It’s that time of year again when I start to think about and planning for Christmas. As you may have guessed, I like to make as many things as I can for Christmas presents, but being the lazy madam that I am, I usually leave it all until the last minute. This year I am attempting to turn over a new leaf and start sooner, so last night I made my lists and whipped up a batch of Christmas chutney. Last year I wanted to make some, but it is best left to sit for a month before using and, of course, I’d left it too late!

This recipe will make two 454g jars (with a little bit left over for your cheese and biscuits!)

Ingredients

1 onion, finely chopped

2 tsp ground mixed spice

1/2 tsp ground cloves

2 large Bramley apples, diced

500g dried mixed fruit

300g soft light brown sugar

150ml white wine vinegar

Method

  1. Gently sauté the chopped onions in a little oil in a large saucepan until they have softened, then add the ground spices and cook for another minute.
  2. Add the diced apple and dried fruit to the pan and stir it all together.
  3. Put the sugar and white wine vinegar into the pan and stir the mixture until it is well combined.
  4. Bring the chutney to the boil then simmer for 45 minutes – 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has reduced.
  5. Spoon the chutney into sterilised jars and seal with vinegar-proof lids or a waxed paper circle and cellophane.

As I mentioned earlier, the chutney is best kept in a cool, dark place for a month. Jazz the jar up with a pretty label and fabric cover and add it to your Christmas hampers.