Homemade Tomato Apple Chutney

Homemade Tomato Apple Chutney is a sweet and tangy condiment made from ripe tomatoes, crisp apples, and aromatic spices. It pairs beautifully with cheeses, meats, sandwiches, and even rice dishes, adding a delicious burst of flavor to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chutney is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy notes, with just a hint of warmth from spices. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal equipment, and can be stored for weeks, making it an excellent make-ahead addition to your pantry. The combination of apples and tomatoes offers a refreshing twist to traditional chutneys, delivering a unique depth of flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh tomatoes, chopped

• Apples, peeled and diced

• Red onion, finely chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Fresh ginger, grated

• Apple cider vinegar

• Brown sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Ground cloves

• Ground allspice

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Olive oil (optional)

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, heat a small amount of olive oil (if using) over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant and softened.

2. Add chopped tomatoes and diced apples. Stir to combine.

3. Pour in apple cider vinegar and add brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, salt, and pepper.

4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency and the fruits are tender.

6. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars.

7. Store in the refrigerator or process jars in a water bath for longer shelf life.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes approximately 2–3 cups
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Use green apples for a sharper taste.

• Add raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness.

• Spice it up with a chopped chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

• Swap apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar for deeper richness.

• Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory element.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store cooled chutney in airtight, sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Canning: For long-term storage, use the water bath canning method to seal jars properly.
Reheating: Chutney is typically served cold or at room temperature, but can be gently warmed if serving with hot dishes.

FAQs

What type of apples should I use?

Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance.

Can I freeze tomato apple chutney?

Yes, once cooled, transfer to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

Is this chutney spicy?

Not inherently. The listed recipe is mild, but you can add chili or cayenne to increase heat.

How long does chutney last in the fridge?

When stored properly in sterilized jars, it lasts up to 3 weeks refrigerated.

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes are preferred for texture and flavor, but canned can be used in a pinch.

Do I have to peel the tomatoes?

No, but peeling them results in a smoother texture. Blanching helps with easy peeling.

What dishes go well with this chutney?

It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, cheese boards, sandwiches, and rice dishes.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but the flavor and preservation time will be affected. Adjust to taste.

Is vinegar necessary?

Yes, it acts as a preservative and balances the sweetness. Use a high-quality vinegar for best results.

How do I sterilize jars for storage?

Boil jars and lids for 10 minutes, then let dry on a clean towel before filling.

Conclusion

Homemade Tomato Apple Chutney is a versatile, flavorful condiment that enhances both everyday meals and special occasions. Its balance of sweetness, acidity, and spice makes it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Whether spread on toast, paired with meats, or served on a cheese board, this chutney is sure to impress with its complex, homemade taste.

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