Chow Chow Creations: Delicious Recipes Featuring this Versatile Vegetable

Chow chow, also known as mirliton, vegetable pear, or christophene, is a versatile and often overlooked vegetable. Its mild flavor and crisp texture make it a fantastic addition to a wide range of dishes, from savory to sweet. This guide explores the wonderful world of chow chow, providing detailed recipes and preparation tips to help you incorporate this unique ingredient into your culinary repertoire.

## What is Chow Chow?

Chow chow is a type of squash belonging to the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae). It’s native to Central America, particularly Mexico, and has become naturalized in many other warm climates around the world. The fruit is typically pear-shaped, with a pale green skin, though varieties can range in color from white to dark green. The flesh is crisp and white, with a flavor that is often described as a blend of cucumber, zucchini, and apple. Unlike some squash varieties, both the fruit and the seeds of the chow chow are edible.

## Why Cook with Chow Chow?

There are several reasons to consider adding chow chow to your diet:

* **Mild Flavor:** Its subtle flavor makes it incredibly versatile. It won’t overpower other ingredients and readily absorbs flavors.
* **Crisp Texture:** Even when cooked, chow chow retains a pleasant crispness, adding textural interest to dishes.
* **Nutritious:** Chow chow is low in calories and carbohydrates but rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It’s a good source of vitamin C, folate, and potassium.
* **Affordable and Sustainable:** In areas where it grows well, chow chow is often readily available and inexpensive. The plant is also relatively easy to grow, making it a sustainable food source.
* **Versatile:** Chow chow can be used in a variety of ways: raw in salads, pickled, sautéed, baked, steamed, or added to soups and stews.

## Preparing Chow Chow

Before you start cooking, you’ll need to prepare the chow chow. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. **Wash the Chow Chow:** Rinse the chow chow thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. **Peel the Skin (Optional):** The skin of young, tender chow chow is edible, but the skin of more mature fruits can be tough. If the skin is thick or you prefer a smoother texture, peel it using a vegetable peeler. Peeling is recommended for most recipes.
3. **Cut in Half:** Cut the chow chow lengthwise in half. You’ll notice a single, large seed in the center of each half.
4. **Remove the Seed:** Use a spoon to scoop out the seed and any fibrous material surrounding it. The seed is also edible and can be cooked like a nut, but it is not usually included in recipes unless specifically stated.
5. **Slice, Dice, or Shred:** Depending on the recipe, slice, dice, or shred the chow chow into the desired shape and size.

**Dealing with the Sticky Sap:**

One common issue when preparing chow chow is the presence of a sticky, milky sap. This sap can be irritating to the skin for some people. Here are some tips to minimize its effects:

* **Wear Gloves:** If you have sensitive skin, wear gloves while handling chow chow.
* **Rinse Frequently:** Rinse the chow chow frequently with cold water as you are cutting it. This will help wash away the sap.
* **Soak in Water:** After cutting, soak the chow chow pieces in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. This will further reduce the sap.
* **Rub with Lemon:** Rubbing the cut surfaces of the chow chow with lemon juice can also help neutralize the sap.

## Delicious Chow Chow Recipes

Here are some delicious recipes featuring chow chow. These recipes range from simple side dishes to more elaborate main courses, showcasing the versatility of this unique vegetable.

### 1. Chow Chow Pickles

Pickled chow chow is a classic Southern condiment, perfect for adding a tangy and crunchy element to sandwiches, salads, or as a side dish. This recipe provides a simple and delicious way to make your own homemade chow chow pickles.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 cups shredded or diced chow chow
* 1 cup chopped onion
* 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (green or red)
* 1/4 cup salt
* 2 cups sugar
* 2 cups white vinegar
* 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
* 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
* 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Vegetables:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded or diced chow chow, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper. Sprinkle with salt and toss to combine.
2. **Let Rest:** Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This will help draw out excess moisture from the vegetables.
3. **Rinse and Drain:** Rinse the vegetables thoroughly under cold water to remove the salt. Drain well, pressing out any excess liquid.
4. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the sugar, white vinegar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric (if using).
5. **Bring to a Boil:** Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
6. **Add Vegetables:** Add the drained vegetables to the boiling vinegar mixture.
7. **Simmer:** Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
8. **Pack Jars:** Ladle the hot chow chow pickle mixture into sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Remove any air bubbles by running a spatula around the inside of the jar.
9. **Process (Optional):** For long-term storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Alternatively, store the jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
10. **Cool and Enjoy:** Let the jars cool completely before opening. The flavor will develop further as the pickles sit.

