Tasty Gluten-Free Spicy Pumpkin and Apple Chutney Recipe
Indulge in the rich, warming flavours of this homemade gluten-free Spicy Pumpkin and Apple Chutney – a delicious condiment that transforms ordinary meals into something really special.
As someone who considers cheese a true weakness, I can confidently say this chutney is a game-changer for food lovers seeking both flavour and dietary flexibility.
Autumn’s bountiful harvest provides the perfect opportunity to craft this delectable preserve.
When gardens and farm shops overflow with ripe pumpkins and crisp apples, you’ll find yourself with an abundance of ingredients just waiting to be transformed into a delicious chutney.
The recipe is not just delicious – it’s remarkably simple to prepare, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this gluten-free chutney promises to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.
Table of Contents
What you’ll love about this recipe
Flavor Explosion
This chutney delivers a remarkable taste adventure that dances between sweet, spicy, and tangy. The combination of pumpkin’s earthy richness and apple’s bright acidity creates a complex flavour profile that transforms ordinary dishes into gourmet experiences.
Gluten-Free Friendly
For those managing gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, this chutney offers a safe and delicious condiment option. It opens up a world of culinary possibilities without compromising on taste or dietary requirements, making meal planning both exciting and stress-free.
Seasonal Celebration
Crafted during autumn’s peak harvest, this chutney captures the essence of the season. Each spoonful represents a celebration of nature’s bounty, bringing the warmth and comfort of fall directly to your plate through its carefully selected, locally sourced ingredients.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Packed with vitamins from pumpkin and apples, this chutney isn’t just delicious – it’s nutritionally beneficial. The natural ingredients provide antioxidants, fibre, and essential nutrients, making it a guilt-free addition to your meals.
Easy To Adapt
From cheese boards to curries, and cold meats to vegetarian dishes, this chutney proves to be an incredibly adaptable condiment. Its ability to elevate multiple dishes makes it a must-have in any kitchen, offering gourmet flair with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 Large white onions
- 100 g Fresh ginger (peeled and finely chopped)
- 1 Red chilli (deseeded and finely chopped)
- 4 Large garlic cloves (peeled and crushed)
- 1 kg Pumpkin (peeled and cut into sugar cube-sized pieces)
- 500 g Bramley apples (peeled and cut into sugar cube-sized pieces, approximately 3 large apples)
Spices and Seasonings
- 15 Cardamom pods (bashed open)
- 2 Long cinnamon sticks (snapped in two)
- 1 tbsp Black mustard seeds
- 2 tsp Cumin seeds
- 1 tsp Ground Turmeric
- 1 tsp Salt
- 500 g Brown sugar
Liquid
- 300 ml Cider vinegar
Instructions
- Before beginning your culinary adventure, gather all the ingredients and equipment. Ensure your kitchen workspace is clean and organized. Sterilize glass jars by washing them in hot, soapy water and drying them in a warm oven at 140°C for 15 minutes. This step is crucial for preserving your chutney safely.
- Roasting the Pumpkin: Preheat the oven to a robust 200°C, creating the perfect environment for caramelizing your pumpkin. Select a firm, fresh pumpkin with vibrant orange flesh. Carefully peel the tough skin using a sharp chef’s knife, removing any stringy pulp.
- Cut the pumpkin into uniform, small cubes (approximately 1cm) to ensure even roasting. The consistent size helps develop a rich, deep flavour and prevents uneven cooking.
- Spread the pumpkin pieces on a large baking tray, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Roast for precisely 1 hour, turning occasionally to achieve a beautiful golden-brown caramelization.
- Spice Preparation: While the pumpkin roasts, begin your flavour foundation. In a heavy-bottomed pan, gently toast the whole spices. Listen for the mustard seeds to pop – this releases their essential oils and intensifies their flavour. The kitchen will fill with an intoxicating aroma of warming spices.
- Cooking the Chutney: Combine the roasted pumpkin with sautéed aromatics. The slow simmering process is where the magic happens – flavours meld, liquids reduce, and the chutney develops its characteristic thick, glossy consistency.
- Stir frequently during the 30-minute simmering process. The mixture will transform from separate ingredients to a cohesive, rich preserve. Watch for the moment when the chutney parts slightly when you draw a wooden spoon through it – this indicates it’s ready.
- Use a jam funnel when transferring the hot chutney to sterilized jars to prevent messy spills. Ensure jar lids are screw-top and create an airtight seal.
- Label your jars with the date of preparation. This homemade chutney makes an excellent gift and will keep for up to 6 months in a cool, dark pantry.
What to serve with Gluten-Free Spicy Pumpkin And Apple Chutney
Cheese Pairings
Cheese lovers will rejoice with this chutney! It’s an exceptional accompaniment to sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese. The sweet and spicy notes of the chutney perfectly complement the richness of various cheese varieties, creating a harmonious flavour profile that elevates any cheese board.
Meat Companions
Cold meats find their perfect match in this chutney. Whether you’re serving a charcuterie platter or looking to add excitement to a simple sandwich, the spicy pumpkin and apple chutney brings depth and complexity to cold cuts and roasted meats.
Bread and Crackers
Spread this chutney on crusty bread or gluten-free crackers for an instant flavour boost. Its versatile nature means it can transform a simple slice of toast into a gourmet experience, adding warmth and spice to your everyday bread.
