Chow Chow(Delicious With Meats And Beans!)
A tangy, crunchy relish with cabbage, peppers, and tomatoes, perfect as a condiment or side for meats and beans, offering bold flavors and crisp texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the cabbage and sprinkle with 4 teaspoons of salt. Work with your hands, mixing and squeezing until a bit of juice is released.
- Add the chopped green peppers and green tomatoes to the cabbage mixture.
- Work the mixture a bit more, then add the chopped onions.
- Make a syrup by combining vinegar, water, 4 teaspoons salt, and sugar.
- Put the chopped ingredients into the cold syrup and bring to a boil, ensuring a good boil in the center of the pot.
- Cook for about 5 minutes after the boil begins.
- Transfer the hot mixture into sterilized jars from the center of the pot.
- Do not cook too long or the syrup will cook away. Seal the jars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of mustard seeds or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the syrup. You can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a milder taste. If you're low on fresh ingredients, jarred or canned green tomatoes will work in a pinch, but ensure to drain any excess liquid.
Serving Suggestions
Chow chow pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or pork and complements hearty bean dishes. Serve it alongside cornbread or as a zesty topping for tacos. For an extra twist, try it with a drizzle of Thousand And One Dressing for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chow chow in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can enjoy it cold as a refreshing side dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chow Chow(Delicious With Meats And Beans!) contains roughly 195 calories, with 4g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (101% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1053mg per serving (46% 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 make chow chow in advance?
Yes, chow chow can be made in advance and actually improves in flavor after sitting for a few days. Just ensure you store it properly in sterilized jars and keep it refrigerated.
What can I substitute if I don't have green tomatoes?
If green tomatoes are unavailable, you can use unripe regular tomatoes or even a mix of bell peppers to maintain the crunch and flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything remains crisp.
Is chow chow suitable for canning?
Yes, chow chow is suitable for canning. Make sure to follow proper canning procedures, including sterilizing jars and processing them in a boiling water bath to ensure safety and longevity.
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).