The full moon hangs heavy in the sky, casting an ethereal glow on the backyard barbecue. The air is thick with the scent of hickory smoke and sizzling meat, but something's missing... a vibrant, tangy counterpoint to the richness of the barbecue. That's where Full Moon BBQ Chow Chow comes in. This isn't your grandma's chow chow (though she'd probably love it too!), it's a bolder, spicier, more intensely flavorful version, perfectly designed to complement smoky meats and add a delightful zing to any summer gathering.
What is Chow Chow?
Before we dive into the Full Moon BBQ variation, let's establish the basics. Chow chow, a staple of Southern cuisine, is a type of relish made from a mixture of chopped vegetables, vinegar, and spices. Traditionally, it features a combination of green tomatoes, onions, peppers, and cabbage. However, the beauty of chow chow lies in its versatility; recipes vary widely depending on regional preferences and family traditions.
Full Moon BBQ Chow Chow: A Recipe for Starry Nights
This recipe takes the classic chow chow and infuses it with smoky, spicy notes that perfectly complement barbecue. The addition of chipotle peppers adds a subtle smoky heat, while the brown sugar provides a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the vinegar.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chopped green tomatoes
- 2 cups chopped green bell peppers
- 1 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from the can (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
Instructions:
- Combine: In a large bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegars, brown sugar, olive oil, salt, pepper, mustard, celery seed, minced chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce (if using).
- Marinate: Pour the wet ingredients over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook: Transfer the mixture to a large saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chow chow has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Canning (Optional): If you wish to can your chow chow for longer storage, follow proper canning procedures using sterilized jars and lids. Always consult a reliable canning guide for safe and accurate instructions.
- Serve: Serve the Full Moon BBQ Chow Chow with your favorite barbecue, grilled meats, or as a vibrant side dish. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations for your Full Moon BBQ Chow Chow:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to control the heat level. Start with less and add more to your liking.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or even jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
- Sweet and Spicy Balance: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to balance the sweetness and acidity to your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: This chow chow is delicious with pulled pork, brisket, ribs, chicken, and even grilled fish.
This Full Moon BBQ Chow Chow recipe is more than just a side dish; it's an experience. It's the culmination of fresh, vibrant ingredients transformed into a tangy, spicy, and utterly delicious condiment that elevates any barbecue to a truly memorable feast. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and prepare for a culinary adventure under the full moon's watchful gaze!
