
Mary Berry Green Tomato Chutney captures the sharp tang of underripe tomatoes balanced perfectly with the sweetness of brown sugar and gentle warmth from ginger and cinnamon. Slow-cooked to a thick, rich consistency, it delivers a vibrant, slightly spiced flavour that deepens over time in the jar, offering a classic British taste sensation ideal for cheeses, cold meats, or sandwiches.
By Mary BerryFrom Mary Berry Recipes
This chutney has a Nutri-Score rating of C, reflecting its moderate sugar content balanced by natural fruit ingredients and spices. It’s a flavour-packed option with moderate calories and no fat, making it a tasty yet mindful addition to your meals.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 kg green tomatoes, chopped
- 500g onions, finely chopped
- 2 large apples (about 300g), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 100g raisins (optional)
- 500g brown sugar
- 500ml malt vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tbsp salt
Notes
- Green tomatoes provide a fresh tang and a sturdy texture to the chutney.
- Brown sugar softens the sharpness with its rich, sweet depth.
- Malt vinegar acts as a natural preservative, giving the chutney its bright bite.
- Cinnamon and ginger bring gentle warmth and layered, aromatic flavours.
- Raisins add a chewy sweetness and extra texture but can be left out if preferred.
Customise
- Try swapping raisins for dried cranberries to introduce a subtle tartness.
- Add a dash of red pepper flakes or fresh chilli for a hint of heat.
- Use apple cider vinegar instead of malt vinegar for a softer, sweeter tang.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary work beautifully to lift the aroma and flavour.
Method
- Prepare ingredients: Dice the green tomatoes and finely chop the onions. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces. Grate the ginger and mince the garlic.
- Combine ingredients: Place the tomatoes, onions, apples, raisins, brown sugar, malt vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, cinnamon stick, and salt into a large saucepan. Stir well.
- Simmer to dissolve sugar: Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a simmer.
- Cook chutney: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring now and then to prevent sticking. The chutney is done when it thickens to a jam-like consistency and most liquid evaporates.
- Sterilise jars: While the chutney cooks, sterilise your glass jars by washing and placing them in an oven at 120°C (250°F) for 10 minutes.
- Jar chutney: Remove the cinnamon stick and carefully spoon the hot chutney into your sterilised jars. Seal tightly while warm.
- Cool and store: Allow jars to cool completely at room temperature, then keep in a cool, dark place. The chutney keeps for several months and flavours deepen with age. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 4 weeks.
What can you serve with this
- Cheese boards: The chutney’s sweet and tangy profile contrasts beautifully with strong cheeses like mature cheddar or stilton.
- Cold meats: Serve with ham, turkey, or roast beef to add a flavourful kick and balance richness.
- Sandwiches: Use as a spread to elevate simple sandwiches with an extra layer of spice and sweetness.
- Ploughman’s lunch: Ideal alongside bread and pickles for a traditional and satisfying meal.
- Grilled vegetables: Add a dollop to roasted or grilled vegetables for a pleasant sweet contrast.
FAQs for Mary Berry Green Tomato Chutney
- Can I use red tomatoes instead of green for this chutney?
Yes, but red tomatoes are sweeter and less tangy, so the chutney will have a milder flavour. You might want to reduce the sugar slightly. - How long should green tomato chutney mature?
Allow at least 2-4 weeks for flavours to develop fully and blend into a rich, complex taste. - Can I freeze green tomato chutney?
Freezing is not recommended due to vinegar content. It stores well in sterilised jars for months, improving with age. - How long does the chutney last after opening?
Store in the fridge and consume within 4 weeks. Always use a clean spoon to prevent contamination. - What jars should I use for storing chutney?
Use freshly sterilised glass jars with tight-fitting lids for best preservation. - Can I make the chutney spicy?
Yes, add chopped chillies or red pepper flakes when combining ingredients for a spicier chutney. - How do I know when the chutney is ready?
It thickens to a jam-like consistency, and most of the liquid has evaporated after simmering.
Nutri-score Health Check
Based on the Nutri-Score system, this chutney earns a C rating. It offers a balanced nutritional profile with low fat and natural fibre but contains moderate sugars from brown sugar and fruit.
Positive Factors
- Green tomatoes and apples provide fibre and vitamins.
- Contains no fat and a modest calorie count per serving.
- Uses natural spices like ginger and cinnamon for flavour without additives.
Negative Factors
- The inclusion of brown sugar elevates sugar content.
- Moderate salt used for seasoning.
Please note this score is automatically calculated based on ingredient data and is intended only as a general guideline to aid dietary choices.


