Green Tomato Relish(Chow Chow)
A tangy, spicy green tomato relish with peppers and spices, perfect as a condiment or on sandwiches, offering bold flavors and a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the diced green tomatoes, bell peppers, hot peppers, and onions with salt and let stand overnight.
- Drain the salted mixture and add vinegar, cinnamon, allspice, whole cloves, dry mustard, bay leaves, and sugar.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 15 minutes.
- Can the relish following the manufacturer's instructions.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier relish, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. If you're short on green tomatoes, you can substitute half with unripe red tomatoes. Adjust the heat by varying the number of hot peppers used. Make sure to let the mixture sit overnight with salt; this step helps to draw out excess moisture for a better texture.
Serving Suggestions
This relish is excellent as a condiment for grilled meats or sandwiches, particularly with burgers or hot dogs. It pairs beautifully with Karl'S Bread for a delightful brunch spread. Add it to cheese platters or serve alongside fried dishes for a zesty kick. It also complements the flavors of Southern dishes and can be enjoyed as part of a charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Store the canned green tomato relish in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within two weeks for the best flavor. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Enjoy it straight from the jar or warmed to enhance its flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Tomato Relish(Chow Chow) contains roughly 1702 calories, with 37g protein, 374g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (330% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (264% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2026mg per serving (88% 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 give this relish its distinct tartness, you can use slightly unripe red tomatoes in a pinch. However, the flavor will differ, and the relish may be sweeter. Be sure to adjust the sugar accordingly to maintain balance.
How long does the relish last once canned?
Properly canned green tomato relish can last up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place. After opening, keep it refrigerated and try to consume it within two weeks for optimal freshness and flavor.
What are some good dishes to serve with this relish?
The green tomato relish is versatile and pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos. It can also be served alongside Southern comfort foods, adding a zesty contrast to rich dishes like fried chicken or BBQ. Try it with your favorite American recipes for an extra flavor boost.
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).