Chow Chow Relish

Bright, tangy, and versatile, Chow Chow Relish is a beloved condiment with roots in Southern cuisine. Bursting with flavors from a medley of vegetables and spices, it’s a perfect accompaniment to everything from hot dogs to cornbread. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the world of preserving, Chow Chow Relish offers a fun and delicious way to transform fresh produce into a homemade treat. Here’s everything you need to know about this classic relish, from its history to tips for perfecting your recipe.

Key Facts About Chow Chow Relish

• Origin: Historically popular in the Southern United States and parts of Appalachia.
• Main Ingredients: A mix of finely chopped veggies, including cabbage, tomatoes, peppers, and onions.
• Flavor Profile: Savory and tangy, with a hint of sweetness.
• Uses: Served alongside beans, barbecue, sandwiches, and more.
• Preservation: Often made as a canned condiment for long-term storage.

The History of Chow Chow Relish

The origins of Chow Chow Relish are a bit mysterious, with culinary historians tracing it back to both Southern Appalachian and Canadian cuisines. It is thought to be influenced by pickling traditions brought over by early settlers and adapted over the centuries. With its use of readily available vegetables and its ability to preserve the bounty of the harvest, Chow Chow became a staple in home kitchens throughout the South.

For many families, Chow Chow Relish was a way to minimize food waste, transforming surplus or “end-of-season” produce into a long-lasting flavor-packed condiment. Today, it remains a quintessential addition to Southern meals and is cherished for its unique, bright flavors that cut through hearty dishes.

Key Ingredients in Chow Chow Relish

The beauty of Chow Chow is in its versatility, with recipes varying across regions and households. Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to make a basic batch of Chow Chow Relish.

1. Cabbage
   • Acts as the main base, providing crunch and mild sweetness.
2. Green Tomatoes
   • Adds tanginess and texture to the mix.
3. Sweet and Bell Peppers
   • Typically red and green peppers for a balance of sweetness and color.
4. Onions
   • Brings depth and an aromatic bite to the relish.
5. Vinegar
   • Ensures the relish is tangy and shelf-stable, making it safe for canning.
6. Sugar
   • Balances the acid from the vinegar and adds a hint of sweetness.
7. Spices
   • A classic blend often includes mustard seed, celery seed, and turmeric for warm, earthy flavors.

How to Make Chow Chow Relish

Making Chow Chow Relish is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a delicious batch.

Ingredients for a Traditional Recipe:

• 1 medium head of cabbage, finely chopped
• 4 medium green tomatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

Steps to Prepare:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Finely chop or dice all the vegetables and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the salt, stir to combine, and allow the mixture to sit for 4–6 hours (or overnight) to drain excess moisture.

Step 2: Rinse and Squeeze

• Rinse the salted vegetables in cold water to remove excess salt, then gently squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Set aside.

Step 3: Boil the Pickling Mixture

• In a large pot, bring the vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric to a boil. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

• Add the drained vegetables to the boiling pickling mixture. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Pack and Process

• Spoon the hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving ½ inch of headspace at the top. Seal jars with lids and process in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Cool and Store

• Allow jars to cool at room temperature, ensuring the lids are properly sealed. Store in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Popular Variations of Chow Chow Relish

One of the delights of Chow Chow is its adaptability. Here are a few variations to suit different flavor profiles.

1. Spicy Chow Chow
   • Add red chili flakes, jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
2. Sweet Chow Chow
   • Increase the sugar slightly and use sweet onions for a gentler, sweeter version.
3. Vegetarian-Friendly Twist
   • Add shredded carrots or zucchini for extra color and texture.
4. Tangy Southern Style
   • Use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a richer, tangier flavor.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chow Chow Relish

1. Use Fresh Ingredients
   • The best Chow Chow Relish starts with the freshest vegetables available.
2. Dice Uniformly
   • Finely diced vegetables ensure even flavor distribution and a consistent texture.
3. Balance the Sweet and Tangy
   • Taste the pickling liquid before adding the vegetables to fine-tune the sugar-to-vinegar ratio.
4. Label Your Jars
   • If you’re canning multiple batches, include the date so you know which jars to use first.
5. Give It Time
   • Allow the relish at least two weeks to sit before opening—it gets better with time as the flavors meld.

How to Enjoy Chow Chow Relish

Chow Chow Relish is highly versatile and elevates a range of dishes with its tangy, bold flavor.

• Pair it with black-eyed peas, pinto beans, or even baked beans for a Southern classic.
• Use it as a topping for sandwiches, hot dogs, or burgers to add a zesty crunch.
• Serve it alongside fried chicken or cornbread for a comforting meal.
• Mix it with mayo to create a tangy spread for wraps or dipping sauce.