Spiced Prune Chutney Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Delight for Every Meal
When you’re looking for a unique and flavorful chutney to spice up your meals, this Spiced Prune Chutney is the perfect choice. This chutney, with its rich combination of sweet prunes, aromatic spices, and tangy vinegar, makes an excellent side dish or sandwich spread. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes like parathas, sandwiches, or even grilled meats. Ideal for those who love a sweet-spicy flavor profile, this chutney will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients for Spiced Prune Chutney
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Prunes | 1 cup |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Flakes | 4 tablespoons |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
While the specific nutritional breakdown will depend on portion size, here’s an approximate overview per serving:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70-90 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 80mg |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 15g |
| Protein | 1g |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 |
| Cook Time | 20 |
| Total Time | 30 |
| Servings | 4 |
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions for Making Spiced Prune Chutney
-
Prepare the Aromatics
Heat a flat skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, crack the ajwain (carom seeds) in the skillet. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until they release their fragrant aroma. Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes or until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing its sweet and savory scent. -
Cook the Tomatoes and Spices
Add the finely chopped tomato to the skillet, followed by the cinnamon powder, nutmeg powder, and red chili flakes. Stir everything together, letting the tomato soften and cook down. Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes break down and the mixture becomes a thick, fragrant paste. The spices will begin to bloom, creating a rich aroma in the kitchen. -
Add the Prunes
Once the tomato mixture is well-cooked, add the prunes. Stir to combine, and add ½ cup of water to help the chutney cook without sticking. Allow the chutney to simmer gently for about 15 minutes, giving the prunes time to soften and absorb the spices. -
Blend the Chutney
After the prunes have softened and the mixture has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Let it cool for a few minutes, and then transfer the mixture into a blender. Blitz the chutney until it reaches a coarse, chunky consistency. You can adjust the texture by blending more for a smoother chutney, or leave it as is for a rustic feel. -
Season and Final Touches
Once blended, return the chutney to the pan and stir in the honey, vinegar, and salt to taste. The honey adds a delightful sweetness, while the vinegar brings a tangy balance to the chutney. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or chili flakes depending on your preferred flavor profile. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once the chutney is ready, allow it to cool down to room temperature. This Spiced Prune Chutney can be served as a perfect accompaniment to dishes like Cabbage Paneer Paratha or spread on your favorite sandwich. It also pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a side with any meal that could use a sweet and spicy kick.
Tips for the Best Spiced Prune Chutney:
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter chutney, feel free to add a bit more honey or even a tablespoon of jaggery for a more traditional flavor.
- Spice levels: The red chili flakes can be adjusted to suit your spice tolerance. For a milder chutney, reduce the chili flakes or omit them entirely.
- Storage: This chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. Its flavor tends to deepen as it sits, so it’s even better the next day!
- Vinegar substitute: If you don’t have vinegar on hand, you can use lemon juice for a fresh, tangy alternative.
Conclusion:
This Spiced Prune Chutney is a flavorful, versatile addition to any meal. With its sweet prunes, aromatic spices, and a perfect balance of heat and tang, it’s an excellent condiment for various Indian dishes, sandwiches, or even as a topping for roasted meats. Try this chutney and take your meals to the next level with its irresistible blend of flavors.
