Lemon Pepper Recipe
Description
This vibrant chutney blends the natural sweetness of dried apricots and golden raisins with the sharp zest of fresh lemon juice. The addition of ground green cardamom and black pepper creates a complex flavor profile that balances sweet, tangy, and spicy notes perfectly. Fresh mint adds a cool aromatic finish, while chopped almonds provide a delightful crunch. This versatile condiment pairs beautifully with grilled meats, cheese boards, or yogurt-based dips. It is an excellent make-ahead recipe that improves as the flavors meld together. The texture is thick and chunky, offering a pleasant contrast in every bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a unique gift for food lovers, this recipe brings a touch of gourmet flair to simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.Ingredients
Directions
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Place the dried apricots in a bowl and cover with 2 cups (500 ml) of hot water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for softer results, until plump and tender.
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Drain the soaked apricots thoroughly, squeezing out excess water. Chop them into bite-sized pieces if desired.
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In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, drained apricots, golden raisins, lemon juice, salt, ground cardamom, black pepper, and chili powder.
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Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
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Reduce heat to low and cook gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
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Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh mint leaves and chopped almonds.
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Allow the chutney to cool to room temperature before serving. The texture will continue to thicken as it cools.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2 cups
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 952.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 23.5g37%
- Saturated Fat 1.9g10%
- Cholesterol 0.5mg1%
- Sodium 4914.9mg205%
- Total Carbohydrate 187.8g63%
- Dietary Fiber 10.6g43%
- Sugars 172.1g
- Protein 13.4g27%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, sterilize jars and process in a water bath for 10 minutes to preserve for several months.
Substitutions: If fresh mint is unavailable, dried mint can be used (use 1 tablespoon). Almonds can be replaced with walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor.
Variations: Add a strip of orange peel during cooking for extra citrus aroma. Adjust the chili powder to taste for more or less heat.
Tips: Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before simmering to prevent graininess. The chutney tastes best after sitting for a few hours or overnight, allowing the spices to infuse fully.
