Easy Homemade Pineapple Chutney for Any Meal

Pineapple chutney is a simple and delicious way to brighten any meal. It has the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors. This homemade chutney is easy to prepare and uses fresh ingredients that come together in one pot. You can enjoy it with grilled meats, sandwiches, rice dishes, or even as a topping for snacks. It adds a burst of flavor that makes every dish feel special and memorable.

Ingredients Needed

2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
1 small onion, diced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon oil
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon red chili flakes
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 cup sugar
1 cup white vinegar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons raisins or chopped dates, optional

Step by Step Instructions for Easy Pineapple Chutney

Prepare the Pineapple

Cut the pineapple into small pieces. Finely chop so the chutney cooks evenly and gets a smooth but chunky texture.

Cook the Aromatics

Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them sizzle until fragrant. Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook for three to four minutes until soft.

Add the Spices

Sprinkle in turmeric, paprika, and red chili flakes. Stir well so the spices bloom and release their aroma.

Add Pineapple and Cook

Add the chopped pineapple to the saucepan. Stir to mix everything together. Cook for five minutes until the pineapple softens.

Add Sugar and Vinegar

Pour in the sugar and vinegar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Simmer the Chutney

Reduce heat to low. Let the chutney simmer for twenty to twenty five minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You will know it is ready when it becomes thick and glossy.

Add Finishing Touches

Stir in lemon juice and raisins or dates if using. Taste and adjust salt. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Store the Chutney

Once cooled, transfer the chutney to a clean jar. Seal and store in the refrigerator. It tastes even better the next day.

Tips for Customizing Your Pineapple Chutney

Pineapple chutney is flexible and easy to adjust. If you want more heat, add extra red chili flakes or a chopped fresh chili. For a sweeter chutney, increase the sugar slightly or add more raisins. If you prefer a thicker texture, let it simmer a bit longer. For a smoother chutney, mash some of the pineapple with a spoon while cooking. You can also add spices like cinnamon or cloves for a warm and fragrant flavor. For a tropical twist, add a handful of coconut flakes during the last few minutes of cooking.

Nutritional Information

One serving of pineapple chutney contains about 80 to 100 calories depending on the added sugar and raisins. It is naturally low in fat and provides fiber from the pineapple. The vinegar gives it a tangy flavor while keeping the calorie count low. It contains small amounts of vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants from the pineapple and spices. To reduce calories, you can cut the sugar in half or use a natural sweetener like stevia, keeping the overall flavor fresh and bright.

Serving Suggestions

Pineapple chutney is incredibly versatile. Serve it with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a sweet and tangy contrast. It pairs well with rice bowls, roasted vegetables, or sandwiches. Spread it on toast or crackers for a quick snack. It also tastes amazing with cheese platters, especially with soft or mild cheeses. For Indian meals, serve it with curries, samosas, pakoras, or chapati. It also makes a great topping for burgers, wraps, or tacos, adding a tropical flavor that enhances the whole dish.

Frequently Asked Questions