Aunt Fay'S Chow Chow
A tangy, spicy relish packed with green tomatoes, peppers, and spices, perfect for preserving summer's bounty and adding zest to sandwiches and meats. Suitable for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop enough green tomatoes and cabbage to have 1 gallon of each.
- Chop sweet peppers and onions to have 1 quart of each.
- Chop hot peppers to have 2 cups, more or less to taste.
- Mix all these vegetables with 1 scant cup canning salt and let set overnight.
- Next day, drain the mixture well.
- In a large granite or stainless steel pot, combine 5 pints vinegar, 3 cups sugar, chopped hot peppers, horseradish, cloves, and mustard seed.
- Add the chopped vegetables to the mixture and boil slowly for 30 minutes.
- Pack the hot chow chow into pint jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace.
- Seal the jars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier chow chow, increase the amount of hot peppers to suit your taste. If green tomatoes are not available, you can substitute them with unripe tomatillos for a different flavor profile. Be sure to use fresh vegetables for the best texture and taste. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of mustard seed to the boiling mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Fay's Chow Chow pairs beautifully with Peruvian Beef Roast or as a zesty condiment alongside grilled meats. It also complements sandwiches and can enhance the flavor of burgers. For a delightful twist, try serving it with a side of Candle Stick Salad. This chow chow can also be used in recipes like deviled eggs for an extra kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of chow chow in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks. To enjoy leftovers, serve them cold directly from the jar or mix them into salads or sandwiches. Reheat gently if desired, but it's often enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Fay'S Chow Chow contains roughly 950 calories, with 24g protein, 190g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (607% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (135% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (107% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1674mg per serving (73% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this chow chow recipe?
Yes, you can customize the recipe by adding or substituting vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or even zucchini. Just ensure that the overall volume remains similar to maintain the proper balance of flavors.
How long does chow chow last once canned?
When properly canned and sealed, chow chow can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. After opening, store it in the refrigerator and use it within 2-3 weeks for the best flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, Aunt Fay's Chow Chow is entirely plant-based and fits well within vegan recipes. It’s packed with vegetables and flavor, making it a great addition to any vegan meal or dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).