If you’re not familiar with Southern cuisine, you might be surprised by the unique charm of chow chow relish. This tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy condiment brings a burst of flavor to any dish and evokes fond memories of family gatherings and homemade delights. Originating from Southern kitchens, chow chow is a relish that combines a medley of vegetables with a zesty, spiced brine. It’s reminiscent of Italian giardiniera but with its own distinct Southern flair. This easy recipe simplifies the process, requiring no pressure canning and minimal chopping, making it perfect for a fresh batch that you can enjoy right away.

The base of this relish is a vibrant mix of shredded cabbage, bell peppers, and spicy peppers. I’ve chosen to use a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix to save time, and it adds a delightful crunch to the relish. The inclusion of both sweet and hot peppers provides a balanced heat, but you can adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences. The pink hue of the chow chow, due to the red cabbage in the slaw mix, is purely aesthetic, so feel free to choose a mix without red cabbage if you prefer a more traditional color.

To create the perfect balance of flavors, start by simmering the vinegar, sugar, and spices. This step helps the spices bloom, enriching the relish with deep, aromatic flavors. Once the spices have infused the brine, add the vegetables and let them simmer until tender. The final product is a vibrant, flavorful relish that’s ideal for topping hot dogs, sandwiches, or serving alongside savory dishes like BBQ and beans.

Tip: If you like your chow chow with an extra kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add an additional spicy pepper. For a milder version, stick with the bell peppers and omit the spicier varieties.

Conclusion: This Easy Southern Chow Chow is a fantastic introduction to a classic Southern relish that’s both delicious and versatile. Its sweet and tangy profile complements a wide range of dishes, making it a must-have condiment for any meal. Enjoy the taste of the South with this simple, homemade relish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Brine:

• 2 1/2 cups white vinegar
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/2 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1/2 tablespoon whole mustard seeds
• 1/2 tablespoon whole peppercorns
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seed
• 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/8 teaspoon allspice

For the Vegetables:

• 2 green tomatoes or tomatillos, chopped
• 1 orange bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 2 Cubanelle, banana, or jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 (12 oz) package shredded cabbage or slaw mix

Preparation

1. In a large pot, combine vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices. Bring to a low boil, stirring often, and cook for 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped vegetables to the pot and reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
3. Using a wide-mouth funnel, carefully pour the hot chow chow relish into sterilized 1-quart glass jars with sterilized lids.
4. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. Enjoy with sausage, on top of hot dogs, alongside chicken, or with beans or BBQ.