Samantha'S Chow-Chow
A tangy and flavorful homemade chow-chow relish featuring a medley of fresh vegetables, perfect as a condiment or side for a variety of meals, suited for those who enjoy pickled flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop cabbage, green peppers, green tomatoes, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions; mix together in a large bowl.
- Put pickle spices in a clean piece of cloth; tie to form a spice bag.
- Pour vinegar and water over the vegetable mixture.
- Add the spice bag into the mixture.
- Cook until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer hot chow-chow into pint jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a pinch of turmeric or red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture. If you prefer a sweeter chow-chow, increase the sugar to 3 cups. You can also substitute the cucumbers with zucchini for a different texture. Ensure your jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
Serving Suggestions
Samantha's Chow-Chow makes a delightful condiment for grilled meats and sandwiches, adding a tangy crunch. It pairs beautifully with Baked Chicken Extraordinaire or as a topping for hot dogs. Serve it alongside crackers or as part of a charcuterie board for a refreshing kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chow-chow in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, seal in sterilized jars and process them in a water bath canner. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Samantha'S Chow-Chow contains roughly 642 calories, with 17g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (470% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (98% of the Daily Value), and iron (65% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 625mg per serving (27% 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 vegetables for this chow-chow?
Absolutely! While this recipe features cabbage, peppers, and tomatoes, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower. Just make sure to maintain the overall balance of flavors and textures.
How long can chow-chow be stored in jars?
When properly sealed and processed, chow-chow can last up to a year in a cool, dark pantry. However, once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within two weeks for optimal flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for canning?
Yes, this chow-chow is suitable for canning. Ensure you follow proper canning techniques, including sterilizing jars and using a water bath to seal them. This will help preserve the chow-chow and enhance its flavor over time.
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).