| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 130 | 0.3g | 0.1g | 32g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 28g | 2g | 1g | 0.2g |
When I stumbled upon the idea for Spiced Yao Chos Chutney, my culinary instincts instantly knew I’d hit upon something special. This recipe combines the unique bitterness of Yao Chos (also known as bitter melon) with a medley of sweet and spicy elements, creating an exciting synergy of flavors that can elevate just about any meal. Born and raised in California, I’ve always been inspired by locally grown produce and the health-conscious culinary traditions of the West Coast. This chutney exemplifies those principles by incorporating fresh fruits like apples and pears, as well as nutritious bitter melon.
Rich in Nutrients and Flavor
One of the reasons I adore this recipe is because of the health benefits packed into every spoonful. Bitter melon, the star ingredient, is renowned for its numerous health benefits, including being high in vitamins A and C, and known for potential blood sugar-lowering properties. This makes the Spiced Yao Chos Chutney not just delicious but also a potentially excellent addition for those mindful of their dietary health.
To balance out the slightly bitter notes of the melon, the chutney features an array of sweet ingredients like apples, pears, and raisins, all finely diced to ensure each bite offers a perfect harmony of flavors. The apple cider vinegar and fresh lemon juice infuse the dish with a refreshing tang, while aromatic spices like cinnamon, cumin, cloves, and nutmeg add complex layers of warmth and depth. The inclusion of minced garlic and grated fresh ginger gives it just the right amount of zest, and for those who like a little heat, the optional red chili flakes can turn up the spice.
Versatile Pairings and Culinary Inspirations
This Spiced Yao Chos Chutney is incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed as a condiment for grilled meats, an addition to cheese boards, or even as a unique topping for your favorite vegan dishes. The depth of flavor makes it a perfect match for savory foods, similar to how you’d use traditional chutneys and relishes. You might find it pairs incredibly well with Indian curries or Mediterranean mezze platters, offering a sweet-spicy contrast that transforms each bite.
If you’re already a fan of mango chutney or tomato relish, you’ll find this recipe to be an exciting new twist that brings a different kind of tang and sweetness to the table. The combination of fruits and spices in this chutney creates a sensory experience that is both comforting and adventurous. It’s a delightful way to bring something different to your table, while still keeping things healthy and nutritionally beneficial.
So whether you’re looking to try something new or elevate your regular meals, Spiced Yao Chos Chutney is a recipe that promises not to disappoint. You can learn more about the health benefits of bitter melon here and discover other delicious chutney recipes here. Happy cooking!
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups chopped Yao Chos (bitter melon)
- 1 cup finely diced apples
- 1 cup finely diced pears
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Method
Step One
In a large pot, combine the chopped Yao Chos (bitter melon), finely diced apples, and finely diced pears. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, and raisins.
Step Two
Pour in the apple cider vinegar and fresh lemon juice. Stir in the brown sugar until well combined.
Step Three
Add the ground cinnamon, ground cumin, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, red chili flakes (if using), and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.
Step Four
Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally.
Step Five
Continue to simmer the mixture for about 40-45 minutes, or until the Yao Chos and fruits are soft, and the chutney has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step Six
Remove the pot from heat and let the Spiced Yao Chos Chutney cool. Transfer it to sterilized jars and store in the refrigerator. Enjoy as a condiment with your favorite dishes.
