Recipe: Lucky 32's Pickled Mirliton Chow Chow

In today's Specialty of the House column, the featured recipe is Lucky 32's Bayou Shrimp Cakes with Voodoo Glaze. At the restaurant, the dish is garnished with a spoonful of Pickled Mirliton Chow Chow. Here's the recipe for that finishing touch:

Lucky 32's Pickled Mirliton Chow Chow

2 medium chayote squash, peeled, seeded and cut into medium dice
2 red onions, diced
1 quart water
1 quart apple cider vinegar
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup sliced jalapeno peppers
3 tablespoons salt
2 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons black pepper
1 tablespoon cayenne
1 tablespoon thyme leaves
4 bay leaves

Place the squash and onions in a large heat-proof storage container.

In a sauce pot, bring the remaining ingredients to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Pour through a strainer over the squash and onions. Let stand uncovered until cooled to room temperature.

Once cooled, cover and refrigerate.

Makes about 1 quart.