Sweet & Spicy Southern Corn Relish (Chow Chow Style)
SWEET • TANGY • A LITTLE HEAT IN EVERY SPOONFUL
PERFECT FOR BBQ, BURGERS, HOT DOGS — OR STRAIGHT FROM THE JAR
⏱️ TIME & YIELD
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: About 4 cups
INGREDIENTS
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp celery seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a large saucepan, add corn, bell peppers, and onion.
- Pour in the vinegar, then add sugar, salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat while stirring.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or spice if needed.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Spoon into jars and refrigerate.
PRO TIP
For the best flavor, let the relish rest overnight in the fridge before serving.