Condiments > Chutneys

Date-Plum Chutney Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup fresh plums, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large saucepan
- Immersion blender or food processor (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped dates, plums, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, raisins, chopped onion, grated fresh ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.

3. Reduce the heat to low and let the chutney simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened and the fruit has broken down.

4. If desired, use an immersion blender or food processor to puree the chutney until it reaches your desired consistency.

5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

6. Let the chutney cool to room temperature before transferring it to a clean, airtight container.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for boiling
- Low heat for simmering
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of chutney

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 70 per serving (2 tablespoons)
- Fat: 0.1g
- Carbohydrates: 18.1g
- Fiber: 1.1g
- Protein: 0.4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Dried plums (prunes) can be used instead of fresh plums.
- White sugar can be used instead of brown sugar.
- White wine vinegar or rice vinegar can be used instead of apple cider vinegar.
- Dried cranberries or currants can be used instead of raisins.
- Ground nutmeg can be used instead of ground cinnamon.

Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Substitute the plums with peaches or apricots for a different flavor.
- Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist.
- Use this chutney as a topping for grilled chicken or pork.

Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to chop the dates and plums into small pieces to ensure they break down properly during cooking.
- Stir the chutney occasionally during cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Let the chutney cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer.

Storage Instructions:
- Store the chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze the chutney in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat the chutney in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the chutney in a small bowl or ramekin alongside cheese and crackers.
- Use the chutney as a topping for crostini or bruschetta.
- Spoon the chutney over roasted vegetables or grilled meats.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, over the chutney before serving.

Pairings:
- Serve the chutney with a variety of cheeses, such as brie, cheddar, or goat cheese.
- Pair the chutney with crackers or toasted bread.
- Serve the chutney alongside roasted meats, such as chicken or pork.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve the chutney alongside a green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Pair the chutney with rice or quinoa.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the chutney is too thick, add a splash of water or apple cider vinegar to thin it out.
- If the chutney is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken.

Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to use clean, sanitized utensils and equipment when making the chutney.
- Store the chutney in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent spoilage.

Food History:
- Chutney is a condiment that originated in India and is typically made with a combination of fruits, spices, and vinegar or citrus juice.

Flavor Profiles:
- This date-plum chutney is sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy, with warm notes of cinnamon and cloves.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the chutney at room temperature or slightly warmed.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Indian

Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Spicy, Savory, Fruity