Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Chutney
Spice Level: Medium | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 1 hr | Serves: 12 | Rating: 3.9/5 (17 votes) | Views: 32,188 | Dietary Info: Vegetarian
Introduction
This Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Chutney is a delightful, savory-sweet condiment that pairs beautifully with various dishes. The chutney is easy to prepare, bursting with flavors, and offers a medium spice kick. The key ingredients – fresh cherry tomatoes, sweet red peppers, and the aromatic combination of garlic and onions – are roasted to perfection, which intensifies their flavors. It’s ideal for adding a touch of zest to grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a dipping sauce for snacks. Best of all, it’s vegetarian, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large red onion, roughly chopped | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, roughly chopped | 4 |
| Red peppers, roughly chopped | 2 |
| Fresh cherry tomatoes | 500g |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Green chili, chopped | 1 |
Allergen Information
This chutney contains no major allergens, making it safe for most dietary needs. However, for those with spice sensitivities, the green chili adds heat, so it can be adjusted or omitted based on personal preferences.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This chutney is entirely plant-based and free from any animal-derived ingredients, making it perfect for those following a vegetarian diet.
- Vegan-Friendly: It’s also suitable for vegans as it does not contain any dairy or animal-based products.
- Gluten-Free: No gluten-containing ingredients are used in this chutney, so it’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Nut-Free: This recipe contains no nuts, making it a safe choice for individuals with nut allergies.
Preparation Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by roughly chopping the red onion, garlic, red peppers, and cherry tomatoes into manageable pieces. These ingredients will be roasted to bring out their natural sweetness and complexity. -
Combine in Roasting Tray
Place all the chopped vegetables and garlic into a roasting tin. This will allow them to cook evenly and release their flavors during roasting. -
Add Seasonings
Drizzle oil and vinegar over the vegetables. Add the salt, green chili, and cumin seeds. Toss the mixture thoroughly so that all the ingredients are well-coated in the oil and spices. -
Roast to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 180ºC (350ºF). Place the roasting tin into the oven and roast the mixture for about an hour. Keep an eye on it during the roasting process. The vegetables should soften, the tomatoes will burst, and the onions will begin to caramelize, developing a rich, sweet flavor. -
Blend the Chutney
Once the roasting is complete, transfer the mixture into a blender and blend until smooth. You may need to pause and stir occasionally for a smoother consistency. -
Strain for Smoothness
To achieve a silky, refined texture, pass the blended mixture through a sieve to remove any seeds or large bits of skin from the peppers and tomatoes. -
Store and Enjoy
Transfer the chutney into a clean jar for storage. The chutney will keep for up to two weeks in the fridge. Enjoy it as a condiment with a wide range of dishes.
Advice
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder chutney, reduce the amount of green chili or omit it entirely. On the other hand, for those who enjoy more heat, consider adding an extra chili or a pinch of chili flakes.
- Serving Suggestions: This chutney is perfect for serving alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. It also pairs beautifully with cheese and charcuterie boards, adding a sweet, tangy depth of flavor.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment by adding other spices or ingredients. A dash of smoked paprika, ginger, or even a hint of sugar could make for interesting variations.
- Make Ahead: This chutney can be made ahead of time and stored for later use, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or for preparing in advance for parties and gatherings.
Conclusion
The Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Chutney is a wonderfully versatile condiment that can elevate a variety of meals with its rich, smoky flavor and perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a homemade touch to their dishes. With a simple ingredient list, minimal prep time, and a short roasting time, this chutney is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed for up to two weeks in the fridge. Whether you’re looking for a dip, a topping, or a side condiment, this chutney will undoubtedly impress with its flavor-packed punch.
Enjoy the chutney with your next meal, and feel free to get creative by incorporating it into different recipes!
