What Is Chow Chow and How Do You Make It? (2024)

Chow chow was born out of an effort to preserve the bounty of summer produce growing in the backyard, including tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and more. As you'll see, chow chow can look very different depending on where you are. Get acquainted with this tangy vegetable relish that can be used on everything from hotdogs to beans. Plus, learn how to make chow chow at home.

What Is Chow Chow?

Not to be confused with the dog breed, chow chow is a type of pickled relish made popular in North America. Its ingredients can vary depending on what region you're in, but more on that below. Chow chow can be mild or hot, depending on the spices used.

Some chow chow recipes consist primarily of chopped green tomatoes, cabbage, onion, and peppers while others can contain carrots, beans, cauliflower, or peas. Regardless of which ones you choose, the ingredients are all pickled in a canning jar and served cold as a condiment.

The origin of chow chow remains somewhat of a debate. Some say that it found its way to the Southern United States during the expulsion of the Acadian people from Nova Scotia to their settlement in Louisiana. This has led some to suggest that the name "chow chow" comes from the French word "chou" for cabbage. Others claim it's connected to the relish of the Chinese rail workers in the 1800s.

The truth is, it's hard to be sure exactly where this tangy vegetable relish came from. But one thing's for sure, it's taken on a variety of forms across North America. And most importantly, it's a great way to preserve summer produce for enjoyment that lasts well beyond the summer season.

Northern vs. Southern Chow Chow

There are two primary variations of chow chow: the Northern variety (primarily found in Pennsylvania Amish communities) and the Southern variety. Both relishes are prepared the same way, but with different ingredients.

Southern chow chow is typically made with just chopped bell peppers, green tomatoes, sweet onions, and cabbage. Northern chow chow on the other hand can consist of everything from cauliflower, carrots, beans, onions, bell peppers, and more.

In addition to the two varieties found in the U.S., there is also a Canadian version found primarily in the Maritime provinces, which is made almost entirely from green tomatoes and onions.

How to Eat Chow Chow

You can use chow chow as you would any other kind of pickled relish. Use it as a topping for hot dogs, hamburgers, or barbeque. It's also commonly used to give a little spunk to a bowl of beans or a side of cornbread. You can even make a delicious appetizer by adding a little atop a cracker with cream cheese spread.

How to Make Chow Chow

Learn how to make chow chow based on this recipe from SLT. This version is similar to the classic southern variety, but the ingredients can be easily adjusted to fit your taste.

Ingredients:

  • 12 ½ pounds green tomatoes, chopped
  • 8 large onions, chopped,
  • 10 green bell peppers, chopped
  • 3 teaspoons salt
  • 6 chopped green chile peppers
  • 1 quart distilled white vinegar
  • ½ cup prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon ground allspice
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

Directions:

  1. Combine tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and salt in a large bowl. Let stand overnight.
  2. Drain the mixture and add hot chile peppers, vinegar, sugar, and horseradish.
  3. Wrap the cinnamon, allspice, and cloves in a cheesecloth or porous bag, and add to the mixture.
  4. Boil the mixture for 15 minutes, or until tender.
  5. Pack tightly in sterilized jars and seal.
  6. Store the jars in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks to allow the flavors to mingle. Store unopened for up to a year. Refrigerate after opening.

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What Is Chow Chow and How Do You Make It? (2024)

FAQs

What Is Chow Chow and How Do You Make It? ›

Some chow chow recipes consist primarily of chopped green tomatoes, cabbage, onion, and peppers while others can contain carrots, beans, cauliflower, or peas. Regardless of which ones you choose, the ingredients are all pickled in a canning jar and served cold as a condiment.

How is a chow chow made? ›

Some chow chow recipes consist primarily of chopped green tomatoes, cabbage, onion, and peppers while others can contain carrots, beans, cauliflower, or peas. Regardless of which ones you choose, the ingredients are all pickled in a canning jar and served cold as a condiment.

What does chow chow taste like? ›

Simply put, chow chow is a relish made using late summer produce. Green tomatoes were the inspiration for this chow chow, so they are the centerpiece for the recipe. The flavor definitely skews on the side of tangy versus sweet in order to keep that fresh garden taste.

What is Amish Chow Chow made of? ›

Northern chow chow is a melange of produce, often including cauliflower, beans, onions, both red and green tomato, carrots and so on, while the main ingredient in Southern chow chow is shredded cabbage, a vinegar-spiked cousin to coleslaw.

Is chow chow made from green tomatoes? ›

The traditional Atlantic Canadian recipe for green tomato chow is made using only green tomatoes, white onion, mustard seed, cloves, and white vinegar.

