Date Chutney with Apricots and Ginger

Considered a pantry staple, chutney can give any dish depth and flair pulling on the strengths of the dish it accompanies or adding something new altogether. Date Chutney with apricots and ginger is the perfect chutney to create any time of the year.

Crystalized ginger can be found in the baking isle of the grocery store or also online here. If you are not familiar with using it in recipes, crystalized ginger is made by cutting fresh ginger into small pieces then soaking it in a mixture of sugar and water. The sugar crystals permeate and soften the course fibers of the gingerroot. Last, the softened ginger pieces are then rolled in sugar and dried.

Date with Apricots and Ginger Canning Recipe

Makes approx. 7 pints or 14 half-pints

Created with pitted dates, dried apricots and crystalized ginger, this chutney makes for a fantastic combination of flavors. Sweet and tangy, use this beautiful chutney alongside grilled chicken, on a charcuterie board with salty meats and cheeses, or inside a three-cheese grilled sandwich.

Ingredients

• 3 cups chopped pitted dates
• 3 cups dried apricots, chopped
• 2 cups golden raisins
• 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
• 2 cups apple cider vinegar
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup sweet onion, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons chopped crystalized ginger
• 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
• 1 tablespoon salt

Instructions

1. Add every ingredient to a large stockpot, mix well, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once at a boil, reduce heat to medium and simmer for 25 minutes, stirring often. As it thickens be sure to stir regularly to avoid scorching.
2. Using a funnel, ladle chutney into jars leaving a 1/2-inch headspace. Remove any trapped air pockets and add additional chutney if necessary to maintain the 1/2-inch headspace.
3. Wipe the jar rim with a washcloth dipped in vinegar. Add the lid and ring to each jar and hand tighten.
4. Process in a water bath, pints process for 15 minutes and half-pints for 10 minutes. Remember, you do not start the timer until the water is at a full rolling boil.
5. Remove lid from water bather and allow to sit for 5 minutes before removing jars to cool.

Happy Canning!
xo
Diane, The Canning Diva