Green Tomato Chow-Chow

Chow-chow (Wikipedia) is a pickled relish that can be used as a condiment for vegetables, beans, or your favorite plant-based burgers and dogs. It can be used immediately or canned in sterilized canning jars, which deepens its flavor over time.

Makes: 2 cups

Active Time: 30 min

Total Time: 7 hr 10 min

Ingredients:

1 1/4 lb. green (un-ripened) tomatoes, cored and finely diced (3 c.)

2/3 lb. yellow onion, finely diced (1 c.)

1/4 c. finely diced green or red bell pepper

1 T. kosher salt

1/4 t. brown mustard seed

1/4 t. coriander seeds

3 allspice berries

3 black peppercorns

1 bay leaf

1 whole clove

1/2 small cinnamon stick

Pinch ground cardamom

Pinch powdered ginger

2/3 c. white vinegar

1/2 t.. molasses

5 T. sugar

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, onions, pepper, and salt. Cover with a plate and let stand at room temperature for at least 6 hours and up to overnight.

2. Set a fine mesh strainer over the sink and drain the tomato mixture, gently pressing to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the liquid.

3. In a small bowl, combine the mustard seeds, coriander, allspice berries, black peppercorns, bay leaf, clove, cinnamon stick, cardamom, and ginger. Transfer the mixture to a sachet made from a double layer of cheesecloth and tie to seal.

4. Transfer the tomato mixture to a medium saucepan. Add the vinegar, sugars, and spice sachet and bring to a boil over medium heat. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, then cook, stirring occasionally, until the chow-chow has reduced to a fragrant, dry relish, 40-50 minutes. Chill, then serve or refrigerate in a covered jar for up to one month.