Ginger-Vanilla Apricot Apple Chutney
This delightful Ginger-Vanilla Apricot Apple Chutney is a Jewish-inspired recipe that brings together the sweetness of ripe apples and dried apricots, infused with aromatic ginger and vanilla. Perfect as a condiment for meats, a spread on toast, or a topping for cheese, this chutney harmonizes the flavors of fall in a warm, comforting dish. Not only is it easy to make, but it also serves as a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family. Enjoy this versatile chutney that will elevate any meal!
N/A
Servings
50
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dried apricots
1/2 cup (Quartered)
Apple juice
1 1/3 cups (Unsweetened (add more if needed))
Vanilla bean
1 (Split)
Fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon (Peeled and minced)
Salt
1 pinch
Mixed apples
6 cups (Peeled, cored, and cut into chunks (about 6 apples, such as Gala & Braeburn))
Instructions
1
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the quartered dried apricots, 1 1/3 cups of unsweetened apple juice, the split vanilla bean, minced fresh ginger, and a pinch of salt. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 25 minutes, until the apricots are very tender.
2
Once the apricots are soft, add the peeled, cored, and chopped apples to the saucepan. Continue to cook, covered, for another 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the mixture becomes too dry, add more apple juice as needed.
3
The mixture is done when it has thickened to a pulpy consistency with no visible liquid remaining. If it appears a bit watery, uncover and boil for a few minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
4
After cooking, remove the vanilla bean and discard it. Use a food processor or a hand-held masher to blend the chutney to your desired consistency—smooth or chunky.
5
Transfer the chutney to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until cool. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
0.08g
Fat
12.5g
Carbs
0.42g
Protein
0.83g
Fiber
8.33g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ginger-Vanilla Apricot Apple Chutney?
It is a Jewish-inspired condiment made from ripe apples and dried apricots infused with ginger and vanilla bean, perfect for meats, toast, or cheese.
What are the primary ingredients in this chutney?
The main ingredients include dried apricots, unsweetened apple juice, a vanilla bean, fresh ginger, salt, and mixed apples like Gala or Braeburn.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, this Ginger-Vanilla Apricot Apple Chutney is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products.
How many calories are in a serving of this chutney?
There are approximately 50 calories per serving.
What types of apples should I use?
The recipe recommends using a mix of apples, specifically suggesting Gala and Braeburn for the best flavor and texture.
How long does it take to cook the apricots?
The quartered dried apricots should simmer in apple juice for about 25 minutes until they are very tender.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Yes, for the best consistency, the apples should be peeled, cored, and cut into chunks.
How do I prepare the vanilla bean?
The vanilla bean should be split lengthwise before adding it to the saucepan to allow the seeds to infuse the chutney.
What should I do if the chutney is too dry during cooking?
If the mixture becomes too dry while simmering, simply add more apple juice as needed.
How do I know when the chutney is finished cooking?
The chutney is done when it reaches a thick, pulpy consistency with no visible liquid remaining.
What if the chutney is too watery at the end?
If it appears watery, uncover the pan and boil the mixture for a few minutes to evaporate the excess liquid.
Should I keep the vanilla bean in the final dish?
No, you should remove and discard the vanilla bean after the cooking process is complete.
How can I achieve a smooth consistency?
You can use a food processor or a hand-held masher to blend the chutney to your desired level of smoothness or chunkiness.
How should this chutney be served?
It can be served either chilled or at room temperature.
How should I store the finished chutney?
Transfer the chutney to a bowl, cover it, and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to serve.
Is there any added sugar in this recipe?
No, the sweetness comes naturally from the apples, dried apricots, and unsweetened apple juice.
Can I use this recipe as a gift?
Yes, this homemade chutney makes a wonderful gift for friends and family, especially during the fall season.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
How much ginger is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of peeled and minced fresh ginger.
What is the total cooking time for the apples?
The apples are added after the apricots have softened and should cook for an additional 25 minutes.
Can I use bottled apple juice?
Yes, as long as it is unsweetened apple juice.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is low in fat (0.08g) and contains fiber (0.83g) and protein (0.42g).
What makes this chutney 'Jewish-inspired'?
The combination of apples and honey-like sweetness from apricots is common in Jewish cuisine, especially for holidays like Rosh Hashanah.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 12.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use a different fruit besides apricots?
While the recipe specifies apricots, you could experiment with dried figs or cranberries, though the flavor profile will change.
Does this chutney contain sodium?
The recipe includes one pinch of salt, but the specific sodium content is not calculated.
What type of saucepan is best for this recipe?
A large, heavy-bottomed saucepan is recommended to ensure even heat distribution and prevent sticking.
How many apples are needed for 6 cups?
It typically takes about 6 medium-sized apples to produce 6 cups of chunks.
Can I serve this with cheese?
Yes, it is an excellent topping for various types of cheese on a charcuterie board.
Is the ginger flavor very strong?
With only 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ginger for a large batch, the flavor is aromatic and warm rather than overpowering.