The Best Chutney For Cheese And Crackers

There are endless possibilities when it comes to pairing cheese and crackers with chutney. The salty, savoury flavours of cheese go extremely well with the sweetness of chutneys, and the crunch of crackers adds another layer of texture to the experience. When creating a cheese board, it's important to let the cheese take centre stage and not be overwhelmed by the chutney. The perfect bite will balance all the senses, including taste, sight, touch and sound.

Chutney and cheese pairings

The perfect chutney and cheese pairing is a delicate balance of flavours and textures. Here are some classic combinations to elevate your cheese and crackers:

Fig Chutney and Blue Cheese

The rich, jam-like consistency of fig chutney beautifully complements the bold and tangy flavour of blue cheese. The result is a delightful marriage of sweet and savoury notes. If you're not a fan of blue cheese, the sweetness of fig chutney can help balance its bitterness, making it more palatable.

Apple or Pear Chutney with Brie or Camembert

The crispness of apple chutney pairs excellently with the creamy, buttery texture of mild cheeses like Brie or Camembert. Apple and pear chutneys sometimes have a hint of spice, making this combination perfect for the festive season. Try roasting Brie or Camembert with a dollop of apple chutney for an indulgent treat.

Tomato Chutney and Gouda or Havarti

Gouda's mild, sweet, and almost fudgy qualities are perfectly balanced by the bright acidity of tomato chutney. Havarti has similar sweet and creamy notes that are enhanced by the tanginess of tomato chutney.

Caramelised Onion Chutney and Smoked Cheese

The sweet and savoury notes of caramelised onion chutney enhance the delicate flavours of smoked cheese. This pairing is a wonderful combination of textures and tastes, from the smoky, woody notes of the cheese to the sticky sweetness of the chutney.

Mango Chutney and Cheddar

Mango chutney might seem like an unusual pairing with cheese, but its sweetness beautifully offsets the sharpness of cheddar. This combination creates a delightful contrast of flavours that works perfectly on crackers.

Chilli Chutney and Mild Cheese

Chilli chutney is a versatile option that pairs well with almost any mild cheese. The spiciness of the chutney is balanced by the creamy texture of cheeses like Brie or soft roulades.

When creating the perfect cheese and chutney pairing, consider contrasting flavour profiles. Sweet chutneys often complement sharp cheeses, while tangy or spicy chutneys go well with creamy or mild varieties. Texture is also important—match smooth chutneys with delicate crackers and chunky chutneys with heartier bread. And remember, when in doubt, pair chutney and cheese by location, as flavours that grow together often go together!

Crackers and chutney pairings

When it comes to pairing crackers and chutney, the options are endless. The key to a successful pairing is balancing the flavours and textures of the individual components. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Caramelised Onion Chutney

Pair this sweet and savoury condiment with a strong-flavoured cheese like a smoked cheddar or oak-smoked cheese. For crackers, opt for something that can stand up to the strong flavours, such as a hearty biscuit or a crisp sourdough cracker.

Chilli Jam

The sweet and spicy chilli jam goes well with a strong mature cheddar like the Cheddar Crunch. For crackers, choose something that can complement the jam's bold flavours, like a sturdy water biscuit or a crispbread.

Tomato and Garlic Chutney

A rich and savoury tomato and garlic chutney pairs beautifully with a spicy cheese like Flamin' Heart Cheese Truckle. For crackers, opt for a simple water biscuit or a crispbread to let the flavours of the cheese and chutney shine.

Apple or Pear Chutney

The crispness of an apple chutney or the spice of a pear chutney pairs well with creamy, mild cheeses like Brie or Camembert. For crackers, choose something that will complement the creamy texture of the cheese, such as a crispbread or a thin, delicate cracker.

Fig Chutney

The sweet and sticky fig chutney is a perfect match for a tangy blue cheese. For crackers, opt for a crispbread or a biscuit with a hint of sweetness, like a fig and sultana toast.

Mango Chutney

The sweet and tangy mango chutney is an unexpected but delicious pairing with a sharp cheddar. For crackers, choose something that can stand up to the strong flavours, like a hearty biscuit or a crispbread.

When creating your cheese board, remember to consider the texture of the chutney and cheese, as well as the flavour. A smooth chutney pairs better with thin, delicate crackers, while a chunkier chutney can be enjoyed with chunkier bread or crackers.

