When it comes to adding a kick to your meals, few ingredients can rival the heat and flavor of chow chow. This spicy condiment has been a staple in South Indian cuisine for centuries, and its versatility knows no bounds. Whether you’re looking to add a tangy zip to a meal or create a flavorful dip for snacking, chow chow is the perfect addition to any dish.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different ways to incorporate chow chow into your cooking repertoire. From classic chutneys and pickles to innovative stir-fries and curries, there’s something for every palate and occasion. So if you’re ready to take your meals to the next level with a dash of spice, read on to discover our top picks for chow chow recipes that will leave you feeling fiery and inspired!
Classic South Indian Chow Chow Chutney
This iconic chutney is a staple condiment in South Indian cuisine, adding depth and flavor to a variety of dishes. With its tangy and slightly sweet taste, it’s perfect for serving alongside dosas, idlis, vadas, and even as a dip for snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, cauliflower, potatoes, peas)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
– 1 tablespoon jaggery powder (or sugar)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard and fenugreek seeds; let them sizzle for a few seconds.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add salt, tamarind paste, and jaggery powder. Mix well.
4. Gradually add water to achieve desired consistency. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chutney thickens slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chow Chow Pickle with Mustard Seeds
This tangy and spicy pickle recipe is a perfect addition to any meal or snack. The mustard seeds add a nice crunch and depth of flavor, while the chilies bring a delightful kick.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 1 cup thinly sliced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced onions
– 1/4 cup mustard seeds
– 1/4 cup brown mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, and onions.
2. In a small saucepan, bring vinegar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in mustard seeds and brown mustard until well combined.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the vegetables and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 2 weeks before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chow Chow Coconut Curry
This flavorful curry combines the spiciness of chow chow with the richness of coconut milk, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. With its bold flavors and aromas, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chow chow (Indian-style relish)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chow chow and coconut milk; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chow Chow Stir-Fry with Garlic and Chili
This stir-fry recipe combines the classic Chinese-inspired flavors of chow chow, garlic, and chili flakes for a spicy and savory dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chow chow (Chinese pickled vegetables)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the chow chow and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Sprinkle the chili flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir-fry for an additional minute, ensuring the flavors are well combined.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chow Chow Sambar with Lentils
This classic Tamil Nadu dish is a staple in many South Indian households, made with a combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices. This recipe is a simplified version that combines the comfort of chana dal (split chickpeas) with the flavors of sambar, a popular accompaniment to dosas, idlis, and vadas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chana dal
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon sambar powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and pressure cook the lentils with 2 cups of water until they are mushy.
3. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, and diced potato until they are tender.
4. Add the cooked lentils, sambar powder, turmeric, and salt to the pan. Mix well.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chow Chow Kootu with Moong Dal
This popular South Indian recipe is a flavorful and nutritious side dish made with moong dal, chayote squash, and an array of spices. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a perfect accompaniment to rice or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split green gram (moong dal)
– 2 cups water
– 2 medium-sized chayotes, peeled and diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the moong dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the moong dal and cook it with 2 cups of fresh water until it’s mushy and creamy.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, onion, and garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced chayotes and cooked moong dal to the pan. Stir well to combine.
5. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chow Chow Poriyal with Fresh Grated Coconut
This recipe combines the richness of grated coconut with the vibrant flavors of chow chow, a popular vegetable dish from South India. This poriyal is perfect as a side dish or as a topping for rice or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated fresh coconut
– 1 cup chow chow (a mix of cabbage, carrots, and beans)
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the grated coconut and stir well.
4. Add the chow chow mixture and mix everything together.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chow Chow Soup with Turmeric and Black Pepper
This flavorful soup combines the warmth of turmeric with the spicy kick of black pepper, perfect for a cozy and nourishing meal. With its creamy texture and vibrant yellow color, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, green beans, corn)
– 1 cup Chow Chow pickle relish
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the mixed vegetables in butter or oil until tender.
