Chow Chow Relish: A Canning Delight
Chow chow relish is a vibrant and tangy condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. This traditional relish, made with a mix of chopped vegetables, is perfect for canning and enjoying throughout the year. Here's a recipe for a delicious chow chow relish that's sure to become a family favorite:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chopped green tomatoes (about 6 medium)
- 2 cups chopped green bell peppers (about 4)
- 2 cups chopped red bell peppers (about 4)
- 1 cup chopped onion (about 1 large)
- 1 cup chopped celery (about 2 stalks)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
Preparing the Vegetables:
- Wash and chop all vegetables into small pieces.
- Combine the chopped vegetables, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Mix well and let sit for 2-3 hours. This process helps draw out excess moisture from the vegetables.
Making the Relish:
- Drain: Drain the vegetables in a colander, discarding the liquid.
- Combine: In a large saucepan, combine the drained vegetables, both vinegars, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric powder, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the relish thickens and vegetables are tender.
- Process: While the relish simmers, sterilize your canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
Canning the Relish:
- Fill Jars: Use a ladle to fill the sterilized jars with the hot chow chow relish, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth.
- Seal: Place lids on the jars and screw on the bands.
- Process: Place the filled jars in a boiling water bath canner, ensuring the water covers the jars by at least 1 inch. Process for 15 minutes.
- Cool: Remove the jars from the canner and allow them to cool completely. You should hear a popping sound as the lids seal.
Storing:
- Store the sealed jars of chow chow relish in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Enjoy!
Chow chow relish is a versatile condiment that can be enjoyed on sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, or as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. It's also delicious as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.
Tips:
- For a spicier relish, add a teaspoon or two of red pepper flakes.
- You can adjust the amount of sugar to taste.
- For a more traditional chow chow, use a mixture of white and red vinegar.
- If you don't have turmeric powder, you can omit it.
Enjoy your homemade chow chow relish!
