Mary Berry Pear Chutney Recipe

Dive into the delightful world of chutneys with the Mary Berry Pear Chutney, a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that pairs wonderfully with cheeses, roasted meats, and more. This UK favorite is not only delicious but also an excellent way to use up any leftover or overripe pears, preventing food waste while enjoying the flavors year-round.

Ingredients for the Mary Berry Pear Chutney Recipe

• Fresh pears, peeled, cored, and coarsely chopped (1360g)
• Light brown sugar (280g)
• Apple cider vinegar (355ml)
• Raisins (240g)
• A small lemon, seeded and finely chopped
• Fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped (60ml)
• Garlic, peeled and finely chopped
• A small hot chile pepper, finely chopped
• Kosher salt (2.5ml)
• Ground allspice (1.25ml)
• Freshly ground black pepper (1.25ml)
• Ground coriander (1.25ml)
• A pinch of ground cloves

How to Make Mary Berry Pear Chutney

1. Begin by mixing the pears with brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, raisins, lemon, ginger, garlic, chile, salt, allspice, pepper, coriander, and cloves in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Once the mixture reaches a boil, lower the heat to simmer.
3. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the pears soften and the mixture thickens, roughly 30 minutes. If too liquidy, increase the heat to reduce further.
4. After cooking, allow the chutney to cool before transferring it to airtight containers for storage.

This chutney can be enjoyed in various ways, whether as a spread for crackers and bread, a complement to cheeses, or as a savory addition to sandwiches and roasted meats. Its versatility makes it a staple in any kitchen.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: In the fridge, the chutney lasts up to 2-3 weeks in an airtight container. For longer storage, it can be frozen for about 6 months or canned, extending its shelf life to 12-18 months in a cool, dark place.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently, or microwave in 30-second intervals until the desired temperature is reached.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this pear chutney contains approximately 69 calories, making it a guilt-free addition to enhance your meals with its rich flavors and textures.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use different types of pears? Yes, while Bosc pears are recommended for their firmness and sweetness, feel free to experiment with other types based on availability and preference.
• How long should I wait before eating the chutney? It's best to allow the chutney to sit for about a week before consuming to let the flavors meld and intensify.
• Can I make this chutney without sugar? For a sugar-free version, consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, though this may alter the taste and texture slightly.

This Mary Berry Pear Chutney is not only a testament to the versatility of pears but also a celebration of the balance between sweetness, tanginess, and spice. Whether you're a seasoned chutney lover or new to the world of preserves, this recipe promises to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire​​​​.