Zesty Mango-Chili Preserves
Capture the tropical essence of ripe mangoes with this Zesty Mango-Chili Preserves recipe. Infused with the warmth of ginger and a hint of heat from red chiles, these vibrant preserves are perfect for spreading on breakfast toast, drizzling over desserts, or adding to savory dishes for a unique twist. The zesty brightness of lemon juice and zest balances the sweetness of light brown sugar, while sultanas contribute a delightful chewiness. Enjoy making this unique preserve to savor the flavors of summer all year round or to delight your friends with homemade gifts from the heart.
N/A
Servings
857
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mangoes
4 (peeled and finely chopped)
Red Chile
1-2 (seeded and chopped)
Gingerroot
2 inches (peeled and grated)
Lemon
2 (juice and zest of, grated)
Water
2 1/2 cups (none)
Light Brown Sugar
1 lb (none)
Sultanas or Golden Raisins
1 cup (none)
Balsamic Vinegar
2-3 tablespoons (none)
Instructions
1
Start by peeling and finely chopping the ripe mangoes. Make sure to remove the pit and any fibrous bits to ensure a smooth consistency in your preserves.
2
In a large heavy-bottomed pan, combine the chopped mangoes, seeded and chopped red chile, and freshly grated ginger. Add the grated lemon zest and juice to the mixture.
3
Pour in 2 1/2 cups of water, stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mango to soften.
5
After 20 minutes, gradually stir in the light brown sugar, mixing thoroughly until completely dissolved. Increase the heat to medium-high and allow the mixture to come to a rolling boil.
6
Boil the mixture for approximately 10 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens to your desired consistency. You can test for doneness by placing a small amount on a chilled plate and seeing if it holds its shape.
7
Once thickened, add the sultanas or golden raisins and the balsamic vinegar, stirring well to incorporate these last ingredients. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to combine flavors.
8
Remove the pan from heat and allow the preserves to cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
9
While still warm, carefully transfer the preserves into sterilized jars. Seal them according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure freshness.
Nutrition Information
0g
Fat
214g
Carbs
3g
Protein
171g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Mango-Chili Preserves?
Zesty Mango-Chili Preserves are a tropical spread made from ripe mangoes, red chiles, and ginger, offering a balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
How many mangoes are required for this recipe?
You will need 4 ripe mangoes that have been peeled and finely chopped.
What type of sugar is used in these preserves?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of light brown sugar to provide sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
Can I substitute the sultanas?
Yes, you can use golden raisins if sultanas are not available.
How do I prepare the ginger for the recipe?
You should take 2 inches of gingerroot, peel it, and then finely grate it.
What role does lemon play in this recipe?
The juice and zest of 2 lemons are used to provide acidity and brightness to balance the sweetness.
How much water should I add to the mixture?
Add 2 1/2 cups of water to the mango and chile mixture before boiling.
When do I add the balsamic vinegar?
The balsamic vinegar is added at the end, along with the sultanas, once the mixture has thickened.
How long should the mangoes simmer before adding sugar?
The mixture should simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the fruit to soften.
How long do I boil the preserves after adding the sugar?
Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a rolling boil for approximately 10 minutes until thickened.
How can I test if the preserves are the right consistency?
You can test for doneness by placing a small amount on a chilled plate to see if it holds its shape.
What kind of chile is used in this recipe?
The recipe suggests using 1-2 red chiles, which should be seeded and chopped.
What is the total calorie count for this recipe?
The total recipe contains approximately 857 calories.
How much sugar is in the entire batch?
There are 171g of sugar in the total recipe.
Is there any fat in these mango preserves?
No, this recipe contains 0g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
There are 214g of carbohydrates in the total batch.
Should I remove the mango pits?
Yes, ensure you remove the pit and any fibrous bits for a smooth consistency.
What type of pan is best for making preserves?
A large heavy-bottomed pan is recommended to ensure even heating and prevent burning.
How long should I let the preserves cool before jarring?
Allow the preserves to cool slightly for about 10 minutes before transferring them to jars.
Are these preserves a good gift idea?
Yes, they are described as a delightful homemade gift from the heart.
Can I use these preserves on savory dishes?
Absolutely, they can be used to add a unique twist to various savory dishes.
How do I seal the jars?
Seal the sterilized jars according to the manufacturer's instructions while the preserves are still warm.
What is the protein content of this recipe?
The entire recipe contains about 3g of protein.
Do I need to seed the chiles?
Yes, the recipe specifies that the chiles should be seeded before being chopped.
What is the primary fruit in this preserve?
The primary fruit used is ripe mango.
Can I serve this over dessert?
Yes, drizzling these preserves over desserts is a recommended serving suggestion.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The specific number of servings is not listed, but it fills multiple sterilized jars.
What is the heat level of this preserve?
It has a hint of heat from the red chiles and warmth from the ginger, creating a sweet and spicy profile.
What is the texture of the preserves?
The preserves have a thick consistency with delightful chewiness from the sultanas.
Can I use frozen mangoes?
While fresh is preferred for the best tropical essence, frozen mangoes can be used if thawed and chopped.