Experience the tangy delight of Gooseberry Chutney, a gem from my treasured collection of Newfoundland community cookbooks from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. This recipe perfectly captures the essence of Newfoundland’s love for preserving the bounties of nature, transforming tart gooseberries into a flavorful chutney that’s both versatile and delicious.
Gooseberry Chutney combines the zesty sharpness of gooseberries with a blend of spices, sugar, and vinegar, creating a condiment that’s bursting with layers of flavor. This chutney pairs wonderfully with meats, cheeses, and even as a spread for sandwiches, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.
Making this chutney is a celebration of Newfoundland’s tradition of home canning and preserving. It’s a way to enjoy the fresh, tangy taste of gooseberries long after their season has passed. The process is straightforward, and the result is a chutney that’s rich in both flavor and heritage.
Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner table or find a unique gift for friends, Gooseberry Chutney is sure to impress. Its vibrant taste and versatile use make it a standout in any culinary repertoire. Embrace a piece of Newfoundland’s culinary history with every spoonful of this delightful chutney.
Gooseberry Chutney Recipe:
- 2 quarts cider vinegar
- 12 cups brown sugar
- 12 cups gooseberries, green or acid apples
- 3 cups raisins (Valencia—stoned and sliced)
- 6 cups sultana raisins, finely minced
- 1 cup salt
- 1 cup whole ginger (broken into ½ inch pieces)
- 1/4 cup garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup mustard seed (husked)
Make syrup by boiling vinegar and sugar together. Let it cool.
Add other ingredients to the cooled syrup and then boil for 5 minutes.
Bottle when cold.
Note: This is very good with cold meat.
Chutney, a versatile and flavorful condiment, adds a burst of taste to countless dishes across the culinary world. This delightful accompaniment originates from the Indian subcontinent but has gained international popularity for its ability to elevate the flavors of various cuisines. Chutneys are typically a blend of fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, and vinegar or lemon juice, resulting in a harmonious balance of sweet, spicy, tangy, and savoury flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it with crispy samosas, as a topping for grilled meats, or as a spread for sandwiches, chutney’s diversity knows no bounds.