Chutney with other foods

Chutney is a versatile condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes beyond the classic combination of cheese and crackers. Here are some ideas for using chutney with other foods:

Sandwiches

Chutney adds a burst of flavour to sandwiches. Try a chutney, cheese, and ham sandwich for a hearty meal. For a vegetarian option, a simple cheese and chutney sandwich is a tasty choice. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different types of cheese and chutney combinations, such as mature cheddar with chilli jam or smoked cheddar with caramelised onion chutney.

Dips and Yogurt

Stirring chutney into dips or yogurt creates a unique and flavourful condiment. Mix and match different chutneys with various dips to find your favourite combinations. This can be a great way to elevate your crudités or chip dips.

Salad Dressing

Thinning out chutney and using it as a salad dressing will add a tangy twist to your greens. Try mixing a small amount of chutney with olive oil, vinegar, or yoghurt to create a well-rounded dressing.

Grilled Meat or Fish

Chutney can be used as a topping or glaze for grilled meat or fish. The sweet and tangy flavours of chutney can complement the savoury notes of the protein. Experiment with different types of chutney to find your preferred flavour profile.

Cheese Boards

While chutney is often paired with crackers and cheese, you can also create a more substantial cheese board by adding other elements. Try pairing different types of crackers with a variety of cheeses and chutneys. Leave the cheese out at room temperature for a bit before serving to enhance its flavour and soften its texture. Don't forget to include other complementary foods such as prosciutto ham, fresh bread, or crisped-up prosciutto to create a well-rounded grazing experience.

Chutney storage

Storing chutney correctly is important to ensure it lasts as long as possible. The storing process can be broken down into two parts: storing unopened chutney and storing opened chutney.

Storing unopened chutney

Homemade chutney should be stored in a cool, dark place away from sunlight. It is best to use a good-quality Kilner jar or a reused jam jar. If reusing a jar, check the glass for any imperfections, as these could be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Sterilise the jar before use and ensure it is warm when you spoon in the chutney to avoid cracking.

Storing opened chutney

Once opened, chutney should be stored in the fridge. Opened chutney that is continuously refrigerated will last for up to a month. To maximise the shelf life, keep it tightly covered and refrigerated.

How to know if chutney has gone bad

Chutney will last for up to a year unopened and stored in a cool, dark place. However, if it gives off an unusual odour or appearance, or mould starts to appear, discard it immediately.

Freezing chutney

Chutney can be frozen for up to 12 months. To do this, spoon the chutney into smaller containers, small glass jars, or zip lock bags, ensuring that it is sealed tightly with as much air removed as possible.

Chutney alternatives

Chutney is a great condiment to elevate your cheese and crackers, but what if you want to try something different? Here are some chutney alternatives to try:

Pickles

Pickles are a great alternative to chutney and offer a similar tangy taste. Try a pickled onion or a hot garlic pickle with your cheese and crackers. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even try a lime pickle.

Jams

Sweet chilli jam is a popular choice for those who like a little kick with their cheese and crackers. Or, if you're feeling fancy, try making your own chilli jam with port and star anise for a festive twist. If you're not a fan of spice, there's always the classic option of a fruit jam, such as fig or plum, which pair well with strong hard cheeses.

Relishes

Relishes can also be a great addition to your cheese and crackers. Try a red onion marmalade or a spiced plum relish for a sweet and tangy flavour. If you're feeling creative, you could even make your own chilli relish.

Fruit Pastes

A fruit paste, such as damson fruit paste, can bring a touch of elegance to your cheese and crackers. The plummy flavour of the paste pairs well with mixed milk cheeses.

Honey

Honey is a sweet and sticky alternative to chutney that can complement the saltiness of cheese. For an extra special treat, try warming the honey with chilli and garlic. Drizzle it over your cheese and crackers for a luxurious experience.

Mustard

If you're looking for something with a bit more spice, try adding a drizzle of mustard to your cheese and crackers. Irish Black Butter, made with apples, treacle and brandy, is a great choice for those who want a burst of sweet acidity.

So, next time you're reaching for the chutney, why not try one of these alternatives and experiment with different flavours and textures to find your new favourite pairing!

Frequently asked questions