Vegetable Chutney

INTRODUCTION

Vegetable chutney is a flavorful condiment that has roots in Indian cuisine, where it is often served alongside various dishes. This dish is not only versatile but also easy to make at home. Chutney can enhance the taste of many meals, adding a hot and tangy flavor. Making vegetable chutney at home allows you to use fresh ingredients, customize the spice level, and create a delicious addition to your dining experience.

Vegetable chutney is especially great because you can use different vegetables based on what you have. It’s a perfect way to use up extra veggies in your kitchen. If you enjoy a bit of spice in your food and like to experiment with flavors, this chutney recipe will be a delightful addition to your cooking repertoire.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this vegetable chutney recipe because it is simple yet full of flavor. The combination of fresh vegetables creates a rich taste that brightens up any meal. It’s also very forgiving, meaning you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have available.

This recipe is great for anyone who wants to add a homemade touch to their meals. It’s perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or simply as a spread on your favorite sandwiches. Plus, it’s healthy and can be stored for months. Once you make it, you can enjoy it for weeks to come, making it a great choice for meal prep.

HOW TO MAKE Vegetable Chutney

Making vegetable chutney is easy. Below, you will find all the steps and tips you need to create this delicious condiment.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

You will need some simple kitchen tools to make vegetable chutney. Here’s what you should gather before you start:

• A large heavy-based pan
• A sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sterilized jars for storage

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make vegetable chutney, gather these fresh ingredients:

• 900g tomatoes
• 3 red peppers
• 1 large aubergine
• 1 green pepper
• 700g onions
• 4 cloves garlic
• 350g granulated sugar
• 300ml white wine vinegar or distilled malt vinegar
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 2 tsp cayenne pepper

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Follow these steps to make delicious vegetable chutney.

1. First, prepare the tomatoes. Prick them with a sharp knife. Place them in a bowl and cover them with boiling water. After a few seconds, drain the water and cover the tomatoes with cold water. This will help you remove the skins easily.
2. Next, chop the tomatoes and aubergine into small pieces. Also, seed and chop the red and green peppers.
3. In a large heavy-based pan, combine the chopped vegetables with the sliced onions and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Cover the pan with a lid, lower the heat, and let it simmer for about one hour. Stir occasionally until the vegetables are tender.
5. After that, add the sugar, vinegar, salt, coriander seeds, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pan. Stir the mixture and bring it to a boil. Keep stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
6. Continue boiling for about 30 minutes. You want the mixture to reach a chunky chutney consistency. Stir often to prevent it from catching on the bottom of the pan.
7. Finally, ladle the hot chutney into sterilized jars. Cover them with paper jam covers and seal while hot. Allow the chutney to mature for at least a month in a cool dark place.

 

 

HOW TO SERVE Vegetable Chutney

Once your vegetable chutney is ready, you can serve it in many ways. It can be used as a dip for crackers or bread, a spread for sandwiches, or a side dish with meat and fish. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats and can even be served alongside cheese for a fun appetizer. The possibilities are endless!

STORAGE & FREEZING: Vegetable Chutney

Vegetable chutney can be stored well. Place the jars in a cool dark place. Unopened jars can last for several months. Once opened, keep the chutney in the refrigerator and use it within a few weeks. You can also freeze chutney if you want to keep it longer. Simply ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and freeze.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

You can enjoy vegetable chutney in various ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Serve it with grilled chicken or fish for a zesty touch.
• Use it as a topping for burgers or hot dogs.
• Spread it on sandwiches for extra flavor.
• Pair it with cheese boards as a tasty condiment.

VARIATIONS

Feel free to adjust this recipe based on your taste and what you have on hand. Here are some variations you could try:

• Add Fruits: Include apples or pineapple for a sweet twist.
• Change the Peppers: Swap out red or green peppers for yellow or even jalapeños for more heat.
• Different Spices: Experiment with other spices like ginger or mustard seeds for unique flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Just drain and chop them before using.

2. How long does vegetable chutney last?

Unopened chutney can last for several months in a cool, dark place.

3. Is it necessary to sterilize jars?

Yes, sterilizing jars helps to prevent any bacteria and ensures that your chutney stays fresh longer.

4. Can I make this chutney spicy?

Yes! You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add fresh chili peppers to make it spicier.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Vegetable Chutney

You can make vegetable chutney ahead of time. In fact, it’s better if you do! The flavors grow more robust and delicious if you let it sit for a month or more. Here are a few tips for making it ahead:

• Prepare it a month before an event and store it in sterilized jars.
• Always let it cool fully before sealing jars to ensure a proper seal.
• Label jars with the date to keep track of how long they have been stored.

Making vegetable chutney is a fun and rewarding experience. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a condiment that adds flavor to your meals for weeks to come. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

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