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Elizabeth's Green Tomato Chow Chow Recipe

This award-winning Green Tomato Chow Chow recipe, passed down from a beloved (ex-)mother-in-law, is guaranteed to become a family favorite! Bursting with fresh green tomato flavor and perfectly balanced spices, this recipe yields countless jars of delicious, tangy goodness. Perfect for canning and enjoying all year long, this chow chow is a must-try for both experienced canners and those new to the art of preserving. Get ready to savor the taste of summer!

Prep Time 60 mins
Cook Time 1620 mins
Calories 1877.6 kcal
Protein 25g
Rating 3.6 (11 Reviews)
Elizabeth's Green Tomato Chow Chow

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Elizabeth's Green Tomato Chow Chow

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How to Make Elizabeth's Green Tomato Chow Chow

  1. Soak 8 pounds of green tomatoes and 2 large onions, chopped, in 4 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of salt overnight.
  2. Drain the tomatoes and onions thoroughly in the morning.
  3. Place 2 tablespoons yellow mustard seed, 1 tablespoon celery seed, 1 tablespoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes in a cheesecloth bag; tie securely and crush gently with a rolling pin.
  4. Combine the drained tomatoes and onions in a large pot with 6 cups white vinegar and 4 cups of water. Add the spice bag.
  5. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
  6. Stir in 2 cups granulated sugar and 1 cup brown sugar. Simmer for another 30 minutes.
  7. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 tablespoon dry mustard, and 1 teaspoon turmeric.
  8. Gradually whisk in a 1/2 cup of the simmering chow chow liquid to create a smooth paste. Stir the paste into the main pot.
  9. Add 2 bell peppers, finely chopped.
  10. Simmer for 1 to 2 hours, or until the chow chow has thickened considerably. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
  11. Carefully ladle the hot chow chow into sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Seal according to the manufacturer's instructions. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust processing time based on your altitude and jar size).

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

793 g

Sugar

1676g

Fat

1g

Carbs

155g

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Appetizers & Snacks Sweets & Sides Side Dishes The Americas American Southern Vegetarian Gluten Free Summer Recipes

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Time To Make Course Preparation Jams And Preserves Condiments Etc 1 Day Or More