmeric, red pepper flakes (optional), and black pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. - Add the Vegetables
Once the brine is boiling, add the prepared vegetables to the pot. Stir them gently to make sure they’re evenly coated with the brine. - Simmer
Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the vegetables to simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The vegetables should soften but still maintain some crunch. - Sterilize Jars
While the vegetables are simmering, sterilize your canning jars by placing them in a large pot of boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove and set aside to dry. - Pack the Jars
Once the vegetables are cooked, carefully spoon the chow chow into the sterilized jars. Leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top. Pour the brine over the vegetables to ensure they’re completely covered. - Seal and Process
Wipe the rims of the jars to remove any brine. Seal the jars with sterilized lids and process them in a water bath for 10-15 minutes to ensure they’re properly sealed for long-term storage. - Cool and Store
Let the jars cool to room temperature. Once cooled, store them in a cool, dark place for at least 1-2 weeks to allow the flavors to develop. Chow chow relish can be kept for up to a year if stored properly.
How to Use Chow Chow Relish
Chow chow relish is incredibly versatile and can enhance the flavor of a variety of dishes. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy this tangy, pickled delight:
Best Food Pairings for Chow Chow Relish
| Dish | Why Chow Chow Works Well |
|---|---|
| BBQ Ribs & Pulled Pork | The tangy, slightly sweet relish balances out the richness of BBQ meats. |
| Hot Dogs & Hamburgers | Adds a crunchy, zesty topping that contrasts beautifully with grilled meats. |
| Fried Chicken | Chow chow adds a bit of spice and acidity, cutting through the richness of fried foods. |
| Sandwiches & Wraps | Adds a layer of flavor, especially when paired with meats like turkey or roast beef. |
| Collard Greens & Biscuits | Complements Southern side dishes with its tangy and spicy profile. |
Creative Ways to Use Chow Chow Relish
- Stir into potato salad for a tangy twist.
- Mix into coleslaw to add a bit of heat and sweetness.
- Top grilled cheese sandwiches with a spoonful of chow chow for extra flavor.
- Serve as a condiment for fried fish or fried green tomatoes.
- Use as a marinade base for grilled meats.
Canning and Storing Chow Chow Relish
Chow chow relish is perfect for canning because it lasts for months (or even a year) when stored properly. If you’re new to canning, here’s what you need to know:
Canning Tips
- Sterilize Jars and Lids: This step is crucial for food safety. Always sterilize your jars and lids before using them.
- Water Bath Canning: Ensure your jars are fully submerged in boiling water during the canning process to properly seal them.
- Check Seals: After the jars have cooled, check that the lids have sealed properly. If the center of the lid is popped up, the jar hasn’t sealed and should be refrigerated and consumed within a few weeks.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Pantry Storage: Store unopened jars of chow chow in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed, they can last up to a year.
- Refrigerator Storage: Once opened, keep the jar in the fridge, where it should last for 2-3 months.
FAQs About Chow Chow Relish
Q1: Can I use different vegetables in my chow chow relish?
Yes! While the traditional recipe calls for green tomatoes, bell peppers, cauliflower, and carrots, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, beans, or even corn.
Q2: How spicy can I make my chow chow relish?
You can adjust the spiciness by adding more red pepper flakes or even chili peppers to your recipe. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of pepper or omit it entirely.
Q3: Do I have to can chow chow relish?
No, canning is optional. You can store chow chow relish in the refrigerator for a shorter period (about 2-3 weeks), but for long-term storage, canning is recommended.
Q4: Can I use store-bought vegetables for the recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables will give your chow chow relish the best flavor, but you can use store-bought, frozen, or even jarred vegetables in a pinch.
Conclusion
Chow chow relish is a versatile and delicious condiment that brings a burst of flavor to nearly any dish. Whether you make it spicy, sweet, or somewhere in between, it’s a wonderful addition to any Southern-inspired meal. By following this easy recipe and canning process, you can enjoy homemade chow chow relish all year long.
Have you made chow chow before, or do you have a variation of your own? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
