Chow Chow (Old Fashioned): A Tangy, Sweet and Savory Relish with a History

How to Make Old-Fashioned Chow Chow:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by chopping all of your vegetables—cabbage, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and hot peppers. Try to chop them into uniform pieces so that they cook evenly.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chopped vegetables with the sugar, vinegar, and salt. The mixture will look a little dry at first, but as the ingredients begin to heat up, the vegetables will release their juices, creating the brine.
3. Bring to a Boil: Place the pot on the stovetop over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow the chow chow to simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the vegetables will soften, and the flavors will meld together. You can cook it longer if you prefer a softer texture, but 20-25 minutes is generally enough for most people.
4. Taste and Adjust: After cooking, taste the chow chow and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer it spicier, you can add more hot peppers. If it’s too tangy, a little more sugar can balance the flavors.
5. Can the Chow Chow: Once the chow chow has reached the desired tenderness, it’s time to preserve it. Prepare your jars by sterilizing them in boiling water. Carefully ladle the hot chow chow into the jars, leaving about a half-inch of headspace at the top.
6. Seal the Jars: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue, then place the lids on the jars and screw the bands on tightly. Process the jars in a water bath canner for about 10 minutes to ensure they are sealed properly. If you don’t have a canner, you can also process the jars by placing them in a large pot of boiling water and making sure they are fully submerged for the same amount of time.
7. Let It Cool: After processing, allow the jars to cool completely. You’ll hear the familiar “pop” sound as the jars seal. Store your chow chow in a cool, dark place, where it will keep for up to a year.

This recipe makes approximately 8 to 9 pints, depending on the size of your jars. You can cut the recipe in half if you only want to make a smaller batch or are looking to use it for one night’s dinner. However, chow chow also makes a great gift for friends and family, as it’s a truly unique, homemade treat.

Tips for Making the Best Chow Chow

While the basic recipe for chow chow is quite straightforward, there are a few tips and variations you can try to customize the flavor and texture to your liking:

1. Adjust the Sweetness and Acidity: Some people like their chow chow to be sweeter, while others prefer a more vinegary taste. If you want a sweeter relish, increase the amount of sugar. For a more tangy version, add a little extra vinegar. Play around with the balance until you find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
2. Experiment with Spices: The recipe as written uses simple seasoning with salt, vinegar, and sugar, but you can add additional spices to give the chow chow extra flavor. Popular choices include mustard seeds, turmeric, cinnamon, and cloves. Some people also add a pinch of black pepper for additional heat and complexity.
3. Vegetable Variations: While cabbage, tomatoes, and bell peppers are the traditional base ingredients for chow chow, you can experiment with other vegetables based on what’s in season or available in your garden. Common additions include cauliflower, carrots, green beans, and even zucchini. Just be sure to chop the vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
4. Use Different Types of Peppers: The hot peppers in chow chow add a spicy kick, but you can adjust the level of heat to your preference. Some people use jalapeños, while others opt for milder peppers like banana peppers or bell peppers. If you want a real heat-packed version, add extra hot peppers or use a hotter variety like habaneros or serranos.
5. Fresh vs. Canned Tomatoes: While fresh tomatoes are typically used in traditional chow chow recipes, you can also use canned tomatoes if you prefer. Just make sure to drain the canned tomatoes well before adding them to the mixture.

How to Use Chow Chow

Chow chow is a versatile relish that can enhance a wide variety of dishes. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate it into your meals:

1. Serve as a Condiment: Chow chow is delicious when served as a condiment with meats like fried chicken, pork chops, and roast beef. The tangy and slightly spicy flavor pairs particularly well with savory dishes.
2. Pair with Beans and Greens: Chow chow is a classic accompaniment to Southern dishes like collard greens and beans (particularly pinto beans). The acidity of the chow chow helps balance out the richness of these hearty dishes.
3. Add to Sandwiches: Chow chow works great as a topping for sandwiches and burgers, giving an extra burst of flavor and crunch. Try it on a pulled pork sandwich, a hot dog, or a classic BLT.
4. Serve with Fried Foods: The bright acidity of chow chow cuts through the richness of fried foods, making it a perfect side for fried chicken, fried green tomatoes, or hushpuppies.
5. Enjoy with Cheese and Crackers: Chow chow pairs wonderfully with cheeses, especially sharp varieties like cheddar or blue cheese. Serve it as part of a charcuterie board or on crackers for a tasty appetizer.

Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of Old-Fashioned Chow Chow

Chow chow is more than just a condiment; it’s a connection to the past, a way of preserving the flavors of summer in a jar for enjoyment throughout the year. This old-fashioned recipe, with its combination of cabbage, tomatoes, peppers, and vinegar, is both tangy and sweet, with just the right amount of spice. Whether you make it as a homemade treat for yourself or as a gift for loved ones, chow chow is a dish that brings people together around the table.

By following this simple recipe and using the tips provided, you’ll be able to create a batch of homemade chow chow that captures the essence of Southern cooking. The best part? You don’t have to rely on expensive store-bought versions or complicated products

. Instead, you can make this delightful relish in your own kitchen, using fresh, natural ingredients. Enjoy the taste of tradition, and savor the flavors of this timeless dish.