### 2. Chow Chow and Shrimp Stir-Fry

This stir-fry recipe combines the crispness of chow chow with the delicate flavor of shrimp, creating a light and flavorful meal.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 2 cups diced chow chow
* 1 cup sliced bell pepper (any color)
* 1/2 cup sliced onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Cooked rice, for serving
* Chopped green onions, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare Shrimp:** In a bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Toss to coat and set aside.
2. **Heat Oil:** Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
3. **Stir-Fry Shrimp:** Add the shrimp to the wok and stir-fry until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the wok and set aside.
4. **Stir-Fry Vegetables:** Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the diced chow chow, sliced bell pepper, and sliced onion. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. **Add Garlic and Ginger:** Add the minced garlic and ginger to the wok and stir-fry for another minute, until fragrant.
6. **Return Shrimp:** Return the cooked shrimp to the wok.
7. **Add Sauce:** In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and vegetables.
8. **Stir-Fry:** Stir-fry for another minute, until the sauce is heated through and the vegetables are evenly coated.
9. **Serve:** Serve the chow chow and shrimp stir-fry over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions.

### 3. Creamy Chow Chow Soup

This creamy soup is a comforting and flavorful way to enjoy chow chow. The soup is surprisingly light yet satisfying.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups diced chow chow
* 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Sauté Aromatics:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. **Add Chow Chow and Broth:** Add the diced chow chow and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chow chow is tender.
3. **Blend Soup:** Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth (be careful when blending hot liquids).
4. **Add Cream:** Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Heat Through:** Heat the soup through, but do not boil.
6. **Serve:** Serve the creamy chow chow soup hot. Garnish with fresh herbs.

### 4. Baked Chow Chow Casserole

This casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a potluck or family dinner. The chow chow adds a unique sweetness and texture to the casserole.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 cups diced chow chow
* 1 cup chopped onion
* 1 cup cooked ham or bacon, diced
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 1/4 cup bread crumbs
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the diced chow chow, chopped onion, diced ham or bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
3. **Transfer to Dish:** Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
4. **Prepare Topping:** In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the casserole.
5. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

### 5. Chow Chow Slaw

A refreshing twist on classic coleslaw, this recipe features chow chow for added crunch and a subtle sweetness.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 cups shredded chow chow
* 1 cup shredded carrots
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Vegetables:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded chow chow and shredded carrots.
2. **Make Dressing:** In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Combine:** Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to combine.
4. **Chill:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

### 6. Chow Chow and Chicken Salad

Adding chow chow to chicken salad gives it a refreshing crunch and a subtle sweetness, elevating this classic dish.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
* 1 cup diced chow chow
* 1/2 cup chopped celery
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Lettuce leaves or bread, for serving

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken, diced chow chow, chopped celery, and chopped red onion.
2. **Make Dressing:** In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Combine:** Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to combine.
4. **Chill:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Serve:** Serve the chow chow and chicken salad on lettuce leaves or in sandwiches.

### 7. Chow Chow Fritters

These fritters are a delicious and crispy snack or appetizer. The chow chow adds a unique flavor and texture to the fritters.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups shredded chow chow
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup cornmeal
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 egg, beaten
* Vegetable oil, for frying

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
2. **Add Wet Ingredients:** In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk and beaten egg. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
3. **Add Chow Chow:** Fold in the shredded chow chow.
4. **Heat Oil:** Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. **Fry Fritters:** Drop spoonfuls of the chow chow mixture into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. **Drain:** Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. **Serve:** Serve the chow chow fritters hot. They can be enjoyed plain or with a dipping sauce of your choice.

## Tips for Cooking with Chow Chow

* **Choose Firm Chow Chow:** Select chow chow fruits that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid those with blemishes or soft spots.
* **Store Properly:** Store chow chow in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Wrap it loosely in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Chow chow pairs well with a variety of flavors, including sweet, savory, and spicy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces.
* **Adjust Cooking Time:** The cooking time for chow chow will vary depending on its maturity and the recipe. Start with the recommended cooking time and adjust as needed.
* **Consider Texture:** Think about the texture you want in your dish. For a softer texture, cook the chow chow longer. For a crisper texture, cook it for a shorter time.

## Conclusion

Chow chow is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that deserves a place in your kitchen. With its mild flavor and crisp texture, it can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from pickles and stir-fries to soups and casseroles. By following the tips and recipes in this guide, you can unlock the full potential of this unique ingredient and create delicious and memorable meals. So, the next time you’re looking for something new to try, reach for a chow chow and discover the culinary possibilities!