Sweet Mango Chutney
Chutney is simple and easy to make and a great way to enjoy mangoes in season. This sweet mango chutney has ginger and warm spices of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. It takes less than 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. Add it to your favorite meat or roast to add more flavor. This ginger mango chutney is also the best sandwich spread you will ever taste.
If you love chutney, then you will agree that a good chutney can be addictive. As a kid, my mom had to hide chutney or pickles from me. I love chutney so much I could eat a whole jar of mom's sweet or spicy mango chutney.
What is chutney?
The word chutney is Indian (pronounced as chatni) and it means 'strongly spiced'. It is usually a fruit or mixture of fruits in warm spices, cooked with sugar (or jaggery) and an acid, like vinegar. Chutney may be sweet, spicy or a combination of the two. You can have a sweet chutney, very similar to jam, but strongly spiced.
There are very blurry lines when it comes to distinctions between Indian chutney, pickles, and relishes.
Traditional mango chutney
This recipe is similar to an Indian mango chunda recipe. I say similar because the traditional mango chunda was cooked in the sun, not on a stovetop. Mango, sugar, and spices were placed in an earthen pot and left out in the sun every morning till dusk. This was done every day until all the sugar melted and thickened. The process was long and slow and required a great deal of patience and care. Our grandmoms had all that patience and care. Didn't they?
What does sweet mango chutney taste like?
The basic tase of this comes from the type of mangoes you use. I like to use a nice semi-ripe mango that's firm and still has that raw tart taste to it. The mango is combined with the pungent taste of ginger-infused with warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. So, essentially you have a sweet, sour, spicy yet mild burst of flavors.
How long does it take to make homemade sweet mango chutney?
Hard to believe but this mango chutney takes only about 30 minutes to cook and less than 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients.
How to use this sweet mango chutney?
There is really no right or wrong way to using a good mango chutney.
- A good chutney makes the best sandwich spread.
- Serve it with meat such as chicken, lamb, or pork. Try a chicken roast sandwich with mango chutney as the spread. Or brush mango chutney over boneless chicken breast and bake until it is moist and tender.
- Mango chutney and cheese is a classic combination that never fails. Try a cream cheese such as brie using mango chutney as a spread on bread before you toast it.
Useful tips and tools
- Use the large side of a grater. This will ensure the chutney will cook down, but still have a nice texture not smooth.
- Also, I like to use a heavy bottom saucepan when I need to cook something on low-heat and long time. It's also useful when working with sugar to prevent it from getting burnt.
- Always use clean sterilized jars when storing condiments like jams, pickles, and chutneys, even if you are not going use the canning process. This will ensure that the contents in the jar will last longer.
- And, I like to use a clean wooden spoon for stirring. Please note that wooden spoons can retain flavor, so use one that's not been used for a spicy curry. Alternatively, a clean spatula also works great.
Ingredients and substitutes (Save/Pin)
- Mangoes - I use firm mangoes that are semi-ripe. I find raw mangoes are quite sour while the ripe mangoes are sweet and also tend to become smooth.
- Ginger - Fresh is the way to go. Mango and ginger are an old classic combination that works perfectly every single time.
- Cinnamon - I highly recommend using a whole stick rather than powder. We want the flavor not the taste of cinnamon.
- Cloves, cardamom - It's best to use whole spices. And yet, if you must, use just a pinch of the powder instead.
- Star anise - U
se a whole spice or omit it. Do not use the powder as star anise can be fairly strong.
How to prepare Mangoes for this sweet mango chutney?
- Use large firm semi-ripe mangoes.
- Peel the mangoes with a peeler.
- Grate the mangoes using the large side of the grater.
How to Make A Sweet Mango Chutney (Save/pin)
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan.
- Cook on medium-low for 25 to 30 minutes.
- The sugar will melt and become thick and syrupy at first.
- Then the mixture will reduce to almost half.
- Remove from the heat.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Then store in sterilized jars.
Storage
- I always refrigerate my chutneys.
