Chutney has been a beloved condiment for ages, tracing its roots back to 500 BC. Its name, derived from the Sanskrit word caṭni, evokes the delightful act of licking one's fingers clean. Throughout history, chutneys have captivated taste buds with their rich array of flavours, earning a special place in cuisines across the globe.
Importance of Mango Chutney
Mango chutney is like a trusted friend in the kitchen, always ready to add that perfect touch of sweetness and spice to your meals. Made with fresh mangoes, sugar, vinegar, and a medley of aromatic spices, it's a flavour-packed condiment that brings depth to dishes. Whether you spread it on toast, use it as a dip, or incorporate it into your favourite Indian recipes, mango chutney elevates every bite with its irresistible taste.
How to Make Perfect Mango Chutney: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Sauteing Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a medium stock pot over medium-high heat. Saute garlic, ginger, and diced red chillies for about a minute until fragrant.
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Infusing Flavors: Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom to the pot. Saute for another minute to coax out their robust flavours.
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Adding Mangoes: Add chopped mangoes into the pot, stirring well.
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Sweetening the Mix: Sprinkle sugar and salt over the mango mixture. Pour in white vinegar to enhance the tanginess.
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Simmering to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to simmer steadily for about an hour, ensuring the flavours meld together.
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Adjusting Consistency: Depending on preference, mash some of the larger mango pieces using a potato masher or blender stick.
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Ensuring Longevity: Store the mango chutney in sterilized jars in the fridge, where it can last for up to two months. Alternatively, freeze it for several months for extended freshness.
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Choose Canning: For long-term storage, opt for canning. Pour the chutney into sterilized jars and process in a water bath for 10 minutes. Allow the jars to sit undisturbed for 24 hours before storing them in a dark, cool place. Properly canned chutney can keep for at least a year.
Preserving the Delight: Tips for Storage
Due to its high acidity content, mango chutney can be stored for an extended period. For short-term storage, seal it in a jar and refrigerate for up to two months. For longer preservation, freezing or canning are excellent options, ensuring you can enjoy the delightful flavors of mango chutney throughout the year.
