Southern-style Vegetable Chow Chow is a tangy, slightly sweet relish that's the perfect condiment to spice up your meals. This recipe brings a vibrant mix of fresh veggies and a blend of spices that captures the essence of Southern cuisine.
Cabbage is the main base, providing a subtle crunch and soaking up all those delicious spices. Green tomatoes add a tart, crisp texture that pairs perfectly with the sweetness from the sugar. Onions, both pungent and sweet, round out the flavor profile. The duo of green and red bell peppers not only adds color but also a mild sweetness. Yellow mustard seeds are the key to bringing that distinctive chow chow taste, while apple cider vinegar adds the tangy backbone.
The combination of sugar, salt, and turmeric balances the flavors and provides a warm, earthy color. The celery seeds and dry mustard give an aromatic depth, and ground ginger adds a gentle kick of spice.
This chow chow is a fantastic match for grilled meats. Try it atop a burger or alongside a platter of smoked sausages. It's also delightful with a simple plate of beans and cornbread, offering a zesty contrast to those hearty flavors.
Start by prepping your vegetables. Chop the cabbage into small, bite-sized pieces. Do the same with the green tomatoes. Dice the onions and both bell peppers into small, uniform cubes. Combine all these veggies in a large mixing bowl. This is where the magic begins — the blend of colors is so beautiful, it’s like a rainbow in a bowl.
Next, grab a large pot and mix together the mustard seeds, sugar, vinegar, salt, turmeric, celery seeds, dry mustard, and ground ginger. This concoction will be the heart of your chow chow, so let it come to a boil to meld all those flavors together.
Once boiling, carefully add your vibrant veggie mix to the pot. Stir everything together to ensure the veggies are well-coated in the spicy, sweet brine. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring every so often. This simmering allows the flavors to infuse into the vegetables.
After simmering, remove the pot from heat. Let the chow chow cool down a bit before transferring it into sterilized jars. This step is crucial for proper preservation. And there you have it, a batch of Southern-style Vegetable Chow Chow ready to elevate your meals.
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