How do you make chow chow relish? This tangy and flavorful relish is a staple in many Southern households, often used as a condiment for meats, sandwiches, or as a side dish. Made with a combination of pickled vegetables and spices, chow chow relish brings a unique taste to any meal. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this delightful relish from scratch.
Chow chow relish is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of vegetables, such as cauliflower, cucumbers, and green tomatoes. The key to a successful chow chow relish lies in the balance of flavors, with the right amount of sweetness, acidity, and heat. Here’s a simple recipe to help you create your own batch of this iconic Southern relish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cauliflower, chopped
– 2 cups green tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups cucumbers, chopped
– 1 cup onions, chopped
– 1 cup red bell peppers, chopped
– 1 cup green bell peppers, chopped
– 1 cup celery, chopped
– 1 cup vinegar
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon mustard seed
– 1 teaspoon celery seed
– 1 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ginger powder
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine all the chopped vegetables, including the onions, bell peppers, and celery.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, mustard seed, celery seed, turmeric, garlic powder, and ginger powder. This mixture will be your brine.
3. Pour the brine over the vegetables in the pot and stir well to ensure that all the vegetables are coated evenly.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. After 30 minutes, remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool down.
6. Once cooled, transfer the mixture to a clean jar or container. Ensure that the jar is airtight to prevent any contamination.
7. Allow the chow chow relish to sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving. This will give the flavors time to meld together and develop.
Enjoy your homemade chow chow relish with your favorite meats, sandwiches, or as a side dish. This tangy and flavorful relish is sure to impress your friends and family. Remember, the key to a perfect chow chow relish is patience and the right balance of flavors. Happy cooking!