Grandmama'S Chow Chow
Grandmama's Chow Chow is a tangy, spicy relish bursting with flavors from peppers, onions, and green tomatoes, perfect for adding zest to meats and sandwiches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix tomatoes, onions, peppers, cabbage, and salt together and let stand overnight.
- Next day, drain out all possible juice.
- Mix the sugar, vinegar, and spices (put spices in a small cloth bag).
- Pour the mixture over the tomato mixture.
- Cook until well done, about 30 to 45 minutes or until thick.
- Put in jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder chow chow, reduce the number of hot peppers used or substitute with sweet peppers. You can also add diced carrots or celery for extra texture. If you prefer a thicker consistency, cook it longer to reduce more liquid. Using a small cloth bag for the pickle seasoning helps to infuse flavors without leaving residue in the final dish.
Serving Suggestions
This chow chow makes a great condiment for sandwiches or as a side dish with grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Stewed Tomatoes And Okra for a hearty meal. Consider serving it alongside a cheese platter or on top of crackers for a flavorful appetizer. It's also delightful when added to salads or mixed into grain bowls.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chow chow in airtight jars in the refrigerator. It can typically last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider canning the chow chow using proper canning techniques. To serve it again, just spoon it out cold or bring it back to a gentle heat on the stove before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmama'S Chow Chow contains roughly 878 calories, with 28g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (1092% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (152% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (90% 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 different types of peppers?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various pepper types based on your heat preference. Bell peppers or banana peppers can be used for a milder taste, while jalapeños or serranos can add more heat. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste.
How can I ensure my chow chow stays crunchy?
To maintain crunchiness, avoid overcooking the vegetables. Cooking just until thickened is ideal. Additionally, letting the mixture sit overnight before cooking helps to preserve texture. Drain excess liquid well before adding the vinegar mixture.
What can I substitute for green tomatoes?
If green tomatoes are hard to find, you can substitute with unripe tomatoes or tomatillos for a similar tangy flavor. Just be mindful that the texture may vary slightly, but it should still work well in this recipe.
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).