This spicy chipotle cranberry chutney is a fun mix of sweet and spicy flavors. With fresh cranberries and a kick from chipotle peppers, it’s sure to add zesty fun to any dish!
Perfect on turkey or as a tasty dip, I love to serve it at gatherings. It always gets people talking about how unique and delicious it is! Give it a try for a tasty twist! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are essential for the tart flavor. If you can’t find them, frozen cranberries work just as well! Just make sure to thaw them first before cooking.
Chipotle Peppers: These give the chutney its signature heat and smokiness. For less heat, try using just one pepper, or replace them with a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor without spice.
Sugar: A mix of granulated and brown sugars adds sweetness and depth. For a healthier option, you can use honey or maple syrup instead, adjusting to taste as they are sweeter than sugar.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess. You can substitute it with white vinegar or lemon juice if needed, but keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different.
Fresh Herbs: While cilantro adds freshness, parsley is a good alternative. If you’re not a fan of herbs, feel free to skip it altogether!
How Do I Ensure My Chutney Has the Perfect Consistency?
Getting the right texture for your chutney is all about cooking it long enough. Here are steps to help you get there:
- Start by cooking the cranberries with the sugar and vinegar until they burst. This releases their juices.
- Allow the mixture to simmer without a lid. This helps steam escape and the chutney to thicken properly.
- Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it. Cooking time can vary, so taste as you go for the right balance of flavors.
Let it cool completely before storing in the fridge. It will thicken further as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny at first!
How to Make Spicy Chipotle Cranberry Chutney
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust for desired spiciness)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle peppers can)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful chutney will take about 25-30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes chopping and mixing ingredients, and then it simmers for about 15-20 minutes as the flavors meld together beautifully. After cooking, let it cool before storing in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and cook until it’s softened, which will take about 3-4 minutes. This gives your chutney a nice fragrant base.
2. Add the Ginger:
Add the grated fresh ginger to the onions and cook for another 30 seconds. You want to release those delightful aromas!
3. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Now stir in the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, chopped chipotle peppers, and the adobo sauce. Mix well until everything is combined.
4. Season the Mixture:
Add in the ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt to the mixture. Stir to combine all those delicious flavors.
5. Bring to a Boil:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally until the cranberries burst and the chutney thickens nicely.
6. Cool the Chutney:
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and let the chutney cool slightly. If you’re using cilantro or parsley, stir it in now for an extra layer of flavor.
7. Transfer and Refrigerate:
Carefully transfer the chutney to a jar or bowl. Cover it and pop it in the fridge. It will thicken more as it cools, making it the perfect spread!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your spicy chipotle cranberry chutney chilled or at room temperature. It’s fantastic with roasted meats, on sandwiches, or simply as a flavorful dip with chips. Enjoy the mix of tart, sweet, and smoky-spicy goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well in this recipe. Just thaw them completely before using, and there’s no need to adjust the cooking time.
What if I Don’t Like Spicy Food?
If spice isn’t your thing, you can reduce the number of chipotle peppers to one or even use just the adobo sauce for a gentler flavor. Alternatively, consider substituting with smoked paprika for a smoky taste without the heat.
Can I Make This Chutney in Advance?
Yes! This chutney can be made up to a week in advance. Just make sure it’s stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often develop even more after a day or two!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chutney in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. To serve, just give it a good stir if it thickens up in the fridge!