Culinary Versatility
Don’t limit this chutney to traditional uses. It’s surprisingly excellent when added to vegetable curries, providing an unexpected twist to your favourite dishes. The chutney can also serve as a unique condiment for grilled meats or as a vibrant accompaniment to roasted vegetables.
Seasonal Entertaining
Perfect for autumn gatherings, this chutney makes an impressive homemade gift or a standout addition to holiday cheese platters. Its rich flavours capture the essence of the season, making it a conversation-starting condiment at any gathering.
Gluten-Free Spicy Pumpkin And Apple Chutney Recipe
Equipment
- Measuring Jug
- Chopping Board
- Sharp Knife
- Frying pan
- Oven Proof Dish
- 4 500g Sterilised Jars
- 4 Jar Labels
Ingredients
- 2 Large white onions
- 100 g Fresh ginger peeled and finely chopped (4 cm)
- 1 Red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
- 15 Cardamom pods bashed open
- 2 Long cinnamon sticks, snapped in two
- 1 tbsp Black mustard seeds
- 2 tsp Cumin seeds
- 4 Large garlic cloves peeled and crushed
- 1 kg Pumpkin peeled and cut into sugar cubed pieces to size and then roasted
- 500 g Bramley apples peeled and cut into sugar cubed size pieces (3 large)
- 1 tsp Ground Turmeric
- 500 g Brown sugar
- 300 ml Cider vinegar
Instructions
- Peel and chop the pumpkin into bite-size pieces. Finely chop the chilli.
- Put the pumpkin pieces into the oven proof dish with the chilli, and roast at 200℃ for 1 hour.
- Fry the finely chopped onions, ginger, chilli, bashed cardamom, mustard and cumin seeds together in the pan for around five minutes, keep stirring to prevent it sticking and burning.
- Add in crushed garlic, roasted pumpkin and apples and stir for 10-15 minutes until all are soft.
- Stir in Turmeric and brown sugar, letting it melt in.
- Pour in the vinegar, add cinnamon sticks and season with 1 teaspoon salt, bring back to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes stirring regularly. Will be done when thick and brown.
- Spoon the chutney into the sterilised jars, label and store them in a cool dark place for up to 6 months.
- Once opened keep in the fridge and use within 6 weeks.
Nutrition
Chutney recipes
If you like chutneys, then make sure you check out more here 👇
- Gluten-free tomato chutney
- Gluten-free green tomato chutney
- Gluten-free marrow chutney
- Gluten-free spicy pear chutney
- Gluten-free apple sauce
Gluten-Free Spicy Pumpkin And Apple Chutney Recipe Tips
Here are some tips to help you make the most out of my gluten-free spicy pumpkin and apple chutney recipe:
Avoid Cross-Contamination
If you’re preparing your gluten-free spicy pumpkin and apple chutney in a kitchen that is not entirely gluten-free, take precautions to avoid cross-contamination.
Use separate utensils, cutting boards, and cooking surfaces to prevent gluten from contacting the ingredients.
When possible do not use wooden utensils, cutting boards, and rolling pins that are used with gluten.
Preparation Techniques
Salt can help preserve the pumpkin’s shape during cooking. Consider sprinkling sea salt over chopped pumpkin and letting it sit overnight, which helps the chunks maintain their structure during the long simmering process.
Cooking Insights
When simmering the chutney, watch for the perfect consistency. A wooden spoon drawn through the mixture should leave a trail that takes about 30 seconds to fill back in. This indicates the chutney has reached its ideal thickness.
Flavor Enhancement
Experiment with spice combinations. While the base recipe includes cardamom, mustard seeds, and cumin, you can personalize the chutney by adding additional warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, or ginger to suit your taste
Storage and Preservation
- Sterilize jars thoroughly before storing the chutney
- Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months
- Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 6 weeks
Serving Suggestions
Allow the chutney to mature for at least two weeks before serving. This resting period allows the flavours to develop and intensify, creating a more complex and delicious condiment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store this chutney?
The chutney can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months when properly sealed. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 6 weeks.
Can I make this chutney ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the chutney benefits from maturing. Allow it to rest for at least two weeks before serving to let the flavours develop and intensify.
Is this chutney gluten-free?
Yes, this chutney is designed to be gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or coeliac disease.
How do I know when the chutney is ready?
- It becomes thick and brown
- A wooden spoon drawn through leaves a trail that takes about 30 seconds to fill back in
- The mixture has a slightly syrupy consistency
Can I substitute ingredients?
- Different types of squash or pumpkin
- Varying levels of spiciness by adjusting chilli
- Alternative vinegars
- Adding dried fruits like raisins for extra depth
What pairs well with this chutney?
Cheese boards, cold meats, crusty bread, vegetarian dishes and Curries.
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Becky Terrell ✍️
Hi, I am Becky. I am a passionate recipe maker and having been a coeliac (celiac) for 30+ years I focus on gluten-free recipes. My blog is my online cookbook of gluten-free tasty recipes. You can follow me on X: @beckygwg
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Comments
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This chutney is a flavorful addition to sandwiches and cheese platters; the spice level is just right.
Tried it on a cheese toastie and it was absolutely delicious.