Add Choko Pickles to your next lunch

Just when you thought that Wendy’s Crafts range of homemade jams and relishes was complete, there is another addition. Choko Pickles. Where there is an abundant crop, Wendy swings into action. What else would you do when a neighbour’s Choko vine is laden with more fruit than they have seen for years. Chokos Pickles are ideal to make now and use later as a perfect accompaniment for cold meats and cheese. Pale green in colour, a gentle texture and a fresh taste, Choko Pickles are a welcome change to tomato relish or tomato chutney when serving sliced cold chicken or pork. If you like to cook, here is a recipe or you can buy it from Wendy’s market stall.

5 Interesting things about ChokosFresh choko

  • Originally cultivated between Southern Mexico and Hondouras (wikipedia)
  • Also known as Chayote
  • Grow on vines
  • Grown commercially around Brisbane
  • Can be used like zucchinis – casserole, stir fry, roasted

 

Choko Pickle Recipe

If you would like to try making your own Choko Pickles this very reliable recipe comes from “Womens’ Weekly Food”. It is very similar to the one that Wendy uses.

Ingredients

  • 1 kilogram (2 pounds) chokoes, peeled, cored, chopped finely
  • 2 large brown onions (400g), chopped finely
  • 1/4 cup (70g) coarse cooking salt
  • 2 teaspoon curry powder
  • 2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 2 cup (440g) white sugar
  • 2 cup (500ml) white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornflour
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar, extra

Method

  1. Combine choko, onion and salt in large non-metallic bowl; stand 2 hours. Rinse and drain well.
  2. Combine vegetables with curry powder, mustard powder, sugar and vinegar in large saucepan; stir over high heat, without boiling, until sugar dissolves. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, about 45 minutes or until pickle is thick.
  3. Blend cornflour with extra vinegar in small bowl until smooth; stir into pickle. Simmer, stirring, about 5 minutes or until mixture boils and thickens.
  4. Spoon hot pickle into hot sterilised jars; seal immediately. Label and date jars when cold

ServingJar of Choko pickles with fresh choko

Allow jars to “rest” for 3 weeks, then serve with cold chicken, turkey or pork. Choko Pickles are also very nice with cheese.

Where to buy Wendy’s Choko Pickles?

Wendy and her stall of homemade jam, marmalade and relishes can be found at selected Markets. Check the Facebook Page for updates