This fun and zesty chutney combines sweet pineapple with spicy jalapeños for a flavor explosion! It pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a dip for chips.
Making it is a breeze—I just chop everything, mix it up, and let it sit. Your taste buds will thank you, especially during summer BBQs! 🌶️🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds natural sweetness and a juicy texture. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple chunks in juice, but drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
Jalapeños: These give the chutney its signature heat. Feel free to swap them with serrano peppers for more spice or omit entirely for a milder version. You could also use bell peppers if you prefer sweetness without heat.
Brown Sugar: This adds a caramel-like sweetness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, coconut sugar or honey can work well too. You can adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
Apple Cider Vinegar: I love the tanginess it brings! White vinegar or rice vinegar can be used instead, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the chutney. If you’re not a fan, parsley or mint can be good alternatives to keep the fresh herb flavor.
How Do I Ensure a Perfectly Thick Chutney?
Cooking down the ingredients allows the flavors to blend while thickening the chutney. Be sure to follow these steps for a great result:
- Keep an eye on the mixture as it simmers; stirring occasionally prevents sticking and burning.
- If you find your chutney is too runny, let it cook a bit longer, uncovered. This allows excess moisture to evaporate.
- Cool the chutney properly; it will continue to thicken as it cools in the fridge. Trust me, it will hold together nicely!
Easy Spicy Pineapple Jalapeño Chutney
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, chopped into small chunks
- 2-3 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tsp fresh grated ginger)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional for texture and flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional for extra spice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chutney will take about 30 minutes to prepare, with 20-25 minutes cooking time, plus at least 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick recipe that packs a lot of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Gather Your Ingredients:
Before you start cooking, make sure you have everything chopped and ready to go. This will make the process smooth and fun!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped pineapple, thinly sliced jalapeños, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed.
3. Cook the Mixture:
Add in the ground ginger (or fresh ginger), mustard seeds if you’re using them, salt, and minced garlic to the saucepan. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook gently for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the pineapple to become soft and the mixture to thicken up!
4. Add Final Touches:
Once your chutney has thickened, remove it from the heat. Stir in the fresh chopped cilantro and red chili flakes (if you’re looking for that extra spice!).
5. Cool and Store:
Let the chutney cool to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to a clean, sterilized jar or container. This chutney will taste even better after a few hours in the fridge!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Refrigerate your chutney for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s fantastic with grilled meats, as a dip, or even spread on sandwiches. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful homemade chutney!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Pineapple Jalapeño Chutney
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Fresh pineapple brings a better texture and flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, canned works too!
How Should I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder chutney, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before slicing them. You can also reduce the number of jalapeños or skip the red chili flakes. On the other hand, for extra heat, add more jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne pepper!
How Long Can I Store This Chutney?
This chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it for storage!
What Are Some Ways to Use This Chutney?
This chutney is incredibly versatile! Serve it as a topping for grilled meats, a dip with crackers or chips, or as a zesty spread on sandwiches and tacos. It also pairs nicely with cheese boards!
