How to Make Mary Berry Runner Bean Chutney
Discover the delight of Mary Berry's Runner Bean Chutney, a savory preserve that marries the freshness of runner beans with a tangy and sweet blend of vinegar, sugar, and spices. This chutney is perfect for enhancing the flavor of cheese platters, cold meats, and sandwiches, making it a versatile addition to your pantry.
Runner Bean Chutney: A British Delight
Runner Bean Chutney is more than just a condiment; it's a celebration of British produce and traditional preserving techniques. This chutney features runner beans at its core, alongside a harmonious mix of onions, vinegar, sugar, and spices such as mustard powder and turmeric. The beans are briefly boiled to retain their crispness before being combined with caramelized onions and a vinegar mixture, resulting in a chutney that is both tangy and slightly sweet, with a hint of spice.
Ingredients for Runner Bean Chutney
To prepare this delightful chutney, you will need:
- Onions, finely diced
- Malt vinegar
- Runner beans, washed, trimmed, and thinly sliced
- English mustard powder
- Ground turmeric
- Cornflour
- White wine vinegar
- Granulated sugar
- Wholegrain mustard
- Flaked sea salt
The precise measurements and detailed ingredient list can be found in the original recipe by Michelle Minnaar.
Preparation Instructions
The chutney is made by first simmering onions in malt vinegar until softened. The runner beans are then cooked in boiling water before being added to the caramelized onions along with sugar, white wine vinegar, and spices. A slurry of mustard powder, turmeric, cornflour, and vinegar is then stirred in to thicken the mixture. The final touch of wholegrain mustard and sea salt is added before the chutney is simmered to perfection.
For the full step-by-step method and cooking times, refer to the original recipe.
Storage and Reheating
Once made, the chutney should be transferred into sterilised jars and stored in a cool, dark place for at least a month to allow the flavors to mature. Once opened, it can be kept in the refrigerator. The vinegar acts as a natural preservative, ensuring the chutney remains safe to consume over time.
Nutritional Information
Each tablespoon serving of this chutney contains approximately 14 calories, with a negligible amount of fat and protein, and around 2.7g of carbohydrates.
FAQ about Runner Bean Chutney
- How long does Runner Bean Chutney last? Unopened, it can last for several months. Once opened, it's best consumed within a couple of months, stored in the refrigerator.
- Can I use different types of vinegar? Malt and white wine vinegar are recommended for their flavor profiles, but you can experiment with other types of vinegar for varying tastes.
- Is this chutney suitable for vegans? Yes, this chutney is vegan-friendly, containing no animal products.
This chutney is a testament to the simplicity and beauty of preserving the bounty of the garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener with a glut of runner beans or a home cook looking to try something new, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer all year round.
For more detailed instructions and additional tips on making this chutney, refer to the original recipes and sources.