Are you looking for a vibrant, tangy side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Chow Chow recipe, featuring sweet corn as its star, is a delightful blend of sweet and sour flavors that will brighten up any meal. Perfect as a quick dinner side, this homemade recipe is a delicious addition to your repertoire of healthy meals. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on taste.
This recipe offers a fresh take on the classic chow chow, highlighting the natural sweetness of corn. It’s a versatile dish, adaptable to your spice preferences and perfect for canning if you wish to enjoy it throughout the year. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 8 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6-8 ears)
- 1 large green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 large red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup salt
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicier kick)
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large pot, combine the corn kernels, bell peppers, and onion.
Cook the vegetables:
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Prepare the brine:
- In a separate saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, water, salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Combine and simmer:
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Bring the brine to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
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Pour the hot brine over the cooked vegetables in the large pot. Stir well to combine.
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Return the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
Cool and enjoy:
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Remove from heat and let the chow chow cool completely. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Once cooled, transfer the chow chow to sterilized jars if canning, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for the Best Chow Chow:
- For a smoother chow chow, you can briefly pulse the vegetables in a food processor before cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter chow chow, add more sugar; for a tarter flavor, add more vinegar.
- If you don't have fresh corn, you can substitute with frozen corn, just be sure to thaw it before adding it to the pot.
- For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar along with the white vinegar.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. Use a nutrition calculator for precise values. Generally, this recipe provides a good source of Vitamin C and fiber.
Variations:
- Spicy Chow Chow: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño pepper for extra heat.
- Sweet Chow Chow: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a few chopped apples for a sweeter twist.
- Pickled Chow Chow: After the chow chow cools completely, carefully place it into sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to create a shelf-stable canned product. Always follow safe canning guidelines.
This easy chow chow recipe is a delightful addition to your collection of best recipes and healthy meals. Serve it alongside grilled meats, fish, or as a flavorful condiment on sandwiches or burgers. Enjoy!