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An Easy Homemade Fresh Fig Chutney Recipe
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We’re diving deep into the luscious flavor of fresh California figs to create one of the absolute best condiments you’ll ever taste—our homemade chutney with fresh figs and blackberries. This sauce is great in all sorts of applications from cheeseboard pairings to serving with grilled proteins. This fruit-filled chutney is out of this world delicious!
When you buy fresh figs from California, you’re not just getting top-tier fruit, you’re supporting California farmers, promoting sustainable agriculture, and giving yourself a little slice of sunshine grown right here in the Golden State.
Figs and Chutney: A Love Story
First things first, let’s talk about chutney recipes. This isn’t just some random condiment you throw on your plate. Oh no, my friends, chutney brings the kind of flavor that can elevate even the humblest of dishes into something worthy of a dinner party.
Imagine the sweet, rich notes of fresh figs complemented by the tangy punch of blackberries and just a hint of cardamom. That’s the magic of a great fruit-based chutney like this one – the intense flavor is the perfect accompaniment for just about everything you could ever want to pair it with, from lamb to cheeses, or even just a good ol’ slice of toast.
California figs come in a variety of types: Mission, Brown Turkey, Kadota, Calimyrna, Tiger, and Sierra. Each has its own unique flavor profile. Fresh figs are versatile enough to star in both sweet and savory dishes.
Why Choose Figs From California?
Now, let’s talk about why you should choose California figs. First off, 100% of the nation’s dried figs and 98% of the fresh figs are grown right here in California. That’s a huge testament to the quality and flavor of these figs. They cover 9,300 acres of farmland, primarily in and around the Central California cities of Madera, Fresno, and Merced. These areas provide the perfect conditions for fig cultivation, with their warm climates and rich soils.
When you buy California figs, you’re getting a product that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Fresh or dried, these figs contain no added sugars, making them a natural energy source. They’re rich in antioxidants, calcium, and fiber—just three to five figs provide 20% of your daily dietary fiber needs. Plus, just a half cup of dried figs has the same calcium content as a half cup of milk!
A Few Facts About Purchasing and Storing California Figs
- California figs are available at most major grocery retailers.
- Fresh figs are in season from May to November, while dried figs are available year-round.
- Fresh figs should be kept refrigerated to maintain their quality and flavor, while dried figs should be stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. You can also refrigerate dried figs to extend their shelf life.
Uses for Fresh Fig Blackberry Chutney
Now, let’s explore the various ways you can use this delicious fig chutney. A fruit chutney like this one can be incredibly versatile:
- Cheese Platters: Pair your homemade chutney with a selection of cheeses. The sweetness of the figs complements sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or creamy varieties like brie.
- Grilled Meats: Use the chutney as a glaze for grilled chicken, pork, or lamb. The fruity, tangy flavors will enhance the meat’s natural taste.
- Sandwich Spread: Spread the chutney on sandwiches for a sweet and tangy twist. It pairs well with turkey, ham, or even a vegetarian sandwich.
- Topping for Yogurt or Oatmeal: Add a spoonful of chutney to your morning yogurt or oatmeal for a burst of flavor and a nutritious start to your day.
- Side Dish: Serve the chutney alongside your main dish as a flavorful side. It’s a perfect complement to rice dishes or roasted vegetables.
- Dipping Sauce: Use the chutney as a dipping sauce for appetizers. The sweet and savory combination will be a hit.
Making chutney isn’t just about throwing ingredients into a pot and hoping for the best. It’s about layering flavors, balancing sweetness with acidity, and coaxing out the natural richness of the figs.
Ready to Mix Up More Classics with Us? Check Out this California Grown Spotify Playlist:
So, there you have it—an easy homemade fresh fig chutney recipe that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your chutney creations on social media using #CAGROWN. Craving more CA GROWN goodness? Follow us on Pinterest for fresh and fabulous recipe inspiration!
Fresh Fig Blackberry Chutney
Ingredients
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 shallot, minced
- 1 lb fresh black figs, stem removed,diced
- 1 pint blackberries
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 ½ TBSP lemon juice
- ¼ tsp cardamom
- ½ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced shallot and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add blackberries, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, cardamom, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
- Cook over medium-high heat, stirring often, for about 10 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken and the blackberries start to break down.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced figs to the saucepan.
- Continue to cook the chutney for another 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the figs are softened and the mixture has thickened to a syrupy consistency.
- Use the chutney hot as a condiment or allow it to cool completely.