Apple & cranberry christmas chutney

Step by Step

Step 1

Preheat the oven to about 180ºC, gas mark 4. Wash the jars and lids in hot soapy water and rinse well, but do not dry them. Leave them to stand upside down on a roasting tray while they’re still wet. Put the tray into the oven for about 15 minutes, until the jars and lids have been sterilised.

Step 2

Put all the ingredients except the cranberries in a large, heavy-based saucepan. Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved. Stir to mix the ingredients together before turning up the heat.

Step 3

Simmer gently, uncovered, for 45 minutes. The apples will have softened and become translucent. Stir occasionally, especially at the edges of the pan, to ensure that none of the chutney sticks to the bottom of the pan and burns.

Step 4

Add the cranberries and bring to the boil. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, until the cranberries have all popped and the chutney has become red in colour. Carefully spoon into the sterilised jars, discarding the cinnamon and star anise. Close the lids tightly and leave to cool at room temperature. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months. Once opened, keep in the fridge and use within 2 weeks. Delicious served with Stilton, strong Cheddar or ham.