Chutney

The word chutney is derived from the Indian term 'chatni', which literally means 'to lick something in small amounts'. In its traditional form it is a spicy relish made to be eaten fresh, using whatever suitable strongly flavoured ingredients are available at the time, such as fruits, vegetables, sugar, herbs and spices (for example, coriander ginger or chilli). Whilst there are still a number of fresh chutneys, the majority of commercially prepared chutneys now also contain vegetable oil, vinegar or lemon juice to enhance their keeping properties to allow them to be stored for longer periods of time.

The wide range of different ingredients that may be used in making chutney means that they can vary in flavour from mild to hot, sweet to sour, and in consistency from smooth to chunky. One of the most popular chutneys is mango chutney, made from green, unripe mangoes, whilst other types such as ginger and garlic, apricot, spiced peach or apple and walnut may also be found.

Chutneys form an important part of every meal in India and accompany even the most basic curries. They may also be served as a condiment with cold meats, cheeses or pork pie and they work well with hot savoury dishes such as grilled pork or poultry. They may also be added to sandwiches or salad dressings.