Kokub's Mango Chutney from Pakistan Recipe

Kokub's Mango Chutney from Pakistan Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 24 servings:

  • 4 green (under ripe) mangoes, peeled, seeded, and cut into strips
  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1 (1 inch) piece fresh ginger root, chopped
  • 2 cups white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seed
  • teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 5 whole cloves
  • 4 cardamom seeds
  • 2 cardamom pods
  • 1 (3 inch) cinnamon stick
  • 1 cup distilled white vinegar
  • 5 black peppercorns, crushed

Directions

Follow these steps for the perfect mango chutney:

  1. Place mangoes in a large pot.
  2. Crush the garlic and ginger using a mortar and pestle until a smooth paste forms. Stir this paste into the mangoes.
  3. Add sugar to the pot and season with salt, cumin seeds, red pepper flakes, cloves, cardamom seeds and pods, and the cinnamon stick.
  4. Stir the mixture to blend all the ingredients evenly. Cover the pot and let it sit at room temperature for 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. The next day, cook the chutney over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook until it begins to thicken, about 30 minutes.
  6. Stir in vinegar and crushed peppercorns, and cook for another minute.
  7. Allow the chutney to cool before serving or storing.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (based on 24 servings):

  • Calories: 107
  • Total Fat: 0g (0% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 99mg (4% Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 27g (10% Daily Value)
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% Daily Value)
  • Total Sugars: 26g
  • Protein: 0g (1% Daily Value)
  • Vitamin C: 10mg (11% Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 9mg (1% Daily Value)
  • Iron: 0mg (2% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 65mg (1% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origin:

Kokub's Mango Chutney is a traditional Pakistani condiment with roots in the South Asian culinary heritage. Chutneys in general have been a part of the region's cuisine for centuries, with origins traced back to the ancient civilizations of India and Pakistan. The word "chutney" itself is derived from the Hindi word "chatni," meaning "to lick," which reflects the tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors that make chutney a beloved addition to meals. The use of mangoes, in particular, has been common in the subcontinent, where the fruit is native and enjoyed in various forms, from savory dishes to desserts. This chutney combines the tartness of green mangoes with aromatic spices, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

Regional Variations:

While mango chutney is popular throughout the Indian subcontinent, Kokub's Mango Chutney has its distinctive traits that set it apart. Originating from Pakistan, this chutney uses green, unripe mangoes, which provide a firmer texture and a more pronounced tartness compared to the ripe varieties commonly used in other chutneys. The recipe also features a blend of spices like cumin, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, which are typical of Pakistani and North Indian chutney variations. In contrast, South Indian chutneys may incorporate coconut or curry leaves for additional flavor complexity. The use of vinegar and sugar in this recipe contributes to the chutneys tangy-sweet taste, with a consistency that can vary depending on how long it is cooked.

Distinctive Features:

What sets Kokub's Mango Chutney apart from similar dishes is its particular combination of spices and the method of preparation. The chutney is allowed to sit overnight before cooking, which helps the flavors meld and intensify. The use of whole spices like cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, and cloves is another characteristic feature, as these whole spices infuse the chutney with deeper, more aromatic flavors. Additionally, the chutneys consistency can be customized based on personal preferencewhether you prefer it more syrupy or thicker, it is an adaptable recipe that suits a variety of tastes.

Where It Is Typically Served:

Kokub's Mango Chutney is commonly served as a side dish or accompaniment to many traditional Pakistani and Indian meals. It pairs particularly well with curries, biryanis, and grilled meats, providing a contrast to the heat of spicy dishes. It is also enjoyed as a topping for sandwiches or spread on breads. In some cases, the chutney may be served alongside fried snacks like samosas or pakoras to balance out their richness. Its versatility in the kitchen has made it a staple in both casual family meals and festive occasions.

Interesting Facts:

  • Mango chutney was historically made to preserve the fruit during mango seasons, allowing people to enjoy the fruits unique flavor throughout the year.
  • Chutney, in its various forms, was introduced to Europe by British colonists who encountered the condiment during their time in India. Over time, it became popular in Western cuisine as well.
  • In addition to its rich taste, mangoes are loaded with vitamin C, making chutneys a nutritious way to enjoy the fruit.
  • While mango chutney is often associated with Indian cuisine, similar condiments can be found in many cultures, including the Caribbean, where mango chutneys are typically spicier and sometimes include tropical ingredients like peppers and lime.

Overall, Kokub's Mango Chutney from Pakistan is not just a delicious accompaniment but a reflection of the rich culinary traditions of the region. With its complex flavors and ability to enhance a wide range of dishes, it remains a beloved condiment across South Asia and beyond.

