Making your own chutney

More and more amateur cooks and experienced chefs are discovering the joys of making their own chutney. But why would you want to make your own chutney? The answer is simple: it allows you to create new, fresh flavors and experiment with different ingredient combinations. Moreover, homemade chutney is a healthier alternative to store-bought versions, since you control the amount of sugar and salt. Making your own chutney is therefore the perfect way to expand your culinary horizons.

What is chutney anyway?

Chutney is a versatile sauce that originated in Indian cuisine. It is typically made with fruit or vegetables, sugar or vinegar, and various herbs and spices. Chutney has a complex flavor that can be sweet, sour, spicy, or aromatic. Typical ingredients include mango , apple, pepper, tomato, vinegar, sugar, garlic, ginger, chili pepper, and coriander. It can be served with meat, fish, rice, bread, cheese, or as a dip for snacks.

How do you make chutney?

Making chutney is surprisingly simple and follows a basic routine: combine all the ingredients in a sauté pan, bring to a boil, and then simmer for several hours until you have a thick, aromatic sauce. It's important to simmer the chutney over low heat, stirring regularly to prevent burning. The cooking process can take up to several hours, depending on the type of fruit or vegetable you use.

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Ingredients

• Fruit: 500 g mangoes, apples, pears, or other fruit (peeled and chopped)
• Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, finely chopped
• Ginger: 1-2 cm fresh ginger, grated
• Vinegar: 150 ml (for example apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar)
• Sugar: 150 g (granulated sugar or brown sugar for a deeper flavour)
• Spices: 1 tsp mustard seeds, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of chili flakes
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Optional: Raisins or other dried fruit for extra texture

Preparation method

Prepare the ingredients

• Cut the fruit into small cubes and finely chop the onion, garlic, and ginger.

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Fry the onion and spices

• Heat a dash of oil in a large pan.
• Add the onion, garlic, and ginger and cook until soft and fragrant.
• Sprinkle in the spices (mustard seeds, cumin, cinnamon, chili flakes) and cook for another minute to release the flavors.

Add the fruit

• Place the chopped fruit in the pan and stir well.
• Add the vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir everything together.

Let it simmer

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 30-40 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The chutney should become thick and syrupy.

Taste and adjust

• Taste the chutney and adjust the seasoning. Add more sugar for sweetness, or a dash of vinegar for more acidity.

Filling pots

• Pour the hot chutney into sterilized glass jars and seal immediately.
• Let the jars cool and store them in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate.

How do you store chutney?

Chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let the chutney cool completely before refrigerating. Once opened, it's important to keep the chutney refrigerated and consume within a few weeks. Unopened jars of chutney can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a year.

Chutney as a gift

Homemade chutney can also be a unique and personal gift for friends and family. Package it in a pretty jar with a handwritten label, and you have a gift that's both delicious and personal.

Let's get started!

Making your own chutney is a fascinating culinary experience that fosters both creativity and flavor. It's an excellent way to discover new flavors and expand your knowledge of different ingredients and their flavor combinations. Now that you know everything about making this delicious sauce, it's time to get creative and create your own unique chutney!