Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport you back to simpler times? This old-fashioned chow chow relish recipe is more than just a condiment; it's a vibrant celebration of fresh garden vegetables, perfectly balanced sweet and tangy flavors, and a delightful crunch that will elevate any meal. Perfect for adding a zing to your backyard barbecues, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoying alongside a grilled cheese sandwich, this recipe is a keeper! It’s a truly delicious and easy recipe that is perfect for homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chopped green tomatoes (about 3 medium)
- 2 cups chopped green bell peppers (about 2 medium)
- 1 cup chopped onions (about 1 medium)
- 1 cup chopped cauliflower florets
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional, for added color)
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup water (optional, for thinner consistency)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop all the vegetables into roughly ½-inch pieces. Be sure to remove the seeds from the bell peppers for a less bitter relish.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large, non-reactive pot (stainless steel or enamel), combine the chopped vegetables, vinegar, sugar, salt, celery seed, turmeric, mustard, and black pepper. If you prefer a thinner relish, add the water at this stage.
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Simmer the Relish: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The longer it simmers, the softer the vegetables will become.
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Canning (Optional): If you wish to can your chow chow for longer storage, sterilize your jars and lids according to your preferred canning method. Carefully ladle the hot relish into the sterilized jars, leaving ½-inch headspace. Wipe the rims, seal the jars, and process according to your chosen canning method (water bath or pressure canning).
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Cooling and Storage: If not canning, allow the relish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld – the flavor actually improves over time! Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Tips for the Best Chow Chow:
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables! Adding shredded carrots, yellow squash, or even a few hot peppers can add interesting variations.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet relish, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup.
- Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add a few finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Thick or Thin: Adjust the amount of water for your desired consistency.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 70-80
- Carbohydrates: 18-20g
- Sugar: 15-17g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Fat: 0-1g
This old-fashioned chow chow relish recipe is a wonderful example of delicious and healthy meals you can easily make at home. Enjoy this quick dinner side dish, or use it as a fantastic addition to your favorite quick recipes. It is one of the best recipes that can be made easily and quickly. It's a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor, making it a perfect addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. This recipe is certainly among the easy recipes that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!