Is a Chow Chow a natural breed? ›

The Chow Chow is an East Asian dog breed and one of the first to emerge after the domestication of the dog. It is believed that they were the models for the stone lion statues which guard Buddhist temples.

What is a Chow Chow mixed with? ›

Chabrador (Chow Chow x Labrador Retriever)

This cute canine is a mix between a Lab and a chow chow.

Why is chow chow expensive? ›

Around 10,000 Chows are registered in the U.S. every year. Although this breed is not very rare, the cost can be higher if your Chow Chow has a champion bloodline. Their blue tongues are another reason for this breed's high price. The price also depends if you are planning to buy a black, red, fawn, or white Chow.

Is chow chow expensive dog? ›

Chow Chow. The Chow Chow is a spitz-type of dog breed originally from northern China. They can cost you around Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000.

What are the pros and cons of a chow chow? ›

3 Pros and Cons of Owning a Chow Chow
Pros!Cons!
Good watchdogs: Despite their tiny size and classification, these dogs make great watchdogs and are acutely aware of their surroundings.Aggressive: These dogs can display aggressive behaviors sometimes and can get overly suspicious of strangers.
2 more rows
Feb 10, 2023

What are the 2 types of chow chow? ›

The chow chow comes in two coat types. The rough coat is straight and off-standing. The smooth coat is hard and smooth. Both coat types have wooly undercoats.

What is Tennessee Chow Chow? ›

Their famous Tennessee Chow-Chow is a mixture of green tomatoes, cabbage, bell peppers, onions, spices and apple cider vinegar.

Are there two types of chow chow? ›

Chow Chows have two separate coat types: rough and smooth. Both are densely double-coated. But the rough coat's fur is straight and coarse with a thick, wooly undercoat. The smooth coat is, well, smooth and has an undercoat but no obvious "ruff" on the legs or tail.

Is Piccalilli the same as Chow Chow? ›

What is the difference between chow chow vs. piccalilli? Chow chow and piccalilli are often mistaken for each other, yet although similar, they are slightly different. Picalilli relish simply has more vegetables in it than chow chow relish—that's the main difference between these two relishes.

What is the other name of Chow Chow vegetable? ›

Chayote (Sechium edule), also known as mirliton and choko, is an edible plant belonging to the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae.

Are fried green tomatoes a real thing? ›

Fried green tomatoes are a culinary dish usually found in the Southern United States, made from unripe (green) tomatoes coated with cornmeal and fried.

Is there inbreeding in Chow Chow? ›

The coefficient of inbreeding statistic for the Chow Chow is 6.6%, which is only a touch higher than the ideal of 6.25% or lower. This means that there is a relatively high degree of genetic diversity across the breed as a whole, and that the breed is not subject to a particularly high degree of inbreeding.

What is the oldest dog breed still alive? ›

Basenji. The Basenji, known for its cat-like attitude, is the oldest dog breed in the world according to genetic evidence, despite conflicting sources that recognize other breeds. This breed still retains traits from its ancestors.

Why is it called a Chow Chow? ›

The name Chow Chow may derive from an English term used in the 19th century to refer to cargo from East Asia; however, some sources note that it may derive from the Chinese word for “edible.” The Chow Chow is built compactly, with a large head and a thick coat that forms a dense ruff about the neck.

What is Amish chow chow? ›

Amish Chow Chow is a relish that pairs with everything. Its tangy vinegar marinade jazzes up veggies like cauliflower and green and yellow wax beans to the point that second helpings will be in order.

What is special about Chow Chow? ›

Owners say Chows are the cleanest of dogs: They housebreak easily, have little doggy odor, and are known to be as fastidious as cats. Well-socialized Chows are never fierce or intractable, but always refined and dignified. They are aloof with strangers and eternally loyal to loved ones.

Why does Chow Chow have blue tongue? ›

The Chow Chow's tongue may appear blue, purple, grayish, or black, depending on the dog. The reason for its color is simply due to the presence of pigmented cells, similar to the same types of cells that determine the color of human skin.

What's the most expensive dog? ›

Most Expensive Dog Breeds to Buy
  • Portuguese Water Dog $2,200.
  • Chow Chow $2,250.
  • Afghan Hound $2,250.
  • Brussels Griffon $2,300.
  • Saluki $2,400.
  • Leonberger $2,400.
  • Greater Swiss Mountain Dog $2,500.
  • English Bulldog $2,500.
Feb 21, 2023

What is the downside of Chow Chows? ›

They can be quite headstrong. They are not easily trainable. If not well-bred, they may develop an unstable temperament and start getting aggressive, hyperactive, and have excessive barking. Due to their territorial behavior, Chows can be aggressive or suspicious of strangers and other dogs.

