Mary Berry’s Tomato Chutney is a flavorful and tangy preserve that adds a burst of rich tomato goodness to any meal. This homemade chutney is perfect for pairing with cheese, spreading on sandwiches, or serving alongside grilled meats. The combination of ripe tomatoes, aromatic spices, and a hint of sweetness creates a well-balanced condiment that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to make Mary Berry’s Tomato Chutney, with tips to ensure it’s perfectly spiced and delicious every time.
What is Mary Berry Tomato Chutney?
Mary Berry Tomato Chutney is a traditional British condiment made from ripe tomatoes, onions, vinegar, and a blend of spices. It’s known for its thick, chunky texture and sweet-tangy flavor that complements a wide variety of dishes.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The slow-cooked tomatoes and spices develop a deep, rich flavor that’s both sweet and tangy.
- Versatile Use: Perfect as a spread, dip, or accompaniment to meats, cheeses, and more.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find.
- Long Shelf Life: This can be stored for months, making it a great make-ahead condiment.
- Homemade Goodness: Nothing beats the taste and quality of homemade chutney.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Tomato Chutney
- Ripe Tomatoes: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs), chopped.
- Onions: 500g (1.1 lbs), finely chopped.
- Granulated Sugar: 250g (8.8 oz), to sweeten and preserve the chutney.
- Red Wine Vinegar: 300 ml (10 fl oz), adds acidity and balance.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Ground Ginger: 1 teaspoon, for a warm, spicy note.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, adds depth of flavor.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the flavors.
- Chili Flakes: 1 teaspoon, optional, for a hint of heat.
Useful Equipment
- Large Saucepan: For cooking the chutney mixture.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring the chutney while it cooks.
- Jam Jars: Sterilized jars with lids to store the chutney.
- Ladle: Transfer the hot chutney into the jars.
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Tomato Chutney
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping the tomatoes. Finely chop the onions and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped tomatoes, onions, garlic, sugar, and red wine vinegar. Stir in the ground ginger, ground cinnamon, salt, and chili flakes if using.
Step 3: Cook the Chutney
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chutney has thickened and reduced.
Step 4: Test the Chutney
The chutney is ready when it has a thick, jam-like consistency, and most of the liquid has evaporated. If it’s too runny, continue cooking until it reaches the desired thickness.
Step 5: Jar the Chutney
Carefully ladle the hot chutney into sterilized jars, leaving a small gap at the top. Seal the jars tightly with lids.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place. The chutney will continue to develop its flavors as it matures.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Tomato Chutney?
- Pair with Cheese: Perfect with a variety of cheeses on a cheeseboard.
- Spread on Sandwiches: Adds a tangy, flavorful kick to sandwiches and wraps.
- Serve with Grilled Meats: Complements the rich flavors of grilled or roasted meats.
- Top on Burgers: A tasty alternative to ketchup on burgers.
- Dip for Crackers: Serve as a dip with crackers for a simple snack.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Tomato Chutney
- Use Ripe Tomatoes: The riper the tomatoes, the richer the flavor of the chutney.
- Stir Occasionally: To prevent the chutney from sticking to the bottom of the pan, stir occasionally while cooking.
- Sterilize Jars Properly: To ensure a long shelf life, sterilize your jars before filling them.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili flakes.
- Let it Mature: The chutney’s flavor improves with time, so let it mature for a few weeks before using.
Variations of Mary Berry Tomato Chutney
- Add Apples: For a fruity twist, add chopped apples to the chutney.
- Include Raisins: Stir in a handful of raisins for added sweetness and texture.
- Spice it Up: Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier chutney.
- Use Brown Sugar: Substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
- Infuse with Herbs: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary for a herbal note.
How Do I Store Mary Berry Tomato Chutney Leftovers?
- Keep in the Fridge: Store opened jars in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.
- Freeze for Later: Chutney can be frozen in freezer-safe containers for up to six months.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store jars in a cool, dark place to preserve the chutney.
- Check for Spoilage: Always check for any signs of mold before using.
How Do I Reheat Mary Berry Tomato Chutney Leftovers?
- Microwave: Heat gently in the microwave to soften if needed.
- Stovetop: Warm slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Stir Before Use: Always stir the chutney after reheating to restore its consistency.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 30 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Vitamin C: 10% of the Daily Value
FAQs
How long does homemade Mary Berry Tomato Chutney last?
Homemade Mary Berry Tomato Chutney can last up to 12 months when stored in sterilized jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the chutney in the refrigerator and use it within 3 weeks.
Can I use canned tomatoes to make Mary Berry Tomato Chutney?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. However, the flavor and texture may be slightly different, so adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Why is my Mary Berry Tomato Chutney too watery?
If your chutney is too watery, it may need to cook longer to evaporate more liquid. Continue simmering until the chutney reaches a thick, jam-like consistency.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes for Mary Berry Tomato Chutney?
Peeling the tomatoes is optional. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel them before chopping, but leaving the skins on adds texture and is quicker.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Tomato Chutney is a delicious and versatile condiment that’s easy to make at home. With its rich, tangy flavor and chunky texture, it’s the perfect addition to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re serving it with cheese, spreading it on sandwiches, or using it as a flavorful dip, this homemade chutney is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the taste of homemade goodness in every spoonful!