Receta Banh Mi Chow Chow, Antioxidant Extraordinaire!!!
Banh Mi Chow Chow, Antioxidant Extraordinaire!!!
This recipe idea came about when I had a bunch of radishes remaining after a meal one night. I wanted to utilize the phytochemical and sulforaphane* rich gems in a manner with ease of access and diversity.
I decided to create a pickled type condiment using most of the same ingredients as you would in a Banh Mi. I enjoy that particular combination and I totally enjoy foods and condiments that are sweet but sour, spicy and tangy at the same time.
This chow chow starts with toasting a bit of pickling spice in a dry non stick pan and proceeding with the other pickling ingredients; salt, sugar, water and vinegar. A pinch of hot pepper flakes bring on the heat. Lots of small cloves of smashed garlic add depth and character to this version, and the cilantro and sweet peppers bring brightness and more flavor.
This recipe is crazy versitile and addictive. It is not a sweet relish per se, but more on the lines of Saurkraut, with its acidic notes. During trials, I enjoyed this on a regular hot dog with chili, a cheddarwurst dog, and even on a corned beef sandwich, which was spectacular!!!
My tasters included three of my sisters and mom, they rated it from liked to loved! This recipe would pair excellently on a smoked brisket sandwich. I am pleased with the outcome of this recipe because I consumed more radishes in 2 days, than I had in my life thus far...Score one for team eat more veggies!
Recipe:
- 2 c. radish matchsticks
- 1 c. thinly sliced mini sweet peppers, yellow, orange and red
- 1 tbsp. fresh petite cilantro leaves
- 1 c. water, divided
- 1/2 c. white distilled vineger
- 1/4 c. seasoned rice vinegar
- 5 very small cloves of garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1 tbsp. sugar
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. pickling spice
- pinch of red pepper flakes
- scant pinch of celery seeds
In a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the pickling spice.
Add 1/2 c. water, SEASONED rice vinegar, garlic, sugar, salt, pepper flakes and celery seeds.
Turn heat to medium high.
Stirring constantly, bring up to a boil for about 2 minutes.
Remove from heat and let cool for several minutes.
Add remaining water and distilled vinegar at this point to aid in cooling. Stir.
Toss radishes, peppers and cilantro together.
Add veggies to an air tight jar or container with lid.
Once liquid is completely cooled, pour over veggies.
Turn vessel several times to distribute spices.
Let stand for about 10 minutes or let sit overnight in refrigerator for more developed flavors.
Use a fork to remove from container so it may drain and make sure you remove the larger pieces of pickling spice before each serving.
Makes about 1 quart.
*Sulforaphane is an antioxidant compound which is suggested to help stave off certain cancers like prostate, breast, ovarian and colon.