What is the cutest dog ever? ›

Cutest Dog Breeds
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. ...
  • Pug. ...
  • Pomeranian. ...
  • English Bulldog. ...
  • Bichon Frise. ...
  • Siberian Husky. ...
  • American Eskimo. ...
  • Cairn Terrier. The spirited little Cairn Terrier has a compact body and broad head with a bushy topknot and eyebrows.

What dog cost $1 million dollars? ›

The Tibetan mastiff is considered the most expensive dog, as it has sold for thousands and even millions.

Which dog breed is the smartest? ›

1. Border collie. According to The Intelligence of Dogs, which ranks 131 dog breeds in terms of their relative intelligence, the border collie is the smartest dog breed known to man.

Are Chows good family dogs? ›

Chows make good family pets but aren't known for their playfulness or patience so they are better suited to families without boisterous younger children. As well as being physically strong, Chow Chows can be quite strong-willed and stubborn so they are not the best choice for novice owners.

Will a Chow Chow protect its owner? ›

Chow chows are devoted to and protective of their families. To make them good family pets, they need plenty of early socialization including exposure to children. Chow chows do best with training to clarify their position in the family or they can become dominant.

Why is my Chow Chow aggressive? ›

Chow Chows were originally bred to hunt and as guard dogs. Due to this background, Chow Chows are highly prone to aggression and can be very territorial of their home and their family. While your pup may be friendly with you, she is more likely to become aggressive with other dogs and unfamiliar visitors.

Why is Chow Chow a restricted breed? ›

This breed, known for its scowling expression, black tongue and thick coat, likes to hunt, herd, protect and pull. AnimalPlanet.com says the breed's need to protect its human family and other pets can make the chow chow aggressive toward outside dogs.

Do all Chow Chow have blue tongue? ›

Chow Chows are not born with blue tongues. In fact, Chow Chow puppies have pink tongues, just like other breeds. The blue-black color develops as their eyes open. “Sometimes the pigment change is slower, but the tongue pigment must always be complete by the time the puppy is about six months old,” says Banghart.

Do all Chow Chow have black tongues? ›

If you've ever seen a Chow Chow, then you've probably noticed its unique blue-black tongue. Chow Chows, as well as Chinese Shar-Peis, actually require a blue-black tongue in its breed standard. And, believe it or not, these breeds aren't the only ones who may display a tongue color other than pink.

What is a golden chow? ›

Golden Retriever. Chow Chow. Golden Chow. Gentle, smart, and protective, the Golden Chow Retriever is a hybrid breed developed with the combination of the Golden Retriever and the Chow Chow. This energetic hybrid is known for his perception and devotion.

What is Chow Chow southern food? ›

Chowchow is a pickled relish dish that was used to preserve summer vegetables for later in the year. Recipes for the relish are highly regional, and tend to be generational recipes, passed down through families. While no one batch is the same, a lot of Southern chowchows use tomatoes, cabbage, bell peppers, and onions.

What is Southern mild Chow Chow? ›

Mrs. Renfro's Mild Chow Chow, at a mild heat level, is a southern-style cabbage relish. Made in Fort Worth, Texas. Cabbage, Water, Distilled Vinegar, Sugar, Onions, Sweet Red Peppers, Salt, Spices, Guar Gum, Dextrose, Natural & Artificial Flavors, Turmeric, Alum, & Artificial Colors FD&C Yellow No.

What is the difference between rough coat and smooth coat Chow Chow? ›

The rough variety is coarse-textured, stand-off, not excessive in length, and the undercoat is soft and woolly. There is thicker hair around the neck and the backs of the thighs. This rough coat needs grooming daily. The smooth coat is shorter and needs grooming two or three times a week.

What is the original breed of Chow Chow? ›

Dog breeds from East Asia, including the Chow Chow, originated from Chinese indigenous dogs very early in time. The genetic bottleneck leading to Chow Chows and migrations with other populations are found to be quite mild.

Why are there so many Chow Chow mixes? ›

Chow Chow ancestry is more common than you think

As a result of the breed's popularity decades ago, we see small amounts of Chow Chow ancestry in many mixed-breed dogs today. “Your dog's smile can clue you in,” says Dr. Adam Boyko. “Chow mixes often have black spots on their tongues.”

Is Chow Chow like giardiniera? ›

Whether it's the Italian Giardiniera or the French spelling of Jardiniere, it's a delicious mix of vegetables that get their kick from soaking in a vinegar-mustard seed brine. My Mom used to make Chow-Chow, which is similar, using vinegar and yellow mustard.

