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Discover the Magic of Homemade Cranberry Chutney

Cranberry chutney has become one of my favorite things to make—and to share. If you’ve visited the Lenoir County Farmer’s Market between October and December, you might have already spotted (and hopefully sampled) my jars of cranberry chutney. It’s one of my best sellers, and for good reason: people love it! Honestly, they just need one taste to realize how versatile and delicious it is.

This tangy-sweet condiment has found its way onto everything from turkey dinners to charcuterie boards, and it’s even been used as a unique gift for friends and family during the holidays. There’s something about its bold flavors that makes it impossible to resist. Whether you’re a fan of gourmet pairings or just looking to spice up your meals, cranberry chutney is a game-changer.

Discover the Perfect Cranberry Chutney

 A Holiday Staple and Year-Round Delight

Are you looking for the perfect condiment to elevate your meals? Cranberry chutney is a tangy, sweet, and spicy addition that pairs beautifully with meats, cheeses, and even plant-based dishes. This versatile recipe is a must-have for anyone who loves bold flavors and easy-to-make gourmet touches in their kitchen.

What is Cranberry Chutney?

Cranberry chutney is a flavorful condiment made with cranberries, fruits, spices, and aromatics. Unlike traditional cranberry sauce, chutney adds complexity with layers of texture and taste. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet apples, zesty oranges, warm spices, and a touch of savory onion creates a condiment that is both festive and versatile.

Whether you’re serving a Thanksgiving turkey or crafting a charcuterie board, cranberry chutney offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bursting with Flavor: Tangy cranberries, sweet raisins, and warm spices come together for a flavor-packed experience.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
  • Multi-Purpose: Use it as a topping for roasted meats, a spread for sandwiches, or even a side for cheese platters.
  • Long Shelf Life: Cranberry chutney stores well, making it a great make-ahead recipe for busy holiday seasons.

cranberry chutney

Key Ingredients for Cranberry Chutney

  • Cranberries: The star of the dish, bringing tartness and a vibrant red color.
  • Oranges and Apples: Add natural sweetness and a citrusy kick.
  • Raisins: A chewy texture and caramel-like sweetness.
  • Onion, Celery, and Garlic: These balance the sweetness with savory notes.
  • Spices: Warm cinnamon, allspice, and cloves give the chutney its signature holiday aroma.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tanginess and preserves the chutney.
  • Brown Sugar: Rounds out the flavors with rich sweetness.

5 Ways to Enjoy Cranberry Chutney

  1. As a Turkey Companion: A classic pairing for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.
  2. On a Cheese Board: Serve with Brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar for an elegant appetizer.
  3. As a Sandwich Spread: Use it to elevate your leftover turkey or ham sandwiches.
  4. With Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle over roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts for a burst of flavor.
  5. As a Gift: Pack it into jars for a thoughtful homemade holiday gift.

Cranberry Chutney Recipe

With a total prep and cook time under an hour, this recipe is a breeze to make. It yields enough to share with friends and family or to enjoy over several meals.

Cranberry Chutney Recipe

Kristy Kelly
This tangy and flavorful cranberry chutney combines fruit, spices, and aromatics for a delicious accompaniment to meats, cheeses, or as a spread.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 95 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 medium orange (zest and juice)
  • 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced
  • 1/2 cup golden raisins
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground allspice
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup water (as needed)
  • 1/4 tsp freshly grated ginger

Instructions
 

  • Instructions
    Prepare Ingredients: Zest and juice the orange into a medium saucepan. Dice the apple and finely chop the onion, celery, and garlic.
    Combine in a Saucepan: Add cranberries, orange zest and juice, diced apple, raisins, onion, celery, garlic, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, salt, and pepper to the saucepan.
    Cook the Chutney: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the cranberries begin to pop (about 5-7 minutes). Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add water in small amounts if the mixture becomes too thick.
    Taste and Adjust: Taste the chutney and adjust sweetness or spices if needed. Cool and Serve: Let the chutney cool to room temperature. It will thicken as it cools.

Notes

Serve immediately or transfer to sterilized jars for storage.
Keyword chutney, cranberry, recipe
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