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Sweet and Spicy Apple Chutney

A delightful blend of sweet apples and warm spices, perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Condiment, Snack
Cuisine: American, Festive
Calories: 90
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1000 g dessert apples, peeled and diced (Braeburn recommended) These apples offer a satisfying crunch and juicy sweetness.
  • 250 g onions, diced (about 2 medium onions) Provides a savory balance to the sweetness of the apples.
  • 100 g sultanas Add sweetness and chewy texture.
  • 15 g grated ginger Brings warming warmth and fragrant heat.
  • 2 tsp pink peppercorns Elevates the chutney's complexity.
  • 1 tsp chili flakes Adds a kick of heat.
  • 1 tsp turmeric Adds earthy depth and beautiful color.
  • 1 piece star anise Imparts wonderful licorice-like flavor.
  • 1 small stick cinnamon Creates a cozy aroma.
  • 0.5 tsp sea salt Enhances flavors.
  • 300 ml cider apple vinegar Balances sweetness perfectly.
  • 300 g caster sugar Helps achieve the characteristic glaze.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Place the diced apples, onions, sultanas, grated ginger, pink peppercorns, chili flakes, turmeric, star anise, cinnamon stick, and sea salt into a preserving pan.
  2. Pour the cider vinegar into the pan, stirring everything together thoroughly.
Cooking
  1. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
  2. Cover the pan with a lid and allow the chutney to simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the caster sugar until dissolved.
  4. Return the pan to low heat without the lid, letting it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  5. The chutney is ready when it becomes thick and glossy, leaving a trail when you draw a spatula through it.
  6. Remove the star anise and cinnamon stick before ladling the chutney into sterilized jars.
Slow Cooker Method
  1. Follow steps 1 and 2, then transfer to a slow cooker with the lid on.
  2. Cook on high for 1 hour before stirring in the sugar.
  3. Keep the lid slightly propped open and continue cooking on high for an additional 5 to 6 hours.

Notes

For variations, try adding nuts or different spices to cater to your taste preferences. This chutney pairs excellently with cheese, grilled meats, or as a condiment for sandwiches.