Glossary of food terms: C

Chutney

From the Hindi word 'chatni' meaning strong spices, chutney is a preserved or fresh relish made from fruit or vegetables with vinegar, sugar, herbs and spices.

British-style chutneys tend to be preserved by being cooked and are usually quite sweet, whereas Indian-style chutneys are fresh (uncooked) and are usually hotter and quite sour. It can range in texture from chunky to smooth, and in degrees of spiciness from mild to hot.

Chutney is a delicious accompaniment to curries. The sweeter chutneys also make interesting spreads for bread and are the perfect accompaniment to cheese with their tangy flavour helping to cut through the creaminess of the cheese. You can read more about preserving fruit here.

• Goan coconut chutney
• Mango chutney
• Christmas chutney