Description
Fig chutney is a sweet and tangy condiment made with fresh or dried figs, vinegar, onions, and spices. It’s cooked down to a thick, jam-like consistency and can be enjoyed with cheese, meats, or as a sandwich spread.
Ingredients
- 500g fresh figs, quartered (or dried figs, chopped)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 150g brown sugar
- 200ml apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 fresh chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
Begin by quartering the fresh figs or chopping the dried figs if using. Finely chop the onions, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Set these aside.
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and lightly golden. Add the minced garlic, mustard seeds, grated ginger, and chili (if using), and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the chopped figs, ensuring they are well mixed with the onions and spices. Allow the figs to soften slightly, about 5 minutes.
Pour in the apple cider vinegar and add the brown sugar, cinnamon stick, and ground cloves. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chutney should thicken and the figs will break down into a jam-like consistency. If the chutney thickens too much, you can add a splash of water to loosen it.
Taste the chutney and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. Adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding a little more sugar or vinegar if needed.
Once the chutney has thickened and reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Transfer the chutney to sterilized jars and seal tightly. Store in the fridge for immediate use or in a cool, dark place for long-term storage.