Chutney is a quintessential element of any true cheeseboard, providing a perfect balance of tang, sweetness, and spice to elevate even the most humble of cheeses. But what exactly sets chutney apart from jam?
While both are fruit-based preserves, chutneys often feature a complex mix of spices, vinegar, and sometimes vegetables, giving them a zesty, savoury edge. Jam, on the other hand, tends to be a straightforward, sweet fruit preserve with little to no seasoning beyond sugar.
The origins of chutney can be traced back to India, where it has been a staple for centuries. Derived from the Hindi word chatni, meaning “to lick,” chutneys were originally made from fresh fruits, herbs, and spices, designed to add zest and flavour to meals.
British colonists, who encountered these vibrant condiments during their time in India, adapted the recipes, eventually introducing chutney as a sweet-and-sour preserve to the Western palate. The British version often features cooked fruit, vinegar, and sugar, resulting in the rich, tangy jars we know and love today.
When it comes to pairing chutney with cheese, the combinations are endless. One of the most popular is the classic pairing of sharp, crumbly cheddar with a tangy, rich apple and cider chutney, which is an all-time British favourite. Though zesty lime and pickle chutney is typically used to cut through sweeter curries, we think it pairs beautifully with mild, creamy cheeses.
Of course, chutney isn't just reserved for cheese. Its versatility shines through in a variety of dishes, from being slathered on a simple piece of grilled chicken to being used as a marinade for meats. It can add depth to sandwiches or serve as a piquant accompaniment to any type of curry.
Whether spooned onto a buttery scone or drizzled over a chargrilled steak, chutney brings a layer of complexity to any meal. So, next time you prepare your cheeseboard or plan a dinner party, please don't forget the chutney.
Keep scrolling for our selection of the best chutneys for cheese lovers.
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Bonne Maman Violet Fig with Shallot Chutney
A refined twist on tradition, this velvety chutney pairs the sweet richness of violet figs with the subtle sharpness of shallots. A gourmet addition to your cheese board or a sumptuous spread for your next charcuterie soirée.
Buy now £2.60, Ocado
Tiptree Caramelised Red Onion Chutney
Rich, sweet, and delicately tangy, this chutney from Tiptree adds a touch of sophistication to any sandwich or burger. A classic with a modern twist that feels both comforting and a little bit decadent.
Buy now £2.35, Tesco
Tracklements Fresh Chilli Jam Heart-Shaped Jar
If we weren’t already obsessed with Tracklements’ Chilli Jam, we definitely are now. Available in an adorable heart-shaped jar - this multi-award winning jam is made from an addictive blend of fresh red chillies grown in the Vale of Evesham, onions, garlic, red peppers, sugar and lemon. Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan, scoop up a jar to pair with your favourite cheeses.
Buy now £7.45, Tracklements
Dishoom Chutney Set
We've yet to meet leftovers that couldn't be elevated with a touch of spice. Go the gourmet route by adding dollops of Dishoom's famous Indian chutneys to your larder.
This trio comprises sweet apple chundo and tamarind and date chutney - which pair well with a cheeseboard too, incidentally - and a jar of the chilli chutney which brings welcome flavour and fire.
Buy now £26.00, Dishoom
Fine Cut English Breakfast Marmalade
Though marketed as a breakfast marmalade, this delightfully citrusy marmalade would work wonders on an after-dinner cheese selection. Sweet yet bitter, and perfectly smooth – this Cartright & Butler marmalade is the connoisseur’s choice for a reason.
Buy now £7.00, Cartwright & Butler
Mrs H.S. Ball's Original Recipe Chutney
An iconic South African favourite, Mrs H.S. Ball's chutney is sweet, savoury, and packed with bold, complex flavours. Perfect for pairing with cold meats, cheeses, or simply enjoying with a spoon straight from the jar.
Buy now £2.34, Amazon
Mrs Darlington's Spicy Tomato & Sticky Onion Chutney
A deliciously rich and spicy combination of tomatoes and caramelised onions. It strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and heat, making it an ideal companion for curries, grilled meats, or even a bold breakfast toastie.
Buy now £7.34, Amazon
Ren’s Pantry Green Mango Chutney
Vibrantly zesty and packed with the tang of fresh green mangoes, this chutney brings a bright kick to any dish. Ideal for spicing up a curry or as a refreshing contrast to rich cheese and cold cuts.
Buy now £6.00, DELLI
Ferns' Hot Lime Pickle
Not for the faint-hearted, this fiery lime pickle is a bold and tangy addition to your spice cupboard. If you love heat and intensity, this will take your curries and grilled meats to a whole new level of flavour.
Buy now £3.80, Sous Chef
Gymkhana Tandoori Onion Chutney
A luxurious chutney by the beloved London-based, two Michelin star Tandoor, this chutney beautifully combines the smoky depth of tandoori spices and the sweet earthiness of onions. Perfect for dolloping over grilled meats or adding a special touch to your next Indian feast.
Buy now £7.00, Sous Chef