2. Add the Chow Chow pickle relish, vegetable broth, turmeric, and black pepper. Stir well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chow Chow Thoran with Curry Leaves
This flavorful side dish is a popular accompaniment to many South Indian meals. The addition of curry leaves gives it a unique and aromatic twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chayote (or white pumpkin), peeled, deseeded, and diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon curry leaves, chopped
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or coconut)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin seeds, and curry leaves; sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the chayote and salt; stir well.
5. Cook covered, stirring occasionally, until the chayote is tender (about 10-12 minutes).
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chow Chow Bajji (Fritters) with Gram Flour
These crispy and flavorful fritters are a popular South Indian snack, perfect for any time of the day. With a combination of gram flour, chilies, and spices, they’re sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gram flour (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped green chilies
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup coriander leaves, chopped
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together gram flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add the chopped chilies, onion, and coriander leaves to the flour mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Chow Chow Masala Curry with Onions and Tomatoes
This classic Indian-inspired curry combines the flavors of chilies, spices, and tangy tomatoes to create a hearty and aromatic dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water or chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
2. Add onions and cook until they turn golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add diced tomatoes, canned tomatoes, and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot over rice, naan, or with some roti.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chow Chow Raita with Yogurt and Cumin
A refreshing and flavorful condiment that combines the cooling properties of yogurt with the warm, earthy taste of cumin. This recipe is perfect for accompanying spicy dishes or as a dip for vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, cumin powder, and salt until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro and grated ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep time), plus chilling time
Chow Chow Rice with Lemon and Mustard Seeds
Chow Chow Rice is a flavorful Indian-inspired side dish that’s perfect for accompanying grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a base for bowls. This variation adds a bright and tangy twist with the addition of lemon juice and mustard seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the drained rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with oil mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the lemon juice, mustard seeds, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chow Chow Chips with a Spicy Twist
Elevate your snack game with these addictive Chow Chow Chips infused with a spicy kick! This easy recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet and heat to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bags of potato chips (your favorite flavor)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture over the potato chips in a large bowl; toss until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; spread the chip mixture out in a single layer.
5. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking and crispy texture.
6. Remove from oven; sprinkle with salt to taste. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Chow Chow and Carrot Stir-Fry with Peanuts
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the crunch of peanuts, sweetness of carrots, and savory goodness of chow chow.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chow chow (pickled vegetables)
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup peanuts
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced carrots and cook for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Add the chow chow, peanuts, and salt. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes until the carrots are tender-crisp and the chow chow is well combined with the other ingredients.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chow Chow Payasam with Jaggery and Coconut Milk
This traditional Indian dessert is a perfect blend of sweet and creamy, made with jaggery, coconut milk, and a variety of fruits. With its velvety texture and unique flavor, this payasam is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated jaggery
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup chopped chow-chow (a mix of dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, and raisins)
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Combine jaggery, coconut milk, and chow-chow in a pan. Heat over medium flame until the jaggery dissolves.
2. Add cardamom powder and mix well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until the payasam thickens slightly.
4. Stir in ghee or oil and water. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chow Chow and Potato Curry with Coriander
This recipe combines the flavors of India with a twist of spicy kick from chow chow, a popular Korean chili paste. This curry is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup coriander powder
– 2 teaspoons cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup chow chow paste
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the potatoes, chow chow paste, and water or broth. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chow Chow and Prawns Stir-Fry with Curry Powder
A flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines the crunch of chow chow (Chinese cabbage) with succulent prawns, all infused with the warmth of curry powder. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of chow chow, chopped
– 1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the prawns and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped chow chow and cook until slightly softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the curry powder, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 30 seconds to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Return the prawns to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 spicy chow chow recipes! From classic South Indian chutneys and pickles, to curries, stir-fries, and even soups, this collection has something for every occasion. Discover how to make mouth-watering dishes like chow chow coconut curry, spicy chow chow pickle with mustard seeds, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a flavorful meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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