Red chilli chutney

Red Chilli Chutney - Spicy Pepper Jam

Welcome to the fascinating world of flavors! Today, I will introduce you to a captivating recipe for Red Chilli Chutney, a sauce that perfectly blends sweet, sour, and spicy. This spicy pepper jam will not only enhance the taste of your dishes but will also become a cherished delicacy among your loved ones. Additionally, it is an excellent way to preserve hot peppers and enjoy their vibrant aroma all year round.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 2 jars (400g each)

Ingredients:
- 500g red hot peppers, seeded and deveined
- 500g sugar
- 500ml vinegar

Practical tips about ingredients:
Hot peppers are the base of this recipe, and choosing them is essential. Make sure to use fresh peppers, free from spots or signs of damage. Pepper varieties can vary in intensity, so if you want a milder chutney, try mixing hot peppers with a sweeter variety, such as red bell peppers.

Sugar serves to balance the acidity of the vinegar and add a touch of sweetness. Vinegar, preferably wine or apple vinegar, will bring a complex flavor to the chutney. If you desire a more exotic taste, consider using balsamic vinegar.

Preparation technique:
1. Preparing the peppers: Start by seeding and deveining the peppers. Use gloves to avoid skin irritation. Once cleaned, cut them into smaller pieces and finely chop them using a food processor.

2. Preparing the syrup: In a medium saucepan, add the vinegar and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. Continue to boil until the mixture thickens, having a consistency similar to a jam syrup.

3. Adding the peppers: Once the syrup is ready, add the chopped peppers and mix well. Let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chutney is ready when it reaches a thicker consistency, similar to that of a jam.

4. Bottling: Pour the hot chutney into sterilized jars, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. Seal tightly and turn the jars upside down for a few minutes to create a vacuum. This step is essential for keeping the chutney fresh and preventing bacterial growth.

5. Cooling: Once the jars have cooled, wrap them in a blanket and leave them like that until the next day. The chutney will improve in flavor over time, and the heat will mellow, allowing the sweet and sour to shine through.

Personal note: This recipe has a rich history, being used in various cultures as a way to preserve vegetables and add extra flavor to dishes. It’s perfect for serving alongside cheeses, grilled meats, or as a condiment for sandwiches.

Frequently asked questions:
- What can I do if the chutney is too spicy? If you find the chutney too spicy for your taste, you can dilute it with a bit more sugar or vinegar. Additionally, adding sweeter ingredients, such as apples or peaches, can help balance the flavors.
- How long can the chutney be stored? If stored properly, chutney can be consumed for several months. Make sure the jars are tightly sealed and store them in a cool, dark place.

Delicious pairings: Red Chilli Chutney is versatile and can be used in various ways. Try it on a slice of toasted bread with fresh cheese or even in taco fillings. It’s delicious alongside grilled chicken or pork, giving them a spicy and savory flavor.

Nutritional benefits: Hot peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, and they also have anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming hot peppers can boost metabolism and have beneficial effects on digestive health.

I encourage you to experiment with this Red Chilli Chutney recipe and adapt it to your tastes and preferences. Whether you use it as a sauce for dishes or as a special ingredient in various preparations, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the intense flavors of hot peppers. Enjoy your meal!