This Spicy Pineapple Jalapeño Chutney is a fun mix of sweet and spicy! The juicy pineapple paired with zesty jalapeños makes it a perfect topping for grilled meats or just plain old nachos!
I love how this chutney adds a kick to any dish. Just a spoonful goes a long way! And honestly, it’s a great way to impress your friends at a BBQ. Who knew chutney could be this tasty? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and sweetness for this chutney. If you can’t find fresh, canned pineapple in juice (not syrup) can work, but drain it well before using.
Jalapeños: Adjust how many you use based on your spice level! If you want it milder, use bell peppers instead. For more heat, try using serrano peppers!
Red Onion: Red onions add sweetness and color. You can substitute with yellow onions or green onions if needed, but the flavor will be different.
Brown Sugar: This adds depth and sweetness. If you prefer a healthier option, use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like honey, adjusting the quantity to taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar: For a bright, tangy flavor, apple cider vinegar is perfect. You can swap it with white vinegar or lemon juice if you don’t have it on hand.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Chutney?
Preparing the chutney might seem simple, but taking care with each step ensures great flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by heating the olive oil to get it nice and hot before adding onions. This helps them caramelize better!
- Sauté the onions until they are soft and translucent. This step builds the base flavor.
- Cook the garlic and jalapeños just enough to release their aromas. Avoid overcooking to retain their flavor.
- Simmer the mixture long enough for it to thicken, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors blend beautifully!
- Don’t skip the lime juice at the end. It brightens the chutney and adds a fresh kick!
Letting the chutney cool and refrigerate will help the flavors develop even more. Enjoy this tasty treat as a bold topping on meats or a dip at your next gathering!
How to Make Spicy Pineapple Jalapeño Chutney
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
- 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust quantity for heat preference)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Flavor:
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and another 25 minutes to cook. After that, you’ll want to let it cool down and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) for the flavors to meld together. Total time is approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes, but most of it is just waiting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped red onions. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they become translucent and soft.
2. Add Garlic and Jalapeños:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeños. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell the delicious aroma of the garlic and the jalapeños start to soften.
3. Mix in Pineapple and Seasoning:
Now it’s time to add the chopped pineapple, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar to the pan. Stir everything together until well combined. Then, add the salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper. Mix it all up!
4. Simmer the Chutney:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want the chutney to thicken and the pineapple to soften a bit.
5. Finish with Lime Juice:
Once your chutney has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the fresh lime juice. This adds a bright flavor that really brings everything together!
6. Cool and Store:
Allow the chutney to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a jar. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before enjoying. This chutney can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Now you have a vibrant and spicy pineapple jalapeño chutney ready to enjoy! It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or can be enjoyed simply as a dip. Enjoy your delicious cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Spicy Pineapple Jalapeño Chutney
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple in juice instead of fresh. Just be sure to drain it well before use to prevent the chutney from becoming too watery.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder chutney, use only one jalapeño or substitute with a bell pepper. For more heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add an extra pepper!
Can I Make This Chutney Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This chutney actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors meld together beautifully. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
What Are Some Ways to Use This Chutney?
This chutney pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, and seafood. You can also use it as a dip for chips or spread it on sandwiches for a sweet and spicy kick!
