Cranberry chutney is a beloved condiment that perfectly blends tart cranberries with sweet and spiced flavors. Often prepared around the holidays, this recipe pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even as a spread for sandwiches. Its roots trace back to South Asian cuisine, but this version is a Western adaptation popular in American homes, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. Its sweet-savory balance and hint of citrus make it a standout accompaniment to hearty meals.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 2 ½ cups sugar
- 4 cups cranberries
- ½ tsp clove
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup white raisins
- 1 apple (chopped)
- 1 lemon (juice and grated rind)
- 1 orange (juice and grated rind)
- 6 tbsps Port wine (optional)
- ½ cup almonds or walnuts (chopped)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Add water, sugar, cranberries, clove, and cinnamon to a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook until cranberries begin to pop.
Step 2: Add Fruits & Veggies
- Stir in raisins, chopped apple, lemon juice and zest, and orange juice and zest.
- Mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Simmer
- Cook over medium heat for an additional 30 minutes or until thickened and flavors are well blended.
Step 4: Add Final Touches
- Stir in Port wine and chopped nuts.
Step 5: Store
- Pour into sterilized jars.
- Seal and refrigerate.
Tips
- Add a pinch of ginger or allspice for deeper warm-spice flavor.
- Replace white sugar with brown sugar for a richer, molasses-like profile.
- Stir in dried apricots or chopped dates for extra texture.
- Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds based on preference.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangier, more chutney-like finish.
- For spicy chutney, include a diced jalapeño or pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Use orange zest plus juice instead of both lemon and orange if preferred.
- Serve with turkey, pork roast, cheese boards, or sandwiches.
- For a smoother texture, mash part of the cranberries as they cook.
- Freeze in small containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Calories: 170kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 0.5gFat: 1.5gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.7gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.4gSodium: 5mgPotassium: 105mgFiber: 2gSugar: 39gVitamin A: 40IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 12mgIron: 0.3mg
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