Tomato Chutney
Sweet, tangy, and gently spiced, this homemade tomato chutney is a cozy way to capture the bright flavor of ripe tomatoes. Spoon it alongside cheese and crackers, spread it on sandwiches, or serve it with your favorite savory dishes for a delicious little burst of warmth.
Key Ingredients
tomatoes- They add a great pop of sweetness to this chutney. You can use any small or medium tomato, as long as they are fresh and sweet. In this case I used baby tomatoes.
Onions- sweet onion or vedalias are great for this chutney.
Aromatics like cinnamon sticks, garlic, basil leaves, add such a wonderful flavor to this Indian condiment.
Spices; paprika, adds that smokiness, along with salt and pepper for taste.
Acids like red wine vinegar is needed for balance and brightness. The aged balsamic vinegar adds a great aged and sweet tangy taste to the chutney.
Tomato Chutney
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook time: About 40 minutes
Yield: About 4 -8 ounce jam jars
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1½ pounds medley baby tomatoes, halved
½ cup thinly sliced sweet onion
1 large garlic clove, grated
½ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
½ teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon onion salt
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cinnamon stick
4–5 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with a little water to make a slurry
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the tomatoes and drop in the cinnamon stick; Continue cooking over medium-heat, stirring frequently, until the tomatoes begin to break down. slow and low is the way to go.
when the tomatoes have broken down , stir in the brown sugar, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, garlic salt, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
remember to take out the cinnamon stick
Use a potato masher to mash the tomatoes to your desired consistency.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking until the mixture reaches a jam-like consistency.
Stir in the basil. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
give this recipe a good 40 minutes to cook. The longer the better.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a cheese board, especially aged cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese.
· Spread on toast, biscuits, or warm crusty bread.
· Use as a flavorful condiment for sandwiches, burgers, or grilled cheese.
· Spoon alongside roasted chicken, pork, sausages, or grilled vegetables.
· Serve with curries, rice dishes, or savory grain bowls.
· Add a small spoonful to crostini with soft cheese for an easy appetizer.