APPLE AND PEAR CHUTNEY

Apple and Pear Chutney is a sweet, tangy, and slightly spiced condiment that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from roasted meats and cheeses to curries and sandwiches. Made with fresh apples, pears, and warm spices, this chutney is a wonderful balance of fruity sweetness and savory depth. It’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your meals, and it stores well, making it great for gifting or meal prepping.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 2 medium pears, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the fruit: Peel, core, and dice the apples and pears. Set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the ginger and garlic, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the fruit and spices: Stir in the diced apples, pears, raisins (if using), cinnamon, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, and red chili flakes (if using). Stir well to combine the fruit with the spices.
4. Add sugar and vinegar: Pour in the apple cider vinegar and add the brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
5. Simmer the chutney: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the fruit is tender and the mixture has thickened to a chutney-like consistency.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional sugar or vinegar if needed, depending on your preferred balance of sweet and tangy.
7. Cool and store: Once the chutney has thickened and the flavors have melded together, remove it from the heat. Let it cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or process the jars in a water bath for longer shelf life.

This Apple and Pear Chutney is a versatile condiment that adds a punch of flavor to your meals, whether served with cheese boards, grilled meats, or even as a spread for sandwiches!