Heavenly Fig & Ginger Chutney
Indulge in the exquisite combination of fresh and dried figs paired with the zesty warmth of ginger in this Heavenly Fig & Ginger Chutney. Crafted from the bounty of my fig trees, this chutney transforms the rich sweetness of figs into a delightful companion for cheese boards, cold meats, and charcuterie platters. The aromatic spices and vibrant ingredients meld together to create a luscious, velvety spread that enhances everything from a simple toasted sandwich to gourmet dishes. Its unique flavor profile ensures that it won't last long in your pantry, making it a favorite among family and friends who eagerly anticipate their own jar of this delightful creation. Serve it alongside your favorite cheeses or relishes, and watch it elevate your culinary experiences to new heights.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh figs
850 g (chopped)
dried figs
400 g (chopped)
red onions
3 large (finely chopped)
Bramley apples
3 medium (peeled and chopped)
fresh gingerroot
40 g (cut into fine matchsticks)
ground allspice
2 teaspoons
dried chili pepper flakes
1 pinch
finely grated lemon zest
2 teaspoons
demerara sugar
700 g
salt
2 teaspoons
red wine vinegar
800 ml
fresh ground black pepper
2 teaspoons
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, combine chopped fresh figs, dried figs, finely chopped red onions, peeled and chopped Bramley apples, matchstick-cut fresh ginger, ground allspice, chili flakes, lemon zest, demerara sugar, salt, red wine vinegar, and ground black pepper.
2
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pan.
3
Simmer the chutney for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, uncover the saucepan and continue to simmer for an additional 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring frequently. Watch the chutney thicken and reduce, and if it starts to look dry, add a splash of water as needed.
4
Taste the chutney occasionally and adjust the seasoning with additional brown sugar, vinegar, or chili flakes if desired to ensure a balanced flavor.
5
Once thick and richly flavored, transfer the chutney into sterilized jars. Seal the jars immediately. Allow the chutney to cool to room temperature before storing.
6
Store the chutney in a cool, dark place for up to 8-9 months when unopened. After opening, refrigerate and consume within 4 weeks.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Heavenly Fig & Ginger Chutney?
It is a rich, velvety spread made from a combination of fresh and dried figs, zesty ginger, Bramley apples, and aromatic spices, ideal for cheese boards and charcuterie.
What types of figs are required for this recipe?
This recipe uses both fresh figs (850g) and dried figs (400g) to create a complex depth of flavor and texture.
Why are Bramley apples used in the chutney?
Bramley apples are used because they are excellent cooking apples that break down well, providing a tart balance to the sweet figs and helping to thicken the chutney.
How should the fresh ginger be prepared?
The gingerroot should be peeled and cut into fine matchsticks to ensure a zesty warmth in every bite.
What kind of vinegar is recommended?
The recipe specifically calls for 800 ml of red wine vinegar to provide the necessary acidity for preservation and flavor.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the chutney?
Yes, you can taste the chutney during the simmering process and add more demerara sugar if a sweeter profile is desired.
How long does the chutney need to simmer?
The chutney should simmer covered for 30 minutes, followed by an additional 1.5 to 2 hours uncovered until thickened.
What should I do if the chutney becomes too dry while cooking?
If the mixture starts to look dry during the long simmering process, you can add a splash of water as needed.
Is this chutney spicy?
It has a mild warmth from the fresh ginger and a pinch of dried chili pepper flakes, but it is not intensely spicy.
What is the purpose of demerara sugar in this recipe?
Demerara sugar provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the earthy tones of the figs and ginger.
How should I store the jars once they are filled?
The jars should be sealed immediately and allowed to cool to room temperature before being stored in a cool, dark place.
How long will unopened jars of fig chutney last?
When stored properly in a cool, dark place, unopened jars can last for up to 8 to 9 months.
How long does the chutney stay fresh after opening?
Once a jar is opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 4 weeks.
What are the best food pairings for this chutney?
It pairs beautifully with cheese boards, cold meats, charcuterie platters, and even gourmet toasted sandwiches.
Do I need to sterilize the jars?
Yes, for proper preservation and shelf life, the chutney must be transferred into sterilized jars while hot.
What role does lemon zest play in the recipe?
Finely grated lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the figs and sugar.
How many onions are needed?
The recipe requires 3 large red onions, which should be finely chopped.
What spices are included in the recipe?
The primary spices used are ground allspice and freshly ground black pepper.
Can I add more heat to the recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the seasoning with additional chili flakes if you prefer a spicier chutney.
What is the total weight of figs used?
The recipe uses a total of 1.25 kilograms of figs (850g fresh and 400g dried).
Should the pan be covered during cooking?
The pan should be covered for the first 30 minutes of simmering and then uncovered for the remainder of the time to allow for reduction.
Why do I need to stir the chutney frequently?
Frequent stirring prevents the sugar-rich mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning as it thickens.
Is this chutney a good gift idea?
Yes, it is highly sought after by friends and family and makes an excellent homemade culinary gift.
What is the texture of the finished chutney?
The finished chutney is thick, luscious, and velvety with small pieces of fruit and ginger throughout.
Can I use green onions instead of red?
Red onions are preferred for their sweetness and color, which matches the dark, rich profile of the figs.
How much salt is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of salt to balance the sweet and acidic flavors.
When should I add the black pepper?
Ground black pepper is added at the beginning with all the other ingredients in the large saucepan.
Can I use white vinegar instead?
Red wine vinegar is recommended for its specific flavor profile, but white wine vinegar could be used as a substitute if necessary.
Does the chutney thicken more as it cools?
Yes, like most preserves, the chutney will continue to set and thicken further once it cools in the jar.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 main ingredients used to create this Heavenly Fig & Ginger Chutney.