Chow
A tangy, flavorful vegetable chow featuring green tomatoes, okra, squash, and cabbage, preserved with vinegar and spices, perfect for those who enjoy hearty, pickled vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up green tomatoes, onions, okra, squash, and cabbage.
- Add salt and let sit about 4 hours.
- Bring vinegar, turmeric, mustard seed, celery seed, and sugar to a boil.
- Add the vegetables to the vinegar mixture and bring to a boil again.
- Put the mixture into jars and seal.
- Process in hot water bath until the color changes, but not too long.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose firm green tomatoes and fresh okra to enhance the texture of your chow. You can substitute green tomatoes with unripe tomatillos if needed. Adjust the amount of salt based on your taste preference, and feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers for added flavor. Ensure your jars and lids are sterilized to prevent spoilage.
Serving Suggestions
Chow makes a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, and can be served alongside dishes like Kraut, Potatoes And Pork Ribs. Consider serving it with crusty bread or as a topping for a simple grain bowl. For a refreshing drink, try it with a Raspberry Mint Cooler to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of chow in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate any leftovers and consume within 1-2 weeks. To reheat, simply warm a portion in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. It can also be enjoyed cold as a salad topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chow contains roughly 830 calories, with 20g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (255% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (85% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg 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 types of vegetables in this chow recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or even green beans. Just be mindful of the cooking times to ensure everything is tender and well-cooked. Adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the new ingredients.
How long can I store the chow once it's processed?
Properly processed and sealed jars of chow can be stored for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, consume within 1-2 weeks if refrigerated. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
What if I want to make this recipe less salty?
To reduce the saltiness, you can cut down on the amount of salt used in the initial vegetable preparation. Additionally, consider rinsing the vegetables after they sit with salt for four hours to remove excess salt. Adjust the vinegar and spices to maintain flavor.
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).