Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney is a tantalizing blend of rich, sweet, and tangy flavors with a subtle kick of spice that pairs wonderfully with meats, cheeses, or even as a spread on sandwiches, making it a versatile and exciting addition to your kitchen repertoire.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney

Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney is a beautifully balanced condiment that combines ripe plums, vinegar, sugar, and an array of aromatic spices. The chutney is sweet with a little sourness from the plums, and the spices-like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves-add a delightful warmth and complexity to the dish.

This chutney is perfect for elevating simple meals such as roasted meats, curries, cheese platters, or even grilled vegetables. The tangy and savory nature of chutney, paired with its rich depth of flavor, makes it a unique and delicious accompaniment that can be enjoyed year-round.

Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney, you will need the following ingredients:

• Plums: About 1kg of ripe plums, pitted and chopped.
• Onions: 2 large onions, finely chopped.
• Vinegar: 250ml of apple cider vinegar or malt vinegar for a tart contrast.
• Sugar: 400g of brown sugar (dark or light) to provide a deep sweetness.
• Ginger: Freshly grated ginger (around 1 tablespoon) adds warmth and spice.
• Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced for an aromatic base.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for that familiar, comforting spice.
• Ground Cloves: 1/2 teaspoon to give the chutney a fragrant depth.
• Ground Allspice: 1/2 teaspoon to add another layer of complexity.
• Salt: A pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
• Water: 100ml of water to help bring the ingredients together during cooking.

Equipment Needed

For making this chutney, the following kitchen equipment will come in handy:

• Large saucepan: To cook all the ingredients together.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring the chutney as it cooks.
• Chopping board and knife: To prepare the plums, onions, and garlic.
• Grater: To grate fresh ginger.
• Sterilized jars: To store the chutney after it’s cooked and cooled. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids work best.
• Measuring spoons and cups: To measure the sugar, vinegar, and spices accurately.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney?

Making this spiced plum chutney is straightforward and requires patience to let the flavors develop during cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide to create the chutney:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by pitting and chopping the plums. Peel and finely chop the onions and garlic, and grate the ginger.
2. Cook the Base: In a large saucepan, add the chopped onions, garlic, and grated ginger. Pour in a small amount of oil and gently cook over medium heat until the onions soften and become translucent.
3. Add Plums and Spices: Once the onions are soft, add the plums, sugar, vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently.
4. Simmer and Stir: Allow the chutney to cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. During this time, the mixture will thicken, and the plums will break down.
5. Taste and Adjust: Once the chutney has thickened to your liking, taste it. If you feel it needs a little more sweetness or acidity, adjust with more sugar or vinegar accordingly.
6. Jar the Chutney: When the chutney has reached a thick, jam-like consistency, remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars. Make sure to pack the chutney in tightly, and ensure the jars are sealed properly.
7. Let it Mature: For the best flavor, let the chutney sit in the jars for at least a couple of weeks before using. The chutney improves as it matures, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Expert Tips

• Plum Variety: The type of plums you use can affect the flavor. For a sweeter chutney, use a variety of plums like Santa Rosa. For a slightly more tart chutney, opt for damson plums.
• Spice Adjustments: If you like a little more heat, consider adding a chopped chili pepper to the chutney. Alternatively, for a more aromatic twist, add a touch of star anise.
• Storage: Ensure that your jars are sterilized by placing them in a preheated oven at 100°C (212°F) for 10 minutes, or boiling them in water for 5-10 minutes. This will help preserve the chutney for longer periods.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the chutney with cheeses, cold cuts, or as a side to a roasted chicken or pork dish. It also works wonderfully in sandwiches or as an accompaniment to curries.
• Consistency Check: If you want a smoother chutney, you can use an immersion blender to break down the fruit, but make sure to leave a little texture for that traditional chutney feel.

Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney is a versatile and flavorful condiment that brings a delightful complexity to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re serving it with meats, cheeses, or simply enjoying it with crackers, the sweet and tangy notes, combined with aromatic spices, will elevate any meal. Plus, with a straightforward recipe and minimal preparation, this chutney is an easy way to impress your guests and create something that will last.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney

Jamie Oliver’s spiced plum chutney is a delightful and aromatic condiment, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. If you want to experiment or tailor the recipe to suit your preferences, there are numerous variations that you can try. Whether you’re looking for a spicier, fruitier, or more tangy chutney, here are a few ideas to make it your own:

1. Add More Fruits: While plums are the star of the chutney, incorporating additional fruits can bring a different depth of flavor. Apples or pears, for instance, add a subtle sweetness and texture that works wonderfully with the rich spices. Consider using figs or apricots for a more exotic twist.
2. Adjust the Heat: If you’re a fan of spicier chutneys, you can experiment by adding chili peppers, such as red chilies or jalapeños, to the mix. The seeds and membranes of the peppers contain much of the heat, so you can control the spice level by adjusting the amount or removing the seeds for a milder heat.
3. Infuse with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or mint can elevate the chutney’s flavor profile. Add the herbs early in the cooking process for a more infused flavor, or add them at the end to retain their fresh, vibrant qualities.
4. Tinker with Vinegar: While the original recipe may use white wine vinegar, swapping it for apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar can give the chutney a deeper or sweeter tang. Balsamic vinegar, in particular, will introduce a caramelized note that complements the fruit’s sweetness.
5. Sweeten with Honey or Maple Syrup: For a natural, richer sweetness, try swapping sugar with honey or maple syrup. These alternatives will add a bit of floral or earthy sweetness, giving your chutney a distinctive flavor. Adjust the quantities to taste, as both honey and maple syrup tend to be sweeter than sugar.
6. Spice it Up with More Aromatics: While the recipe may already include spices like ginger and cinnamon, consider adding ground cloves, cardamom, or mustard seeds for additional complexity. Each spice brings something unique: cloves add warmth, cardamom introduces a citrusy note, and mustard seeds offer a subtle tang.
7. Infused Spirits: For an adult twist, you can add a splash of rum, brandy, or even bourbon to the chutney during the cooking process. The alcohol helps to mellow the spices while bringing in rich, deep undertones. This variation works wonderfully with rich meats like pork or game.

By incorporating some of these variations, you can tailor Jamie Oliver’s spiced plum chutney to suit your taste or match the dish you’re pairing it with. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this chutney uniquely yours.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Once you’ve made your spiced plum chutney, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its flavor and freshness. Here are the best practices to ensure your chutney stays in top condition:

1. Cool Before Storing: Always allow the chutney to cool completely before transferring it to jars or containers. Storing warm chutney can result in condensation inside the jar, leading to spoilage and a compromised texture.
2. Use Sterilized Jars: When storing chutney for long-term use, it’s crucial to use sterilized jars. Wash the jars thoroughly, then place them in a hot oven (around 180°C/350°F) for 10-15 minutes to kill any bacteria. This helps prolong the shelf life of your chutney.
3. Sealing for Preservation: After filling the sterilized jars, ensure they are sealed tightly. If you want to go the extra mile, some people recommend processing the jars in a hot water bath (also called a “canning” method) for 10 minutes to create a vacuum seal, which can extend the chutney’s shelf life for several months.
4. Refrigerate for Quick Use: Once opened, chutney should be refrigerated to preserve its freshness. It’s best to consume chutney within a few weeks of opening, but the vinegar content should allow it to last for several months when stored properly in the fridge.
5. Avoid Cross-Contamination: When serving chutney, always use clean utensils. Avoid dipping your spoon back into the jar after it has been used to avoid contamination, which could spoil the chutney faster.
6. Label Your Jars: If you’re making multiple jars, especially for gifts or future use, consider labeling your chutney with the date it was made. This helps you track how long it’s been stored and ensures that you use it while it’s still at its best.
7. Check for Signs of Spoilage: While chutney has a long shelf life due to its vinegar and sugar content, always check for any signs of spoilage, such as mold growth or an off smell. If the chutney has changed color or texture significantly, it’s time to toss it.

By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy your chutney at its peak flavor even weeks or months after making it.

What Goes Well With Spiced Plum Chutney?

Spiced plum chutney is an incredibly versatile condiment, pairing well with a wide range of foods. Here are some delicious ideas for what to serve alongside or with this chutney:

