Spice it Up with Chutney

What’s the mystery with chutney? Americans seem to shy away from this much loved Indian food. Yet, chutney, a condiment like the relishes, salsas or dips of this country, is simply a fruit-based mixture that originated in India; where no Indian meal would be complete without it. Its name comes from the Hindu word chatni meaning “for licking”. Chutneys range in flavor from sweet to sour, spicy to mild, chunky to smooth, or any combination. Chutneys can add an exotic taste to any meal without adding fat.

The art of making chutneys dates back hundreds of years. In India, there are thousands of recipes; each family makes their own version.

Chutney can be either fresh or cooked; both add flavor and spice to each meal. In India, the custom is to make fresh chutney daily. Uncooked chutney can be made with peanuts, cashews, fresh herbs, chilies, and green mangos seasoned with lime juice, ginger, garlic, and other spices. Cooked chutney is made using fruits like tomatoes, mangoes, pineapples, tamarind, apples, and pears. These are combined with fresh seasonings like ginger, hot chilies and lemon juice and cooked with spices.

Folklore has it; during the colonial era, the British Sailors introduced chutney to their homeland and other colonial empires they controlled such as South Africa and the Caribbean Islands. A mythical colonial British Officer named “Major Grey” created his own style of mango chutney to accompany his favorite curry dishes. . It combines chunks of mango with hints of garlic and ginger. This chutney, available in the better grocery stores, is still popular today

Traditionally, Chutney goes well with food seasoned with curry. It compliments strong flavored meats such as wild game, beef, chicken, goat, and pork. It can be offered to patrons as a side, or added to the plate to enhance the presentation.

Chutney when made with fresh ingredients is a healthy food that will enhance the flavor of your meal regardless of your diet concerns.

What is your favorite homemade chutney?