Monday, January 18, 2010

Make Raspberry Chutney







Raspberries make a delicious fruit chutney.


Chutney is the name for a variety of traditional East Indian saucelike foods. It is similar to relish and served as a spread, dip or condiment. Chutney can be herb-based, which is served fresh with minimal cooking, or vegetable- and fruit-based, which is often cooked and preserved. Prepared with sugar, vinegar and spices, fruit and vegetable chutneys are a sweet and spicy blend. Chutney is becoming increasingly popular in the United States because of its exotic taste and versatility, according to the National Center for Home Food Preservation.


Instructions


1. Premeasure your spices for ease in preparation.


Combine the raspberries and apples in a large pot and mix. Add the garlic, ginger, mustard, salt and cayenne pepper, and continue mixing until well blended.








2. Wooden spoons work best for cooking chutney.


Add the vinegar, stir well and simmer on medium high heat for about five minutes or until the berries are soft.


3. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.


Reduce the heat, add the brown sugar and continue cooking for 45 to 50 minutes or until the mixture is thick. Stir occasionally.


4. Chutney can be preserved following standard canning procedures.


Put the chutney in a covered dish and chill before serving, or pour the mixture into sterilized half-pint canning jars and follow canning instructions to seal and process, suggests the National Center for Home Food Preservation.

Tags: Center Home, Center Home Food, Food Preservation, Home Food, Home Food Preservation, minutes until, National Center