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Homemade Chow Chow Relish - preserving food recipe
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Homemade Chow Chow Relish

Hot Southern Chow Chow Relish recipe is a great way of preserving food and making a delicious relish to enjoy as a side, on beans, hot dogs and more.
Prep Time1 hour
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8 Pints
Calories: 20kcal
Author: Julia Jordan

Ingredients

The Chow Chow Relish

  • pound Cabbage chopped (may use up to 3 pound cabbage)
  • 4 Medium Onions chopped
  • 5 Green Bell Peppers chopped
  • 4 Red Bell Peppers chopped
  • 4 Medium to Large Green Tomatoes seeded and chopped
  • 3 Jalapeno Peppers seeded and chopped
  • ½ cup Canning and Pickling Salt or use Kosher Salt
  • 5 cups Granulated White Sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of Prepared Mustard I used French's
  • 1 tablespoon Mustard Seed
  • 2 tablespoons Pickling Spice
  • ½ tablespoon Turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • 2 quarts White Vinegar 8 cups

Other

  • 8 Pint Size Sterilized Canning Jars with Lids and Bands
  • Canning Tools - jar handler funnel, air bubble remover, and a damp cloth
  • Water Bath or Steam Canner for processing See Notes

Instructions

  • Add the chopped vegetables to a large bowl (6 quarts) and cover with the salt. Gently mix then cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight.
  • Next, drain the liquid from the vegetables (do not rinse). Set aside.
  • In a large pot over medium heat; combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard, and spices then bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
  • Next, add the vegetables to the brine and return to a simmer then cook 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Pack the chow chow relish in sterile jars leaving ½ inch of head space; cover with lids and secure the lids with bands.
  • Process in a water bath or steam canner for 10 minutes.
  • Carefully transfer the hot jars to a towel lined countertop and allow to cool overnight. You should hear jar lids ping letting you know that they are properly sealed. (See Notes)

Notes

Read full post for more detailed explanation and variations for making chow chow relish.
If you do not wish to process the jars, keep them refrigerated.
Once you open a sealed jar, refrigerate.
If any jars do not seal properly, keep them refrigerated and use first.
Processed chow chow is shelf stable for a year. The chow chow relish will last up to 6 months refrigerated.
Always follow the latest safe practices for preserving foods.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Tablespoon | Calories: 20kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Sodium: 5mg | Sugar: 4g