Discover the charm of an old-fashioned chow chow recipe! Packed with garden-fresh veggies, spices, and a tangy-sweet vinegar blend, this Southern classic is a must-try. Learn how to make and preserve this relish with step-by-step instructions. Perfect for pairing with beans, hot dogs, or cornbread!

Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 cups green tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups green bell peppers, diced
- 2 cups red bell peppers, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 cup salt
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 tbsp mustard seeds
- 1 tbsp celery seeds
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
Instructions:
- Prepare Vegetables: Wash, chop, and combine the green tomatoes, peppers, onions, and cabbage in a large bowl.
- Salt and Soak: Sprinkle salt over the vegetables. Let them sit for 4 hours to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and drain thoroughly.
- Cook the Chow Chow: In a large pot, combine the vegetables, sugar, vinegar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and cloves.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Can the Chow Chow: Sterilize jars and lids. Ladle the hot chow chow into jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Cool and Store: Let jars cool, ensuring seals are secure. Store in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Tips:
- Add heat with a diced jalapeño for a spicy twist.
- Use fresh, in-season vegetables for the best flavor.