Sophisticated and simple, these easy-to-make chutney recipes will elevate your next Indian feast to new culinary heights. Whether you prefer a spicy kick, a rich savory flavor, or a hint of sweetness, chutneys can complement a wide range of dishes, from grilled meats and fresh salads to even sweet treats like ice cream! Imagine adding a dollop of apple-spiced chutney on top of fluffy pancakes or serving a bowl of pear chutney alongside a charcuterie board – it’s a match made in heaven.
However, my personal favorite chutneys are those that strike the perfect balance between sweet and spicy, with bold flavors that can cut through the richness of creamy curries. Pair these with warm naan bread, and I’m in culinary paradise!
Mango Chutney
You’ll soon discover why mango chutney is one of my absolute favorite condiments – its unique flavor profile has something for everyone. A perfect harmony of sweet juicy mango, warming spices, and aromatic notes makes it an incredibly versatile accompaniment to a wide range of dishes. I’m particularly fond of adding a spoonful to my Jamaican-style fish and couscous dinner, but it also shines in a bowl of Greek yogurt for breakfast.
Give it a try and see the countless ways you can incorporate it into your meals!
Carrot Chutney
Gather around, because I’ve got a fantastic recipe for you! If you’re stuck with a stash of carrots that need using up, then this is the perfect solution. The humble carrot gets an incredible makeover when combined with aromatic spices, particularly the chana dal, which adds depth and substance to the dish. Whether you prefer a mellow or scorching hot flavor, simply adjust the number of green chilies to suit your taste buds.
This versatile recipe allows you to tailor it to your liking, making it perfect for any time of day or occasion.
Apple Chutney
Just like many people who adore apple butter, this particular recipe is sure to become a favorite. Its flavor profile is expertly balanced, boasting sweetness from the apples, warmth from cinnamon, and a tangy kick that keeps things interesting. When it comes to ingredients, this chutney recipe stands out for its minimal requirements compared to other options.
Additionally, it’s perfect for those looking for an effortless dip solution, as it yields a generous batch without requiring too much time or effort.
Fresh Cranberry Chutney
Ginger Chutney
Revamping your meals has never been easier than with zingy ginger chutney, an ideal condiment to elevate even the most savory meats to new heights of flavor. You’ll begin by carefully extracting tamarind pulp, allowing you to capture all its sweet and sour flavors in a rich and intense way. Next, give the ginger and spices a quick fry in oil to awaken their aromatic properties before blending everything up into a smooth and harmonious mixture.
Finally, add the water slowly until you achieve the right consistency for your chutney, then let it cool slightly before taking your first spoonful.
Pineapple Chutney
Understandably, you’ll want to add this pineapple chutney to all your summer meals because of its unique flavor profile. The sweetness and tartness of the pineapple are perfectly balanced by the warmth of curry and the hint of honey, creating a truly delightful taste experience. Although most chutneys take a bit of time to cook, this particular recipe is surprisingly quick and easy to make, requiring only a short amount of preparation time before it’s ready to serve.
Once you’ve mastered it, be sure to bring it along to your next barbecue or potluck, as it makes an excellent accompaniment to a wide range of dishes, from chicken skewers and ribs to veggie burgers and beyond.
Tomato Chutney
Harnessing the rich flavors of fresh tomatoes is a great way to elevate roasted vegetables and red meat into a satisfying meal. Hearty and aromatic, this homemade tomato chutney recipe begins with a generous quantity of juicy tomatoes, complemented by a mix of sweet and tangy ingredients such as raisins, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and an assortment of warming spices. Once prepared, let the chutney simmer for at least an hour or two to allow all the flavors to meld together.
If you’re planning to store it for later use, canning is recommended; however, if you prefer to enjoy it immediately, skip this step altogether.
Spicy Cherry Chutney
Known for its bold flavors and vibrant color, this spicy cherry chutney is truly a standout condiment. The process of making it begins with cherries being soaked in vodka to extract their juice, after which they’re simmered with white vinegar, sugar, and an array of spices. This straightforward recipe requires minimal effort yet yields an incredibly rewarding outcome that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Apple Raisin Chutney
Eagerly anticipated by many, this seasonal favorite is always stocked in my fridge during the fall. The harmonious combination of honey crisp apples and sweet raisins comes alive with a rich melody of warm spices and two distinct types of vinegar, transporting you to a world reminiscent of cinnamon and everything nice. Whether served as an accompaniment to a cheeseboard or enjoyed on its own, this delightful concoction is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Cilantro Mint Chutney
Take a few minutes out of your busy schedule and you can easily whip up a batch of this fresh herb chutney. This unique version of green chutney is made without cooking, simply blend the ingredients together for an effortless result. The addition of Greek yogurt gives it a creamy texture, while jalapeños add a spicy kick that will elevate any dish. It’s a fantastic condiment to incorporate into all your favorite Mexican recipes, adding a burst of flavor with each bite.
