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Glass jar filled with colorful chow chow relish

Chow Chow Recipe: How to Make This Classic Relish at Home

Chow chow relish is a flavorful blend of chopped vegetables, vinegar, sugar, and spices, perfect for preserving garden-fresh produce. This sweet and tangy Southern condiment is ideal for topping beans, cornbread, hot dogs, and more. Whether you like it mild or spicy, this versatile relish is a delicious addition to your pantry.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 pint-sized jars 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups cabbage, finely chopped
  • 2 cups green tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup bell peppers (red or green), finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups white vinegar
  • 1 cup sugar (or natural sweetener of your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • ½ teaspoon celery seeds
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Finely chop the cabbage, green tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers. Place them in a large bowl, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 4–6 hours (or overnight) in the refrigerator. This step helps draw out excess moisture.
  2. Rinse and Drain: After salting, rinse the vegetables thoroughly under cold water to remove the salt. Drain well to ensure the vegetables retain their crunch.
  3. Cook the Relish: In a large pot, combine the vegetables, vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, turmeric, celery seeds, and optional spices. Stir well to combine.
  4. Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.
  5. Taste and Adjust: Taste the relish and adjust the sweetness, acidity, or seasoning to your preference.
  6. Canning and Storing: While still hot, ladle the chow chow into sterilized jars, leaving ½ inch of headspace. Seal the jars tightly and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Allow jars to cool, then store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 1–2 months.

Notes

  • Low-Sugar Option: Replace sugar with stevia, monk fruit, or honey for a healthier alternative.
  • Vegetable Swaps: You can add or substitute vegetables like carrots, green beans, or cauliflower for a unique twist.
  • Let It Cure: For the best flavor, allow the canned chow chow to sit for 1–2 weeks before eating.
  • Author: Joël
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Canning
  • Cuisine: Southern / American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 25 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g

Keywords: chow chow recipe, southern chow chow relish, sweet and tangy relish, pickled vegetables, homemade relish recipe