Quick Chow Chow
A tangy, savory vegetable salad with a hint of sourness, perfect as a side dish or snack, combining green beans, corn, and cabbage for a crunchy, flavorful bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the canned green beans and whole kernel corn.
- Pour all the drained vegetables into a large bowl.
- Add the finely chopped cabbage and mix well.
- Add salt to taste and mix again.
- Cover the bowl tightly, ensuring the fluid covers the vegetables.
- Let it sit out in a warm place until it starts to sour.
- Refrigerate until all is used.
- Fry as much as needed in bacon drippings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the mix. If you're out of bacon drippings, olive oil or butter can serve as a suitable substitute for frying. To enhance flavor, a splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar can be added while mixing the vegetables. This dish can also be served cold as a salad, perfect for summer gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Quick Chow Chow pairs beautifully with hot tea or Russian for a delightful meal. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a side at barbecues. For a complete meal, consider serving it with cornbread or over rice. You can also top it with Pickled Onion And Cucumber Slices for an added crunch and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. This will help retain the flavors while keeping the dish moist. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Chow Chow contains roughly 28 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C.
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 fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute fresh green beans and corn for the canned versions. Just make sure to cook them until tender before mixing with the cabbage. This will give your Chow Chow a fresher taste and a bit more crunch.
How long does it take for the chow chow to sour?
Let the mixture sit for about 24 to 48 hours in a warm place. The souring process depends on the temperature and humidity of your environment. Make sure to check it regularly to achieve your desired level of sourness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe can be easily made vegan by using vegetable oil instead of bacon drippings for frying. The base of vegetables makes it naturally vegan-friendly, and it can be a delicious side dish for any meal.
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).