This Spicy Chipotle Cranberry Chutney is a tasty blend of sweet and heat. With vibrant cranberries and a kick from chipotle peppers, it’s perfect with meats or as a dip!
You can serve it at holiday dinners or just enjoy it on a lazy snack day. It’s sweet, spicy, and totally makes your taste buds dance! I love spreading it on sandwiches for a tasty twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are essential for this chutney. If you can’t find them, you could use frozen cranberries. Just remember to thaw them first.
Chipotle Pepper: For heat, chipotle in adobo adds a smokiness. If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount or use a dash of smoked paprika instead.
Brown Sugar: While brown sugar gives depth, you could replace it with honey or maple syrup for a different sweet note. Adjust to taste as needed!
Onion: A small onion is used here, but you could easily swap it out for shallots for a sweeter flavor. Green onions can also work if you’re in a pinch.
Spices: The combination of cinnamon and cloves adds warmth. If you’re out of one or both, you can use a pinch of pumpkin spice as an alternative.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Chutney Consistency?
Making chutney can be tricky, but getting the right thickness is key! Here are steps to ensure you achieve that perfect chunky sauce:
- Start by sautéing the onions well; it builds flavor.
- When you add the cranberries, keep the heat moderate. This allows them to burst and release their juice without burning.
- Simmer uncovered. This helps to thicken the chutney as the moisture evaporates.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on the texture. If it seems too runny, let it simmer a bit longer until it thickens.
Allow it to cool before storing—it will thicken as it does. Enjoy your chutney with confidence!
Spicy Chipotle Cranberry Chutney
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle pepper can)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional garnish: fresh rosemary sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll be enjoying this tasty chutney in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Onion:
Start by heating the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This step builds a great base for your chutney!
2. Adding the Aromatics:
Next, add the grated fresh ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves to the sautéed onions. Stir everything together for about 1 minute until it smells wonderful and aromatic.
3. Combining the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the star ingredients! Stir in the fresh cranberries, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, chopped chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, and salt. Mix everything well to combine all the flavors.
4. Cooking the Chutney:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally as the cranberries burst and the chutney thickens into a chunky sauce consistency.
5. Cooling and Storing:
Once the chutney has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Give it a taste, and if you’d like, adjust the seasonings!
6. Serving:
Transfer the chutney to a serving jar or bowl, and if desired, garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary. This chutney can be served either chilled or at room temperature.
7. Enjoy!
Enjoy your Spicy Chipotle Cranberry Chutney! It’s perfect as a side with roasted meats, cheeses, or as a delicious condiment on sandwiches. The sweet and spicy flavors will surely impress!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes! You can definitely use frozen cranberries for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture to avoid a watery chutney.
How Can I Adjust the Heat Level?
If you prefer a milder chutney, reduce the amount of chipotle pepper or omit it entirely. You can also balance the spice by adding extra brown sugar for sweetness.
Can I Make This Chutney in Advance?
Absolutely! This chutney can be made up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it’ll develop even more flavor over time.
What are the Best Ways to Serve This Chutney?
This chutney pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, especially turkey and ham. It’s also great on sandwiches, as a topping for cheese boards, or even as a dip for crackers!