Beetroot Chutney
Ready to spice up your meal routine with some vibrant and delicious beetroot chutney? This recipe combines the natural sweetness of beets with the earthy goodness of lentils, creating a thick and satisfying texture. To elevate the flavor, we’ve added a combination of red and green chilies, cumin, and curry leaves that will leave you wanting more.
Andhra Style Peanut & Tomato Chutney
Delving into the world of Indian cuisine, Andhra chutney stands out as a favorite for its bold and vibrant flavor profile. This iconic condiment is characterized by its harmonious blend of fresh tomatoes, peanuts, garlic, and red chilies, which come together seamlessly with the addition of tadka – a crucial step that involves rapidly cooking spices and lentils before pouring them over the top.
For those looking to add a sweeter twist, incorporating red bell peppers into the mix is an excellent approach.
Spicy Baby Tomato & Sweet Pepper Chutney
Pairing homemade relish with meals can be elevated with a taste of this delightful chunky chutney. A harmonious blend of sweet baby bell peppers and succulent baby tomatoes creates a flavourful combination that’s perfect for adding excitement to your culinary creations. Whether you choose to add it to pasta, smear it on toast, or toss it in your morning scramble, the possibilities are truly endless!
Curried Apple Walnut Chutney
Creating a delicious and aromatic curried apple and walnut chutney is a perfect way to capture the essence of fall. This wonderfully spiced condiment is not only a treat for your taste buds, but it’s also remarkably healthy, with minimal added sugars from the brown sugar. In fact, aside from this one ingredient, it’s essentially a nutrient-rich spread that combines an incredible array of flavors and textures.
Plus, its long shelf life makes it an ideal choice for gifting during the holiday season, so consider making a batch to share with friends and family.
Pear Chutney
When it comes to toast toppings, many people may immediately think of jam and jellies, but this pear chutney is a game-changer that’s worth considering. The combination of apple cider, fresh ginger, shallots, and mixed spice not only adds depth to the pears but also creates a complex flavor profile. Additionally, the inclusion of Gala apples provides a nice textural contrast.
If you’re looking for a new snack idea, try pairing this pear chutney with crostini and a slice of Manchego cheese – the result is truly delicious!
Onion Chutney
Beyond the traditional fruit-based chutneys, there’s a world of possibilities waiting to be explored. By incorporating aromatics like onions into your recipe, you can create a sweet and savory condiment that elevates any dish. The combination of caramelized sweet onions and tangy tamarind is particularly intriguing, making for a tantalizing flavor experience.
Whether you’re looking to add some excitement to grilled chicken or pork chops, or simply want to level up your gourmet grilled cheese game, this onion-based chutney is sure to impress.
Rhubarb Chutney
Lately, rhubarb chutney has become a springtime favorite for many food enthusiasts. Typically, all things rhubarb are known for their tangy and sweet flavors, but this particular condiment takes it up a notch with the addition of orange zest and fresh ginger, creating an intriguing balance of tastes. When it comes to achieving that signature pink hue, using fresh rhubarb is essential.
Green Mango Chutney (Raw Mango Chutney)
Avoid the disappointment of having underripe mangoes when craving mango chutney – they can still be transformed into a surprisingly great condiment. Typically, green mango is the star ingredient in this raw chutney, and its unripe flavor profile boasts a wonderfully tangy taste that might seem like an unconventional choice at first glance. To give your dishes an extra kick, try serving it alongside tandoori chicken or using it as a accompaniment to crispy samosas.
Coriander Chutney (Cilantro Chutney)
Brighten up your mealtime with this vibrant coriander recipe that’s as quick as it is delicious. This stunning chutney looks almost too good to be true, but don’t let its appearance fool you – it’s remarkably easy to prepare. Simply combine a pinch of cumin, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, some grated ginger, and a few diced green chilis for an explosion of flavor. For those who like a little extra kick, adding a sprinkle of chaat masala is always an option.
Fresh Peach Chutney
Creating sweet and tangy flavor profiles is where peach chutney truly shines. With a subtle spice blend that’s neither overpowering nor underwhelming, the addition of red chilis adds a delightful contrast of heat. This delicious combination makes it an ideal accompaniment to grilled meats, while also pairing perfectly with warm brie cheese. Before you know it, your jars will be filled and ready for canning, allowing you to enjoy this luscious spread throughout even the chilliest winter months.
