Chow Chow

📜 Collection: UK2 | ✍️ Attribution: Unknown | 📂 Category: Preserves A traditional southern-style chow chow relish featuring a crisp medley of green tomatoes, cabbage, and peppers. This heritage preserve offers the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
45 mins30 minsNone4-5 quarts

🔪 Key Equipment

  • Large preserving pan
  • Spice bag or cheesecloth
  • Canning jars

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
1.5 qtGreen TomatoesChopped
1.5 qtCabbage3/4 large head, chopped
1.5 qtOnions6 large, chopped
1/2 qtSweet Peppers2 extra large or 3, chopped
4Hot PeppersMinced
1 TbspSaltPlus extra for drawing moisture if needed
As neededSugarEqual parts with water and vinegar
As neededWaterEqual parts with sugar and vinegar
1.5 qtVinegarEqual parts with sugar and water
2 1/2Mixed SpicesWhole, tied in a spice bag

Instructions

Step 1: Combine and Simmer

  1. Mix the 1.5 qt green tomatoes, 1.5 qt cabbage, 1.5 qt onions, 1/2 qt sweet peppers, 4 hot peppers, and 1 Tbsp salt together in a large preserving pan.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Spices

  1. Cover the vegetable mixture with equal parts of sugar, water, and vinegar (using about 1 1/2 quarts of vinegar).
  2. Place the 2 1/2 whole mixed spices into a cloth bag, tie securely, and submerge in the pot with the mixture.

Step 3: Cook and Jar

  1. Cook the mixture over medium heat until the vegetables are tender and well-infused.
  2. Remove the spice bag when done, and pack the hot relish into sterilized jars until tender and fragrant.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Store processed jars in a cool, dark place for several weeks to let the flavors mature before serving.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card