1. Cheese Platters: A classic combination for chutney is with a variety of cheeses. Soft cheeses like brie, goat cheese, and camembert pair beautifully with the sweet and tangy notes of the chutney. Hard cheeses such as cheddar and gouda also work wonderfully, creating a delightful contrast between creamy and sharp flavors.
2. Grilled Meats: The deep, aromatic flavor of spiced plum chutney complements grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or pork. The chutney’s sweetness balances the smokiness of the grill and adds an extra layer of richness to the meat.
3. Curries and Rice Dishes: Chutney is often used in Indian cuisine to enhance the flavors of curries and rice. The sweetness of the chutney offsets the heat and spice of curry dishes, making it the perfect accompaniment to a hearty curry, biryani, or pilaf.
4. Cold Cuts and Charcuterie: Chutney makes an excellent pairing with cold cuts like salami, prosciutto, or pâté. The sharp, savory flavors of the meats are balanced by the chutney’s sweetness, creating a harmonious bite.
5. Roasted Vegetables: If you’re serving a vegetarian or vegan meal, spiced plum chutney goes well with roasted vegetables. Try it with roasted root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or beets, which complement the chutney’s sweetness and spice.
6. Sandwiches and Burgers: Adding a spoonful of chutney to a sandwich or burger can completely elevate the dish. It pairs beautifully with beef, turkey, or chicken burgers, as well as with grilled sandwiches like paninis or croque-monsieurs.
7. Salads: Chutney can be drizzled over a fresh salad, adding complexity and a tangy-sweet note. It pairs particularly well with hearty salads that contain nuts, cheeses, or grains like quinoa.
8. Baked Goods: If you love a savory twist on your baked goods, try serving chutney alongside freshly baked scones, croissants, or a crusty loaf of bread. The combination of warm, flaky pastries and chutney creates an indulgent snack or breakfast.

These pairings will help you explore new ways to enjoy your chutney and offer an exciting range of flavor combinations that will impress your guests.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s spiced plum chutney is a versatile, flavorful condiment that enhances a wide array of dishes, from meats and cheeses to sandwiches and curries. With easy variations, you can personalize it to suit your preferences, experimenting with different fruits, spices, and even alcohols.

When it comes to storing your chutney, following best practices ensures that you can enjoy it for months without compromising its flavor. Whether you’re serving it with cheese, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables, this chutney is sure to elevate any meal. So, get creative and explore the endless possibilities this delightful condiment brings to the table!.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Required For Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney Recipe?

The main ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s spiced plum chutney include ripe plums, red onions, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, vinegar (such as malt or white wine vinegar), cinnamon, cloves, mustard seeds, and chili. These ingredients combine to create a sweet, tangy, and spicy chutney.

Can I Use Different Types Of Plums For The Chutney?

Yes, you can use different varieties of plums for this chutney. However, it’s best to use slightly firm plums for better texture. Varieties like damson plums or Victoria plums are good choices, as they offer a balance of sweetness and tartness.

How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney Need To Cook?

The chutney should be simmered for about 1-1.5 hours, depending on the consistency you desire. The key is to cook it slowly until the plums break down, the flavors meld, and the chutney thickens to your liking.

Can I Adjust The Spice Level Of The Chutney?

Absolutely!

Jamie Oliver’s spiced plum chutney recipe includes chili, but you can adjust the heat to suit your taste. You can add more chili for a spicier chutney or reduce it if you prefer a milder version. Alternatively, you can replace fresh chili with chili flakes or omit it altogether for a milder chutney.

What Is The Best Way To Store Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney?

Once your chutney has cooled, store it in sterilized jars with airtight lids. Keep it in a cool, dark place.

The chutney will develop its flavors more fully after a few weeks. It can be stored for up to six months if kept in proper conditions.

Can I Make This Chutney Ahead Of Time?

Yes, this chutney is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, it tastes even better after a few weeks of aging, as the flavors have time to meld together. It’s a great option for preparing for events like Christmas or giving as gifts.

Is It Necessary To Peel The Plums For The Chutney?

No, it’s not necessary to peel the plums. The skin will break down during cooking, and it adds to the texture and color of the chutney. However, if you prefer a smoother chutney, you can remove the skins before cooking.

Can I Use Other Fruits To Make A Chutney Like This?

Yes, you can experiment with other fruits to make similar chutneys. Apples, pears, or peaches can work well in place of plums. Just keep in mind that different fruits will affect the sweetness, acidity, and overall flavor of the chutney.

How Long Should I Let The Chutney Cool Before Sealing The Jars?

Allow the chutney to cool to room temperature before sealing the jars. This helps prevent condensation inside the jar and ensures proper sealing. Once sealed, store in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to enjoy it.

What Are Some Dishes That Go Well With Jamie Oliver’s Spiced Plum Chutney?

Jamie Oliver’s spiced plum chutney pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It’s great with cheeses (especially cheddar or brie), cold meats like roast pork or turkey, and curries. It can also be served as a condiment alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as an accompaniment to a charcuterie board.