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Mary Berry Plum Chutney

Mary Berry Plum Chutney

Mary Berry Plum Chutney is a slow-cooked fruit preserve made from plums, onions, spices, sugar, and vinegar. The long-simmering process reduces the mixture into a thick, glossy chutney with a balance of sweetness and acidity. It’s a classic British preserve that pairs well with both savoury and sweet dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1kg ripe plums (pitted and chopped)

  • 2 medium onions (finely chopped)

  • 2 apples (peeled and diced)

  • 250g soft brown sugar

  • 250ml malt vinegar or apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tsp ground ginger

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • ½ tsp chilli flakes (optional)

  • 1 tsp mustard seeds

  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Prepare the fruit: Chop plums, onions, and apples into small, even pieces for quicker cooking.

  • Add everything to the pan: Combine fruit, vinegar, sugar, spices, and salt in a heavy-based pot.

  • Heat gently: Warm the mixture on low heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

  • Start simmering: Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

  • Cook low and slow: Simmer uncovered for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

  • Check the texture: The chutney is ready when thick, glossy, and spoonable.

  • Jar while hot: Spoon the chutney into sterilised jars using a funnel.

  • Seal tightly: Close the jars immediately to create a natural vacuum as they cool.

  • Cool and store: Let jars cool fully at room temperature before storing.