Chau-Chau
Chau-Chau is a vibrant, tangy relish blending fresh vegetables and spices, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and colorful accompaniments to hearty meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the cauliflower (or celery or cabbage) fine.
- Chop the small onions, cucumbers, and red peppers fine.
- Combine green tomatoes, small onions, cauliflower (or substitutes), cucumbers, and red peppers in a large bowl.
- Let the mixture stand overnight in a brine made with 1 pound of salt dissolved in 5 quarts of water.
- In a separate bowl, mix cider vinegar, celery seed, ground mustard, turmeric, brown sugar, and flour to prepare the pickling solution.
- Drain the vegetables from the brine and combine with the pickling solution.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens and flavors meld, stirring frequently.
- Pour into sterilized jars, seal, and store in a cool place.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the cucumbers with zucchini or adding some grated ginger to the pickling solution. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can include some diced jalapeños or switch out some of the red peppers for spicier varieties. Make sure to chop the vegetables uniformly for even pickling.
Serving Suggestions
Chau-Chau makes a vibrant side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or sandwiches. Serve it as a topping for tacos or alongside a fresh salad. It also complements dishes like Party Candy Caramel Corn for a sweet-savory combination at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a month. To reheat, simply warm the desired amount in a saucepan over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chau-Chau contains roughly 4479 calories, with 147g protein, 774g carbohydrates, and 128g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (296% of the Daily Value), protein (295% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (230% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2980mg per serving (130% 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 recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or even radishes. Just remember that the brining process works best with firm vegetables, so choose ones that can hold their texture during pickling.
How long does Chau-Chau need to sit before eating?
For the best flavor, let the Chau-Chau sit for at least a week after canning. This allows the flavors to meld and develop fully. However, it can be enjoyed sooner if needed, just know that the taste will deepen with time.
Is this recipe suitable for canning?
Yes, this recipe is designed for canning. Ensure that you sterilize your jars properly before filling them with the hot Chau-Chau mixture. Follow safe canning practices to preserve your pickles and enjoy them throughout the year.
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).