Chow chow is a tangy vegetable relish with only 15 calories per tablespoon (15g). This easy-to-make pickle is perfect for sandwiches and burgers, but it's also a versatile topping for salads and veggies, a delicious addition to beans and rice, and a healthy alternative to high-calorie sauces.

Not only is chow chow a low-calorie condiment, but it's also packed with nutrients like fiber and vitamin C. Plus, it's a great way to preserve summer vegetables and enjoy their flavors year-round!

In this article, we'll dive into the history of chow chow, how to make it at home, and some creative ways to use it in your cooking.

Chow Chow: A Tangy Vegetable Relish

Chow chow is a tangy vegetable relish that typically includes a mix of chopped vegetables like cabbage, peppers, and onions, seasoned with spices like turmeric and mustard seeds, and preserved in a vinegar-based brine. It's a popular condiment in Eastern and Southern U.S. cuisine, with variations across regions and families. Some recipes include boiled peanuts or green tomatoes, while others add sugar for a sweeter taste. If you're a fan of pickles and relishes, chow chow is definitely worth trying!

Chow Chow: A Classic Southern Condiment

In Southern cuisine, chow chow is a classic condiment that's often served alongside barbecue, fried chicken, and other comfort foods. It's believed to have originated from the Pennsylvania Dutch and made its way down to the South through the Appalachia region. Today, it's a staple in many Southern households and restaurants. If you're looking for a taste of the South, add some chow chow to your plate!

Chow Chow: An Easy-to-Make Pickle

Making your own chow chow is surprisingly simple and can be customized to your taste preferences. Here's a basic recipe to get you started: - Finely chop 3 cups of vegetables (e.g. cabbage, onions, bell peppers, carrots, green tomatoes) - In a large pot, mix 1 cup of vinegar, 1 cup of water, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1 tbsp of salt. Add spices like mustard seeds, turmeric, and red pepper flakes to taste. Bring to a boil and add the chopped vegetables. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender but not mushy. Transfer the chow chow to sterilized jars and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Chow Chow: Perfect for Sandwiches and Burgers

Chow chow adds a burst of flavor to any sandwich or burger. Try it on a pulled pork sandwich, a turkey club, or a grilled cheese. It also pairs well with veggie burgers or black bean burgers. For a twist on the classic BLT, add chow chow to your bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich. The tangy relish cuts through the richness of the bacon and adds a nice crunch. Once you try chow chow on your sandwich or burger, you may never go back to plain condiments!

Chow Chow: A Versatile Topping for Salads and Veggies

Chow chow isn't just for sandwiches - it's also a great way to jazz up your salads and veggies. Try it on a spinach salad with bacon and hard-boiled eggs, or on a crisp coleslaw with shredded carrots and apples. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes taste even better with a dollop of chow chow on top. It adds a tangy, slightly sweet note to balance out the earthy flavors of the veggies. Don't be afraid to experiment with chow chow as a topping for all kinds of dishes!

Chow Chow: A Delicious Addition to Beans and Rice

If you're a fan of beans and rice, chow chow can take your dish to the next level. Try it with red beans and rice, black beans and quinoa, or even vegetarian bean chili. The acidity of the chow chow pairs well with the creaminess of the beans and the nuttiness of the rice. Plus, it adds some color and texture to the dish. Next time you're cooking up a pot of beans and rice, don't forget to add some chow chow!

Chow Chow: A Healthy Alternative to High-Calorie Sauces

Many condiments like ketchup, mayo, and BBQ sauce are high in calories, sugar, and sodium. If you're looking for a healthier option, chow chow is a great alternative. One tablespoon of chow chow has only 15 calories, compared to 20 calories in ketchup and 60 calories in mayo. Plus, it's made with whole vegetables and contains fiber and vitamins. You don't have to sacrifice flavor for health - chow chow delivers both!

Chow Chow: A Great Way to Preserve Summer Vegetables

If you have an abundance of summer vegetables like cabbage, peppers, and tomatoes, chow chow is a great way to use them up and preserve their flavors for later. Canning chow chow is a popular method for long-term storage. Just make sure to follow proper canning procedures to ensure safety and prevent spoilage. By making your own chow chow, you can enjoy the taste of summer all year round!

Chow Chow: A Timeless Recipe Passed Down Through Generations

Chow chow is a recipe that's been passed down through generations of families in the U.S. It's one of those dishes that varies from household to household and region to region, and each recipe comes with its own story and tradition. If you have a chow chow recipe that's been in your family for years, consider sharing it with others and keeping the tradition alive. Food has the power to bring people together and connect us to our past - chow chow is a delicious example of that.

Chow Chow: A Must-Try for Foodies Who Love Bold Flavors

If you're a foodie who loves to experiment with new flavors and cuisines, chow chow is a must-try condiment. Its tangy, slightly sweet, and spicy profile makes it a great addition to all kinds of dishes, from sandwiches to soups to stir-fries. And because there are so many variations across regions and households, you can customize your chow chow to your taste preferences. Don't be afraid to get creative with chow chow and discover new flavor combinations!