FAQ about Kokub's Mango Chutney from Pakistan Recipe

Kokub's Mango Chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the chutney in small portions (like 1/2 cup containers), which will last for up to 6 months.

While green (under-ripe) mangoes are typically used for this chutney to provide a tart flavor, you can substitute ripe mangoes. However, the chutney will have a slightly different taste, being sweeter and less tangy.

Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less red pepper flakes or by using different types of chili. If you prefer a milder chutney, reduce or omit the pepper flakes altogether.

If your chutney is too runny, it could be due to the sugar not properly caramelizing, or it may not have been cooked long enough to reduce and thicken. You can cook it for a longer time over low heat to reach the desired consistency. If it remains thin, you can add a small amount of Sure-Jell or pectin to help it thicken.

To achieve the perfect texture, be sure to let the chutney sit for the recommended 8 hours or overnight before cooking. This allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the flavor and ensuring proper thickness when cooked.

If you can't find the whole spices like cardamom pods, cloves, or cinnamon stick, you can use their ground versions. However, whole spices give a deeper, more aromatic flavor to the chutney. Just be sure to strain them out before serving if you use whole spices.

Vinegar is an essential ingredient for balancing the sweetness and acidity in the chutney. If you want to avoid vinegar, you could try using a different acidic ingredient like lemon juice, but this will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Homemade chutney can be stored in sterilized jars for up to a year if properly sealed and kept in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store the chutney in the refrigerator and use it within 3-4 weeks.

Yes, you can freeze this chutney. It's best to store it in airtight containers, leaving a little space for expansion. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

If the chutney becomes too thick, you can add a little water or extra vinegar to loosen it up. Stir in small amounts at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Comments

Margaret Martinez

09/10/2023 05:53:44 AM

Rewritten review: Wow! This recipe is absolutely delicious and so simple to prepare. Accidentally adding the vinegar to the mango mixture turned out to be a happy accident. Instead of letting it sit overnight, I cooked it slowly for about an hour until it thickened. Even though my chutney didn't have the typical golden color due to not fully caramelizing the sugar, the taste was fantastic. Despite doubling the chili, it had a mild flavor that I enjoyed. I will definitely be making this again as it fully satisfied my mango chutney cravings. Using a small food processor to make the garlic ginger paste was a great shortcut. Update: After 2 weeks, the flavors have only improved! I can't stop eating this straight from the jar with a spoon. The only downside is the whole spices that aren't meant to be consumed. Though essential to the fantastic flavor, I recommend serving the chutney in a separate bowl and picking out the spices before serving.

Emily King

09/10/2024 06:44:07 PM

Here is the rewritten review: I followed the recipe by adding all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cooking covered on Low for 3 hours. Then I cooked it uncovered for an additional 1-2 hours, stirring in 2/3 of an envelope of Certo Sure Jell (liquid) until well blended. Finally, I transferred the mixture into jars.

Jessica Torres

01/09/2023 12:17:14 AM

Zesty, sweet, and spicy--exactly how a chutney should taste! This recipe requires some prep work, but the end result is worth it, especially when giving out these delightful jars as Christmas gifts. I opted for ripe mangoes and reduced the sugar by 1/4 cup, resulting in the perfect balance. To avoid using my food processor, I used a mortar and pestle to create a paste of garlic and ginger, adding a teaspoon of coarse sea salt to help break them down.

Carol Allen

12/05/2022 08:12:26 AM

Great recipe that is easy to assemble. I recommend using unripe mangoes. To easily remove the skin, simply microwave the mangoes one at a time for 15 seconds on high setting or steam for 30 seconds. The resulting chutney tastes similar to "Major Grey's" Indian chutney. An excellent recipe!

Heather Baker

09/12/2024 06:34:06 PM

Review: I absolutely adore this chutney and have whipped it up at least 6 times. The recipe is incredibly simple to follow. The end result is consistently fantastic, whether my mangoes are firm or fully ripe. I prepare a large batch and portion it into 1/2 cup containers for easy access when adding it to chicken or pork tenderloin dishes. I've even stored a few cups of it in the fridge for months, and it still tastes great. This chutney takes a tuna sandwich to a whole new level of deliciousness. The only adjustment I make is cutting the mangoes into smaller pieces and using about 2 cups of sugar.

Dorothy Garcia

05/22/2025 11:57:07 PM

I frequently prepare this dish using ripe yellow mangoes instead of green ones, and it always turns out delicious.

Amy Miller

04/03/2023 06:16:08 PM

This dish was excellent, and my husband absolutely adored it. I will definitely be making it again.