Classic Green Tomato Chow-Chow Relish: A Vintage Favorite

Chow-Chow: A Timeless Green Tomato Relish Recipe

Description

Indulge in a classic taste of tradition with this Chow-Chow recipe, a delightful green tomato relish that’s perfect for those who want to savor a bit of culinary history. This recipe, inspired by the Prudence Penny cookbook from 1938, has been updated for modern canning methods while retaining its vintage charm. Originally used to utilize the victory garden’s bounty before the frost set in, Chow-Chow offers a taste of both past and present, reflecting the resourceful spirit of wartime cooking. The home canning method ensures that every jar bursts with the flavors of summer and fall, making it a true pantry staple.

Recipe Category

Low Protein

Keywords

Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Canning, Stove Top, Under 4 Hours

Ingredients

• 4 cups green tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 6 cups finely chopped onions
• 1 cup finely chopped cucumber
• 1 cup finely chopped green pepper
• 1 cup finely chopped celery
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 18 green tomatoes, finely chopped
• 8 cucumbers, finely chopped
• 5 green onions, chopped
• 1 cup string beans, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1/2 cup kosher salt
• 1/2 cup canning salt
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Chop the Tomatoes: Begin by chopping the green tomatoes into small pieces. Combine them with kosher salt in a non-reactive container (such as glass, plastic, or enamel). Allow the mixture to stand overnight. This process helps draw out excess moisture from the tomatoes.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the tomatoes are sitting, chop the onions, cucumber, green pepper, and celery into fine pieces. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Relish

1. Drain and Combine: After the tomatoes have sat overnight, drain them thoroughly. Add the finely chopped onions, cucumber, green pepper, and celery to the drained tomatoes. Mix well.

2. Add Spices and Vinegar: In a non-reactive kettle or pot, combine the white vinegar, sugar, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, and ground mustard. Heat this mixture to boiling point, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar and spices dissolve completely.

3. Cook the Relish: Add the vegetable mixture to the boiling vinegar mixture. Stir to combine, then reduce the heat and simmer until the onions are tender and the flavors meld together. This should take about 20-30 minutes.

4. Prepare Jars: While the relish is simmering, prepare clean, hot jars. Ensure that the jars are hot to avoid cracking when filled with hot relish.

Step 3: Can the Relish

1. Pack the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot relish into the prepared jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace.

2. Seal and Process: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the rings until they are fingertip-tight.

3. Water Bath Processing: Process the jars in a hot water bath for 25 minutes. Ensure the water covers the jars by at least 1 inch. This step is crucial for safe canning and preservation.

4. Cool and Store: After processing, carefully remove the jars from the water bath and place them on a clean towel or cooling rack. Let them cool completely before storing.

Tips and Variations

• For an extra tangy kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce to the vinegar mixture.
• Experiment with different spices such as cumin or coriander for a unique flavor twist.
• Ensure all vegetables are finely chopped to maintain a consistent texture throughout the relish.

Enjoy this Chow-Chow as a delightful addition to sandwiches, burgers, or simply as a tangy topping for your favorite dishes. The flavors will deepen and improve over time, making it a wonderful treat to look forward to throughout the year. 🌿🥒🫑

Cooking Time

Happy canning! 🍅🌟