Mrs. Ball's Chutney
Mrs. Ball's Chutney Recipe - Authentic South African Recipe
Introduction
Mrs. Ball's Chutney is a beloved South African condiment that has been enjoyed for generations. This sweet and tangy chutney is perfect for adding flavor to a variety of dishes, from curries to sandwiches.
History
Mrs. Ball's Chutney was created by Ada Ball in the late 1800s in South Africa. Ada started making the chutney in her home kitchen and soon it became a staple in households across the country. The recipe has been passed down through generations and is now a beloved condiment in South African cuisine.
Ingredients
- 500 g dried peaches
- 250 g dried apricots
- 3 liters brown wine vinegar
- 2.5 kg sugar
- 500 g onions
- 12.0 g salt
- 7.5 g cayenne pepper
How to prepare
- Soak the dried fruit in 2 liters of vinegar overnight, then cook until soft.
- Remove the fruit and mince or process it in a food processor.
- Place the leftover soaking liquid, 1 liter of vinegar, and the fruit in a pot.
- Add sugar, grated onions, and spices.
- If the mixture is too thick, add more vinegar (it should have a medium consistency).
- Cook for 1 – 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
- Pour the mixture into sterilized jars and seal tightly.
Variations
- Add a pinch of curry powder for a spicy kick.
- Substitute dried mango for the dried peaches for a tropical twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Soaking the dried fruit in vinegar overnight helps to soften it and infuse it with flavor.
- Be sure to stir the chutney regularly while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Adjust the consistency of the chutney by adding more vinegar if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Mrs. Ball's Chutney is delicious served with cheese and crackers, on sandwiches, or as a condiment for grilled meats.
Cooking Techniques
Mincing or processing the fruit in a food processor helps to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Cooking the chutney slowly over low heat allows the flavors to meld together.
Ingredient Substitutions
White wine vinegar can be used in place of brown wine vinegar.
- White sugar can be used instead of brown sugar.
Make Ahead Tips
Mrs. Ball's Chutney can be made ahead of time and stored in sterilized jars for up to 6 months.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Mrs. Ball's Chutney in small jars with a decorative label for a homemade touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Mrs. Ball's Chutney pairs well with cheese, cold meats, and grilled vegetables.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store Mrs. Ball's Chutney in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 1 month.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Mrs. Ball's Chutney contains approximately 120 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Mrs. Ball's Chutney contains approximately 30g of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Mrs. Ball's Chutney contains negligible amounts of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Mrs. Ball's Chutney contains negligible amounts of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Mrs. Ball's Chutney is a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A.
Alergens
Mrs. Ball's Chutney contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.
Summary
Mrs. Ball's Chutney is a low-fat, low-protein condiment that is rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin A.
Summary
Mrs. Ball's Chutney is a sweet and tangy condiment that is perfect for adding flavor to a variety of dishes. This South African favorite is easy to make and can be enjoyed for months to come.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new ingredients and flavors, and one day she shared with me the secret recipe for Mrs. Ball's Chutney.
Mrs. Ball was a dear friend of my grandmother's, a woman known for her exquisite taste in food and her love for entertaining guests. The two of them would often exchange recipes and cooking tips, and it was during one of these visits that my grandmother learned the recipe for Mrs. Ball's famous chutney.
I remember watching in awe as my grandmother carefully measured out the ingredients and explained to me the importance of each one. She told me that chutney was a versatile condiment that could be served with almost anything – from meats and cheeses to sandwiches and salads. She also emphasized the importance of patience and attention to detail when making chutney, as the flavors needed time to develop and meld together.
After hours of simmering and stirring, the chutney was finally ready. The kitchen was filled with the warm, inviting aroma of spices and fruits, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. My grandmother spooned some of the chutney onto a cracker and handed it to me, a twinkle in her eye. I took a bite and was immediately transported to a world of tangy sweetness and savory spices. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before – a perfect balance of flavors that danced on my tongue.
From that day on, Mrs. Ball's Chutney became a staple in our household. My grandmother would make batches of it to give as gifts to friends and family, and it always received rave reviews. I would often help her in the kitchen, watching and learning as she expertly blended the ingredients together, a labor of love that resulted in a delicious and versatile condiment.
As the years passed, I began to experiment with the recipe myself, adding my own twist to it here and there. I discovered that a pinch of cinnamon gave the chutney a warm, comforting flavor, while a splash of vinegar added a tangy kick. I also learned the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients, as they truly made a difference in the final product.
Over time, I shared the recipe with friends and colleagues, who all marveled at its unique and delicious taste. It became a signature dish of mine, a symbol of my love for cooking and my dedication to preserving the traditions passed down to me by my grandmother.
And so, whenever I make Mrs. Ball's Chutney now, I can't help but think back to that day in my grandmother's kitchen, when I first learned the art of making this delicious condiment. It brings back memories of laughter and love, of shared meals and cherished moments spent together. And as I spoon the chutney onto a cracker and take a bite, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past and to those we hold dear. Mrs. Ball's Chutney will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the legacy of love and tradition that I am proud to carry on.
Categories
| Chutney Recipes | Dried Apricot Recipes | Dried Peach Recipes | Onion Recipes | Rice Vinegar Recipes | South African Recipes |