Chow Chow – North American Pickled Relish

Description:
Chow Chow is a tangy, slightly sweet, and spicy pickled relish traditionally made in North America. Packed with chopped green tomatoes, onions, and peppers, this vibrant relish is perfect as a condiment for hot dogs, burgers, beans, or any dish that needs a zesty kick. Its robust flavor comes from a mix of spices like cinnamon, allspice, and cloves, making it a delightful addition to your pantry.

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Ingredients

• 12 ½ pounds green tomatoes, chopped
• 8 large onions, chopped
• 10 green bell peppers, chopped
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 6 green chile peppers, chopped
• 1 quart distilled white vinegar
• ½ cup prepared horseradish
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon ground allspice
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

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Instructions

Prep Time: 12 hours (including overnight resting)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~12.5 hours

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1. Prepare the Vegetables

• In a large bowl, combine the green tomatoes, onions, green bell peppers, and salt. Mix well to evenly coat.
• Cover the bowl and let the mixture stand overnight to draw out excess moisture.

2. Drain and Combine

• The next day, drain the liquid from the vegetable mixture thoroughly.
• Transfer the vegetables to a large pot. Add the chopped green chile peppers, vinegar, sugar, and prepared horseradish.

3. Spice it Up

• Place the cinnamon, allspice, and cloves in a piece of cheesecloth or a spice bag. Tie it tightly and add it to the pot.

4. Cook the Mixture

• Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the mixture is well-combined.

5. Jar and Seal

• Carefully remove the spice bag from the mixture.
• Pack the hot relish tightly into sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean and seal with sterilized lids.

6. Store and Wait

• Store the jars in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to fully develop.
• Once opened, refrigerate the jars. Unopened jars can be stored for up to a year.

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Tips for the Best Chow Chow

1. Chopping: Aim for evenly chopped vegetables for a consistent texture in your relish. A food processor can speed up the process.
2. Sterilizing Jars: Ensure your jars are sterilized to prevent spoilage. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes before filling.
3. Adjusting Spice: For a milder relish, reduce the amount of chile peppers or skip them altogether. For extra heat, add red pepper flakes.
4. Versatile Uses: Chow Chow pairs wonderfully with beans, cornbread, sandwiches, or even as a topping for grilled meats.
5. Flavor Development: The relish tastes better as it sits, so don’t skip the 2-week resting period for the best flavor.

Chow Chow is a flavorful way to preserve summer’s bounty and add a tangy kick to your meals year-round!