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Zesty Chow Chow

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Zesty Chow Chow is a bold, tangy Southern relish made with cabbage, green tomatoes, peppers, onions, and a sweet-vinegar brine. This easy chow chow recipe is perfect for preserving garden veggies and adds a punch of flavor to everything from beans and hot dogs to BBQ and sandwiches. A colorful, shelf-stable condiment that’s perfect for canning or freezing!

Ingredients

  • 1 small cabbage, chopped
  • 6–8 green or red tomatoes, chopped
  • 6 medium bell peppers, chopped
  • 6 large onions, chopped
  • 2 hot peppers, chopped
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 5 cups white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup salt or pickling salt

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, add chopped cabbage, tomatoes, bell peppers, hot peppers, and onions.
  2. Pour in vinegar, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  3. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender but not mushy.
  4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. Ladle the mixture into sterilized pint jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Wipe rims, apply lids and rings.
  6. Optional: Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure shelf stability.

Notes

  • Mix red and green tomatoes and colorful bell peppers for a brighter presentation.
  • Add an extra hot pepper or red pepper flakes for more heat.
  • Apple cider vinegar gives a sweeter, rounded flavor.
  • Reduce sugar for a more tangy, less sweet relish.
  • Add celery seed or mustard seed for extra flavor depth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/zesty-chow-chow/