Best Seasonal Chutney Recipes

SEASONAL CRANBERRY CHUTNEY

Steps:

• Cut ginger into paper thin slices, stack, cut into thin slivers.
• Combine slivers, garlic, vinegar, sugar, pepper,cinnamon and allspice into a heavy pot.
• Simmer for about 20 minutes (may take longer) until there're about 4 tablespoons liquid left (excluding the solids).
• Add cranberry sauce and salt.
• Mix, bring to a simmer.
• It will be a bit lumpy.
• Add nuts, orange, peel and lemon juice.
• Simmer slowly.
• It will take 2 to 3 hours to thicken.
• Cool, put in a jar and refrigerate.
• This will keep for several days and freezes well.

SEASONAL CHUTNEY

Steps:

• Make your spice bag by tying up the spices in an 8-inch square of cheesecloth. Put this into a preserving pan with all the other ingredients and bring slowly to a boil, stirring occasionally. This will take awhile, as there will be lots in the pan, but don't hurry it.
• Let the mixture simmer, uncovered, for 2 1/2 to 3 hours - maybe even a bit more. You do not have to hover, hawk-eyed, over the pan, but do keep an eye on it and stir regularly to ensure it doesn't burn. It's ready when it is glossy, thick, rich in color and well reduced - but with the chunks of fruit and vegetables still clearly discernible. It is thick enough if, when you draw a wooden spoon through it, the chutney parts to reveal the bottom of the pan for a few seconds.
• Pot the chutney while warm in sterilized jars (see p. 21). Pack down with the back of a spoon to remove any air pockets. Seal with vinegar-proof lids (see p. 22). Store in a cool, dark place for a couple of months to mature before using. Use within 2 years.
• For each variation, use 2 1/2 cups of light brown sugar, 2 1/2 cups of cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, a pinch of salt, and 2 teaspoons of dried chile flakes (if using) and follow the basic method.