A tangy, sweet, and crunchy relish perfect for hot dogs, burgers, and more!

This simple relish is a great way to use up late-summer veggies. It keeps well in the fridge or can be canned for long-term storage.

Ingredients

6 large green tomatoes (about 3 lbs)
3 medium onions (yellow or white)
3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
1 large green bell pepper
½ medium cabbage (about 4 cups chopped)
¼ cup salt (sea salt, pickling salt, or kosher salt)
3 ½ cups white vinegar
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp yellow mustard seeds
1 tsp celery seed (or ground celery/celery flakes)

Equipment

Food processor (or knife for chopping)
Large bowl
Colander
Large pot
Jars with lids (for storage or canning)
Canning tools (optional, if preserving)

Instructions

1. Prep the Veggies

Remove stems and seeds from tomatoes, peppers, and cabbage.
Peel and quarter the onions.
Chop everything finely (use a food processor for ease).

2. Salt & Drain

Mix chopped veggies with ¼ cup salt in a large bowl.
Cover and refrigerate for 4+ hours (or overnight).
Drain in a colander (do not rinse).

3. Make the Brine

In a large pot, combine:
3 ½ cups vinegar
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp mustard seeds
1 tsp celery seed
Bring to a boil, then simmer 10 mins.

4. Cook the Relish

Add drained veggies to the brine.
Bring back to a boil, then simmer 10 mins, stirring often.

5. Jar & Store

Option 1: Refrigerate (4 months)

Let relish cool, then transfer to clean jars.
Store in the fridge.

Option 2: Can for Shelf-Stable Storage (1 year)

Fill sterilized jars, leaving ½-inch headspace.
Wipe rims, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 mins.
Cool completely before storing.

Tips for Success

✔ Best after a few days—flavors improve over time!
✔ Great on burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches.
✔ Adjust sugar/vinegar for more sweet or tangy taste.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 120
Carbs: 28g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 0g

Enjoy your homemade Chow Chow Relish! Love it?