Grandmother Souder'S Chow Chow
Grandmother Souder's Chow Chow is a tangy, spiced relish with green tomatoes, cabbage, and aromatic spices, perfect for enhancing meats, sandwiches, or as a flavorful side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind the green tomatoes, cabbage, and onion (if preferred).
- Put the ground mixture into a large pan and cook until tender.
- Place the spices in a cloth and let cool.
- Add the spices to the mixture and bring to a boil.
- Pour into hot jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the spice mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the onion altogether. You can also substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar for a slightly fruitier taste. Make sure to grind the vegetables finely to achieve the desired texture.
Serving Suggestions
This chow chow pairs beautifully with Barbecue Coon as a tangy condiment, or you can serve it alongside meats and sandwiches for a zesty crunch. It also complements hearty dishes like cornbread from the South, adding a delightful contrast. Consider serving it as part of a charcuterie board for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chow chow in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to two months. To reheat, simply scoop out the desired amount and warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also enjoy it cold straight from the jar, making it a versatile condiment for many dishes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother Souder'S Chow Chow contains roughly 473 calories, with 8g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1036mg per serving (45% 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 ripe tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
While green tomatoes are traditional for chow chow, ripe tomatoes can be used for a sweeter flavor. However, keep in mind that the texture may differ, potentially becoming softer. If using ripe tomatoes, reduce the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
How long does this chow chow need to sit before serving?
For the best flavor, allow the chow chow to sit for at least 24 hours after preparation. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and develop, creating a more robust taste that enhances your dishes.
Can I modify the spices in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. For instance, if you enjoy a more robust flavor, consider increasing the allspice or adding garlic powder. Just remember that any modifications may alter the final flavor profile slightly.
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).