Chow Chow Spoons

The Story Behind this Blog

Being from the South, Silver is a very big part of my life. It doesn't have anything to do with wealth. Although those with more money - old money, tend to have more of it. New money tend not to spend their money on Silver. They do not have the appreciation for the warmth of the metal, the beauty of the patina, the story it tells of the generations past who have used it. A true southern girl comes of age when she chooses her silver pattern, long before she chooses her mate. If she is smart, she chooses that of her mother, grandmother, or favorite great aunt who in their benevolence will pass their silver on to her. It is the pieces in those sets, the pieces on our tables, along with the pieces we find in the corners of the displays in antique stores that prompted me to start this blog. They are beautiful, they are odd, but what are they, and what in the hell do you do with them?

Friday, May 28, 2010

Chow Chow Spoons

Chow Chow is a relish used as a condiment. Although the origins are unknown, it has been used in the southern United States for over 200 years. Chow Chow is not pureed and is served in its chunky consistency. It is served cold with hot foods and usually spice to the main dish. Unlike British Piccalilli, which usually includes cauliflower and turmeric among its ingredients, and Chutney, which typically includes fruit, Chow Chow is made from green tomatoes, cabbage, mustard seed, and some type of hot pepper. And to no one's surprise, the silver companies saw a need for servings pieces. Featured here are Chow Chow spoons, which generally feature a long handle and elongated bowl to reach into the jar of Chow Chow..

Shown in Baronial by Frank Smith (6 inches)