Rhubarb Chutney with Strawberries and Ginger
Cranberry Prosecco Chutney
Take advantage of the festive flavors of the season with this mouthwatering cranberry and prosecco chutney, ideal as a wedding appetizer or Sunday brunch spread. A splash of prosecco adds a delightful twist to the tart sweetness of the cranberries and the savory depth of the shallots, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Be warned: this chutney has an irresistible allure that’s sure to captivate your taste buds, so be sure to prepare sufficient quantities for your guests.
Smoked Eggplant Chutney (Kalchina Vankaya Pachadi)
Keenly aware of the nuances in flavor profiles, I’ve recently fallen head over heels for smoked eggplant chutney. This Indian-inspired condiment shares some similarities with its Middle Eastern counterpart, baba ghanoush, but boasts a distinctive twist that sets it apart. Its bold and robust taste makes it an excellent accompaniment to rich red meats or served alongside a bed of fluffy white rice.
For me, the ultimate experience is savoring it on warm, homemade flatbread – the perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Coconut Chutney
Making its way across the plate in South India, coconut chutney has gained immense popularity. Its versatility is one of its key selling points – you can have it at any meal, not just limited to breakfast. The foundation of this flavorful condiment lies in grated coconut, which absorbs the rich aroma from the tempering process. This process involves heating a blend of spices, resulting in a chutney that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
Coconut chutney is packed with an assortment of spices including cumin, mustard seeds, curry leaves, red chili, and more, all coming together to create a dish that’s both spicy and tantalizing.
Avocado Cilantro Dressing
Keep in mind that this recipe deviates from traditional chutney styles, yet its flavors and textures are designed to be savored like one. The addition of cilantro and garlic lends a Mexican-inspired twist, while the incorporation of avocados creates a rich and creamy base. Furthermore, a squeeze of lime juice elevates the overall taste experience, making it an ideal accompaniment for everything from snacks to burritos.
Fig Chutney
Relax with friends and family over the holidays by serving this delicious fig chutney as a sensational party appetizer. Made with simple ingredients like goat cheese and crackers, this sweet and complex condiment is elevated by the warming spices it contains. With its ease of preparation and stunning presentation, it’s an ideal holiday treat that your guests will adore.
While it does require about an hour of simmering to reach perfection, the end result is well worth the wait, as you’ll soon discover when everyone raves about this delectable creation.
Red Coconut Chutney
Gathering inspiration from our favorite dishes is an excellent way to create something new and exciting, like transforming your go-to curry into a delicious chutney. The combination of aromatic spices and coconut flavor adds depth to various meals, making it a versatile addition to any culinary experience.
To give the chutney its signature warm color without overpowering heat, Kashmiri red chili is used in moderation, allowing everyone, regardless of their spice tolerance, to enjoy this comforting condiment.
Apricot Chutney
Likely one of the most delicious ways to enjoy apricot jam is by devouring this tangy and spicy apricot chutney straight from the spoon. Its sweet flavor profile is elevated by an irresistible curry kick, making it hard to resist another spoonful. For added heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
The use of white vinegar is crucial in achieving the perfect balance of tanginess without overpowering the other flavors, unlike red wine or apple cider vinegar which would add unwanted flavor notes. When storing this chutney, make sure to clean your jars thoroughly to ensure it remains fresh for an extended period in a cool pantry.
Caramelized Shallot & Grape Chutney
Understanding the nuances of grape chutney can be deceiving at first glance, given the overwhelming variety of flavors that have become popular in recent years. However, the addition of caramelized shallots elevates this humble condiment to new heights. A symphony of flavors emerges as the deep sweetness of caramelized shallots harmonizes with the jammy texture of the grapes, and is further enhanced by a splash of bourbon and red wine.
This rich combination creates a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with a charcuterie board featuring an assortment of cheeses and cured meats such as prosciutto and capicola. Ultimately, this refined grape chutney makes for a sophisticated accompaniment to any gathering or event.
30 Best Ways to Use Chutney
While exploring the world of Indian cuisine, these simple yet flavorful chutney recipes can be a game-changer for any food enthusiast. Not only do they elevate the flavors of your next Indian-inspired meal, but they also complement a variety of dishes such as grilled meats, salads, and even sweet treats like ice cream perfectly!
Instructions
Start by choosing a mouth-watering recipe that you’ve been eager to try out. Next, gather all the essential ingredients needed for the dish and make sure they’re within your reach. Once you have everything ready, you can easily prepare a delicious chutney in under 30 minutes!