- This mango chutney will last in the fridge sealed for 3 months.
- Once opened, use it without four weeks.
- If you store the chutney in sterilized jars, using the canning process, you can store it at room temperature for 12 to 14 months in a cool dry place in the pantry.
Canning Process (optional)
Note: This chutney is prepared like a condiment without any perishable ingredients like onions or garlic which makes it possible to preserve it using a canning process.
- Place a rack on the bottom of a large stockpot.
- Half fill the pot with water
- Pour the chutney into the hot sterilized jar as explained above and close the lid
- Bring the water in the pot to a boil on high heat.
- Lower the jars over the rack leaving enough space between the jas.
- The level of water should be at least an inch above the top of the jars. So if necessary pour more boiling water.
- Bring the water to a boil again. Cover the pot and process for 15 minutes
- Remove the jars from the stockpot and place them on a kitchen towel to absorb any excess moisture.
- Let cool completely.
- Press the top of the lid to ensure the seal is tight – the lid should not move at all.
- Store in a cool dry place.
Sweet Mango Chutney or Ginger Mango Chutney
Print Pin RateDescription
Ingredients
- 3 Cup (1 lb) Mango (semi-ripe) grated (500 grams)
- 200 grams (1 cup) White sugar
- 2 tbsp Ginger sliced
- 3 inch Cinnamon stick
- 1 Star anise
- 2 Cardamom pods
- 3 Cloves
- 2 tbsp Vinegar
- 1/4 tsp Salt
Instructions
- Combine all ingredient in a saucepan.
- Cook on medium-low for 25 to 30 minutes.
- The sugar will melt and become thick and syrup at first.
- Then the mixture will reduce to almost half.
- Remove from the heat.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Then store in sterilized jars.
Recipe Notes
Storage
- I always refrigerate my chutneys.
- This mango chutney will last in the fridge sealed for 3 months -
- once opened use it within four weeks.
- If you store the chutney in sterilized jars using the canning process you can store it at room temperature for 12 to 14 months in a cool dry place in the pantry.
Canning Process (optional)
Note: This chutney is prepared like a condiment without any perishable ingredients like onions or garlic which makes it possible to preserve it using a canning process.- Place a rack on the bottom of a large stockpot.
- Half fill the pot with water
- Pour the chutney into the hot sterilized jar as explained above and close the lid
- Bring the water in the pot to a boil on high heat.
- Lower the jars over the rack leaving enough space between the jas.
- The level of water should be at least an inch above the top of the jars. So if necessary pour more boiling water.
- Bring the water to a boil again. Cover the pot and process for 15 minutes
- Remove the jars from the stockpot and place them on a kitchen towel to absorb any excess moisture.
- Let cool completely.
- Press the top of the lid to ensure the seal is tight – the lid should not move at all.
- Store in a cool dry place.
Nutrition Information
The nutrition information and metric conversion are calculated automatically. I cannot guarantee its accuracy. If this data is important to you please verify with your trusted nutrition calculator. Thank you
Frequently asked questions
This mango chutney is a great condiment with mild flavors of warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, etc. Very similar to a pickle this can be eaten accompanied with a meal or just with a slice of bread. Serve it alongside the main course such as fish or chicken. My favorite is to add it in a sandwich with other meats and salad.
Most condiments like chutneys, pickles, jams, and preserves last for about a year if stored well in good conditions. This is a small batch and is not canned, so it will last in the fridge for about a month.
I always refrigerate my chutneys. If you store the chutney in sterilized jars using the canning process you can store it at room temperature for 12 to 14 months in a cool dry place in the pantry.
Cooking chutney is a slow process over medium-low heat. This means the sugar will first melt then combine with the fruit juices and eventually it will cook down. As the sugar cook and thickens it will get that syrup consistency. If you cook the chutney on high-heat quickly it will not go through the natural process of cooking and thickening. So, cook on medium-low, stirring often and watch the magic take place.
