Cranberry-pear chutney is a delightful blend of sweet, tart, and savory flavors, making it a versatile condiment perfect for the holiday season and beyond. The tangy cranberries pair beautifully with the natural sweetness of ripe pears, while warm spices and a hint of citrus create depth and complexity. This chutney is an excellent accompaniment to roasted meats, a cheese platter, or even spread on sandwiches. Easy to prepare and full of seasonal ingredients, it’s a festive addition to any table.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced
- ½ cup orange juice
- ½ cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, diced pears, orange juice, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, orange zest, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and salt. - Cook the Chutney:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the pears are soft. The mixture will thicken as it cooks. - Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the chutney and adjust the sweetness or spices as desired. Stir in the chopped nuts, if using, during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added texture and flavor. - Cool and Store:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the chutney cool to room temperature. Transfer it to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. - Serve:
Serve the cranberry-pear chutney chilled or at room temperature as a side dish, topping, or condiment.
This cranberry-pear chutney is a flavorful, elegant way to elevate your holiday meals and make every bite a celebration!