Are chow and lo mein the same? ›

In English, chow mein means fried noodles and lo mein translates to tossed or stirred noodles. Because both dishes are variations of noodles, the main difference in chow mein and lo mein lies in how the noodles are prepared.

What is Chow Chow called in English? ›

Chayote Squash, popularly known as Chow-Chow in India is a vegetable belonging to the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae.

How do you eat a chow chow? ›

DIRECTIONS:
  1. With cold roast beef.
  2. On top of steamed veggies.
  3. On mashed potatoes.
  4. A southern favorite - on top of your favorite type of cooked beans! (pinto, white beans, or red beans)
  5. On a Po' Boy sandwich.
  6. Any kind of salad! ...
  7. Top a baked potato with chili & chow chow!
  8. Use on a BBQ pulled pork sandwich or a sloppy joe.

What is the English name for chuchu vegetable? ›

chayote, (Sechium edule), also called vegetable pear, mirliton, or chocho, perennial vine of the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae), cultivated for its edible fruits. Chayote is native to the New World tropics and is also grown as an annual plant in temperate climates.

Should I peel chow chow? ›

1. Raw chow chow may be added to salads or salsas, and it is often marinated with lemon or lime juice. 3. The fruit does not need to be peeled and can be eaten raw in salads.

Why do we fry green tomatoes and not red? ›

There is a very good reason to use these tomatoes, rather than fully ripe tomatoes, for frying: Unripe tomatoes are firmer and drier than ripe ones, so they have less of a tendency to disintegrate when you put them in hot oil.

What state is famous for Fried Green Tomatoes? ›

Every day seems like a celebration of fried green tomatoes when you're dining in South Carolina. Served hot from the skillet, these crispy, spicy slices star as appetizers and in tantalizing entrees at restaurants across the state.

Why am I craving Fried Green Tomatoes? ›

An insatiable craving for tomatoes or tomato products is known as tomatophagia. Tomatophagia may sometimes be associated with nutritional deficiencies, especially in pregnant women. It may also occur in people with iron deficiency anemia, even though raw tomatoes are low in iron.

Why is Chow Chow tongue blue? ›

The Chow Chow's tongue may appear blue, purple, grayish, or black, depending on the dog. The reason for its color is simply due to the presence of pigmented cells, similar to the same types of cells that determine the color of human skin.

Is Chow Chow made from cabbage? ›

Chow chow is a sweet and tangy relish made with a variety of vegetables. It traditionally includes chopped cabbage, green tomatoes, bell peppers and onion. It comes in many varieties depending on the region and the cook's preference.

Why was the Chow Chow bred? ›

The chow chow breed's original job was as a guard dog. Other early jobs include hunting, herding, and notably, sled-pulling. Records from Marco Polo describe Chinese people using dog sleds drawn by chow chows! In addition to their thick coat, chow chows are also suitable for these jobs because of their size.

Why is the Chow Chow so aggressive? ›

Some breeds of dogs have been known to be more aggressive than others. Chows are one such breed. This is because they were bred specifically for protection and hunting, which often leads to aggression in certain situations with other animals or people.

Is it safe to have a Chow Chow? ›

A Chow Chow can be a great choice for a family dog; it is extremely loyal and protective of its human pack. However, a tendency toward overprotection and a reputation for being an aggressive breed has also placed this fluffy-coated pup on the insurance blacklist.

How much does Chow Chow cost? ›

If you are looking for a Chow Chow dog to buy, it could cost you around $1200-$2000, depending on the type of breeder you choose. Around 10,000 Chows are registered in the U.S. every year. Although this breed is not very rare, the cost can be higher if your Chow Chow has a champion bloodline.

What is a dog born to two different breeds called? ›

A crossbred dog usually comes from parents that are from two distinctive breeds, or from several generations of dogs that were originally made up from two breeds. Crossbreeds often have a mix of their parent's traits and characteristics, so it's important to think about how this mix could affect the puppies.

Are there two types of Chow Chow? ›

Chow Chows have two separate coat types: rough and smooth. Both are densely double-coated. But the rough coat's fur is straight and coarse with a thick, wooly undercoat. The smooth coat is, well, smooth and has an undercoat but no obvious "ruff" on the legs or tail.

Why is it called a chow chow? ›

The name Chow Chow may derive from an English term used in the 19th century to refer to cargo from East Asia; however, some sources note that it may derive from the Chinese word for “edible.” The Chow Chow is built compactly, with a large head and a thick coat that forms a dense ruff about the neck.

Why is Chow Chow called that? ›

Chowchow's modern name is believed to have originated with the French-speaking Acadian people of Canada who settled in Louisiana. The word "chow" is suspected to stem from the French word "chou" for cabbage. The dish's origins are widely debated, however.

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