Orchard Cottage Chutney Recipes

ORCHARD COTTAGE CHUTNEY

Steps:

• Put the plums, tomatoes and vinegar into a large preserving pan. Bring to the boil and then simmer gently until very soft.
• Mince together the garlic, onions, raisins and apples or use a food processor to chop them finely. Add to the plum mixture with the sugar, salt and bag of spices. (see note below regarding spices).
• Heat gently until the sugar is dissolved. Bring to the boil and then simmer uncovered for about 2 hours, or until the chutney is well reduced and very thick. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Remove the bag of spices and spoon into hot sterilised jars and seal down.
• Allow jars to cool before labeling and store for 2-3 weeks before using.
• NOTE: Use a mixture of any or all of the following for the spices: Peppercorns, allspice berries, ginger, celery seeds, cloves, dried chillies or coriander seeds. Tie them up into a clean muslin bag.

SEASONAL CHUTNEY

Steps:

• Make your spice bag by tying up the spices in an 8-inch square of cheesecloth. Put this into a preserving pan with all the other ingredients and bring slowly to a boil, stirring occasionally. This will take awhile, as there will be lots in the pan, but don't hurry it.
• Let the mixture simmer, uncovered, for 2 1/2 to 3 hours - maybe even a bit more. You do not have to hover, hawk-eyed, over the pan, but do keep an eye on it and stir regularly to ensure it doesn't burn. It's ready when it is glossy, thick, rich in color and well reduced - but with the chunks of fruit and vegetables still clearly discernible. It is thick enough if, when you draw a wooden spoon through it, the chutney parts to reveal the bottom of the pan for a few seconds.
• Pot the chutney while warm in sterilized jars (see p. 21). Pack down with the back of a spoon to remove any air pockets. Seal with vinegar-proof lids (see p. 22). Store in a cool, dark place for a couple of months to mature before using. Use within 2 years.
• For each variation, use 2 1/2 cups of light brown sugar, 2 1/2 cups of cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, a pinch of salt, and 2 teaspoons of dried chile flakes (if using) and follow the basic method.