Best 2 Southern Sweet Chow Chow Relish Recipes

In the realm of Southern cuisine, a condiment known as chow-chow relish holds a cherished place. This delightful relish, boasting a medley of crisp vegetables immersed in a sweet-tangy vinegar marinade, serves as a versatile accompaniment to an array of dishes, from succulent barbecue to savory fried chicken. While chow-chow's origins can be traced back to India, it was in the kitchens of resourceful Southern cooks that it truly flourished. The traditional recipe features a vibrant symphony of finely chopped cabbage, crisp carrots, tender cauliflower, and sweet bell peppers, united in a harmonious blend of vinegar, sugar, and spices. Variations of this classic recipe abound, with some introducing the piquant heat of mustard seeds or the aromatic warmth of celery seeds. Others venture into the realm of unique flavor combinations, incorporating fruits like pineapple or peaches to impart a luscious sweetness. Whether you prefer the classic rendition or crave a taste of innovation, chow-chow relish stands ready to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your culinary creations.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

SOUTHERN SWEET CHOW-CHOW RELISH RECIPE - (4.8/5)

Southern Sweet Chow-Chow Relish Recipe - (4.8/5) image

Provided by Susan52

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

2 quarts shredded cabbage (about one medium head). I use the same grater to shred the cabbage that I do to make slaw.
1/2 cup sweet onions chopped fine
1/2 cup chopped green or red bell peppers (optional)
2 Tablespoons salt
Combine chopped vegetables and sprinkle with salt. Let stand 4 to 6 hours in the refrigerator. Drain well.
Combine the following ingredients and simmer 10 minutes. Use a pot large enough to put the vegetable mix in later.
2 cups vinegar
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 teaspoons dry mustard
1 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
2 teaspoons celery seeds
2 teaspoons mustard seed

Steps:

Add vegetables to vinegar-sugar-spice mixture and simmer another 10 minutes. Bring to a boil. Then pack, boiling hot, into clean, heated canning jars, leaving only a 1/8 inch head space. Place canning lids and rings on jars and tighten. I usually turn the jars upside down so that all the heat is on the seals. I don't turn them back upright until the jars are completely cool. This recipe doesn't have to sit before it's ready to eat. After it cools, you can start tasting it. You won't be able to tell where the cabbage starts and the onions end. The flavors blend together perfectly.

HOMEMADE CHOW CHOW RELISH

Homemade Chow Chow Relish image

Hot Southern Chow Chow Relish recipe is a great way of preserving food and making a delicious relish to enjoy as a side, on beans, hot dogs and more.

Provided by Julia Jordan

Categories Sides

Time 1h45m

Number Of Ingredients 17

Ingredients

2½ pound Cabbage, chopped (may use up to 3 pound cabbage)
4 Medium Onions, chopped
5 Green Bell Peppers, chopped
4 Red Bell Peppers, chopped
4 Medium to Large Green Tomatoes, seeded and chopped
3 Jalapeno Peppers, seeded and chopped
½ cup Canning and Pickling Salt (or use Kosher Salt)
5 cups Granulated White Sugar
2 tablespoons of Prepared Mustard (I used French's)
1 tablespoon Mustard Seed
2 tablespoons Pickling Spice
½ tablespoon Turmeric
1 tablespoon Red Pepper Flakes
2 quarts White Vinegar (8 cups)
8 Pint Size Sterilized Canning Jars with Lids and Bands
Canning Tools - jar handler, funnel, air bubble remover, and a damp cloth
Water Bath or Steam Canner for processing (See Notes)

Steps:

Add the chopped vegetables to a large bowl (6 quarts) and cover with the salt. Gently mix then cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight.
Next, drain the liquid from the vegetables (do not rinse). Set aside.
In a large pot over medium heat; combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard, and spices then bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
Next, add the vegetables to the brine and return to a simmer then cook 15 to 20 minutes.
Pack the chow chow relish in sterile jars leaving ½ inch of head space; cover with lids and secure the lids with bands.
Process in a water bath or steam canner for 10 minutes.
Carefully transfer the hot jars to a towel lined countertop and allow to cool overnight. You should hear jar lids ping letting you know that they are properly sealed. (See Notes)

Nutrition Facts : Calories 20 calories, Carbohydrate 5 grams carbohydrates, Cholesterol 0 milligrams cholesterol, Fat 0 grams fat, Fiber 0 grams fiber, Protein 0 grams protein, SaturatedFat 0 grams saturated fat, ServingSize 1 Tablespoon, Sodium 5 milligrams sodium, Sugar 4 grams sugar, TransFat 0 grams trans fat, UnsaturatedFat 0 grams unsaturated fat

Tips:

To make the best Southern Sweet Chow Chow Relish, use fresh, ripe vegetables. Choose firm, crisp cucumbers, sweet onions, and red bell peppers.
For a spicier relish, add more red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
If you don't have celery seeds, you can substitute caraway seeds or fennel seeds.
If you like a sweeter relish, add more sugar.
Be sure to sterilize your jars and lids before canning the relish. This will help to prevent spoilage.
Store the finished relish in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

Conclusion:

Southern Sweet Chow Chow Relish is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes. It's perfect for adding a tangy, sweet flavor to sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers, and grilled meats. You can also use it as a topping for salads, tacos, and nachos. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Southern Sweet Chow Chow Relish is sure to be a hit!