Apple Chutney/Shebki Chatni

Apple chutney is a sweet, cooked chutney that will keep for several weeks in the refrigerator.

Ingredients:

• 3 tart cooking apples, peeled, cored, and coarsely chopped* 
• 1 c. chopped dried fruits, such as peaches, apricots, or pears, or a combination of fruits 
• 1/2 c. golden raisins 
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped 
• 2 tsp. finely chopped fresh ginger 
• 1 tsp. salt 
• 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper 
• 1 c. white-wine vinegar 
• 11/2 c. sugar

Method:

• In a heavy saucepan, combine all ingredients and mix well. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. 
• Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 45 minutes, or until mixture is thick. 
• Remove saucepan from heat and cool chutney to room temperature. 
• Pour chutney into a nonmetallic, covered container and refrigerate until ready to use. 

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Makes 3 c.

*Apples come in many varieties, each with distinct characteristics. For chutney, although almost any apple will work, tart cooking apples turn out best. (Avoid Red Delicious for this recipe.They dont cook well.) Choose firm, unbruised fruit of the Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, McIntosh, or Fuji variety.