Can I make this mango chutney more spicy?
yes, in fact, I do have a spicy mango chutney that absolutely delicious
What is the difference between a chutney and a pickle?
Pickle is usually a vegetable preserved in brine or flavored oil. But in India, both chutneys and pickles often use the same method of cooking fruit or vegetable with vinegar. It is said that chutney is made with pieces of fruit or vegetables while a pickle is made with the whole vegetable. However, I have often made a pickle with cut vegetables and fruits so that's up for debate as far as I'm concerned.
What is the difference between a relish and a chutney?
A relish is made with grated or cut vegetables while the chutney is made with grated or cut fruits. They can be sweet, spicy or both.
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Marisa F. Stewart
I love mangoes!! Every year when they come into season I buy dozens of them. I've never tried making chutney before but it looks so good I could take that spoon and start eating that entire jarful. Wish I had it now -- we're having grilled chicken tonight and it would be perfect along with it.
Veena Azmanov
Me too Marisa. Love mangoes. You must try a chutney, can't stop eating. So good. Perfect on grilled chicken
Diana
I love mango chutney and always order it at Indian restaurants. But I have never thought of making it at home! Thanks for the detailed recipe.
Veena Azmanov
It's so easy to make Diana.
Adriana
I love chutney but have never dared to make it but with your inspiartion, I will try your recipe as the addition of the ginger makes it irresistible.
Veena Azmanov
It's very easy to make homemade chutney Adriana. You must try.
Beth
It's 10:30 at night and I am craving this chutney big time! Mangos are a huge family favorite so I expect this will get spread on everything!
Veena Azmanov
Thanks, Beth. You must try this one. So good.
Caroline
I love mango chutney, at least when it's got a good balance of sweet, tart and spice. Like the sound of the flavorings here.
Veena Azmanov
That's the key Caroline. A good balance of tart, sweet and spice.
Jolina
We cannot get enough of mangoes when they are in season. This is a delicious recipe! I love sweet on savoury dishes like you suggested. And I'm thinking this would be delicious paired with baked goods too.
Veena Azmanov
Us too. Can't get enough of mangoes when they are in season.
Lois Christensen
This looks so delicious and fresh. Perfect for the warmer months coming up! So many ways to enjoy this but right now I'm thinking on homemade toasted bread. Thanks!
Veena Azmanov
Thank you, Lois. Absolutely, so many ways to enjoy this.
Denise
I know it won't be as good but could you use a sugar substitute? I am always try to limit my sugar but this sweet and spicy combination looks great! And I know my hubby would love it too.
Veena Azmanov
Yes, I think you can use a sugar-free substitute. Perhaps less than one cup Denise. I have not tried it so can't say for sure.
Gloria | Homemade & Yummy
I love mangos but have never had mango chutney. This looks delicious and would be the perfect summer condiment. It can be used on so many things.
Veena Azmanov
Absolutely, Gloria. Can you be used in so many things? My favorite is mango chutney with rice crackers.
Shashi at SavorySpin
I have only had spicy mango chutney so your sweet one has me intrigued - it looks lovely and i am so loving that ginger spike in there!
Veena Azmanov
Yes, I do make a spicy chutney as well. I hope to share that this week too. But this sweet one is so good.
Nicolas Hortense
Oh wow I don't think I have ever had a chutney like this before!! Just thinking about all the dishes I could put this on!!
Veena Azmanov
Ah, then you must try, Nicolas. This one is an addiction.
Natalie
Looks so delicious and would make a great addition to any dinner party! I love mango chutney!
Veena Azmanov
Thank you, Natalie. Yes, would be a perfect condiment for a dinner party.
Jacqueline Debono
I love mango chutney but have never made my own. This sounds really easy to make so am definitely going to try it! Pinning for later!
Veena Azmanov
Oh, you must try, Jacqueline. So easy and so delicious
Alexandra
Delicious and full of flavour - so many wonderful uses, and makes a great edible gift for family and friends.
Veena Azmanov
Thanks, Alexandra. Yes, so many uses.