I've never been a chutney person. For some reason, it's always reminded me too much of fruit cake, and that's a major culinary negative in my food repertoire.
A few years ago however, I found a jar in my mother's refrigerator (which always has a random and various assortment of British-like stuff in it) that for some reason, appealed to my senses that day. To be exact, it was Patak's Hot Mango Chutney, and I fell instantly in love. You can pick it up at just about any grocery store (except for Thriftway in Forks, WA), and it's very reasonably priced. Nothing fancy -- just chutney.
So I put some on a cracker with a chunk of Parmigiano Reggiano (one of my favorite cheeses on the planet ... you can buy a big hunk of it at Costco for a great price ... but I digress ....), which I always have on hand in my fridge. The result was divine.
I'm not sure if I'd like most chutneys, because, to be honest, I haven't ventured out and tried too many. But this particular chutney has since become one of my very favorite afternoon/evening treats, paired with a glass (or 3) of chardonnay. It's an absolutely perfect combination.
Today's version: a Rosenblum Cellars Chardonnay, Vintner's Cuvee. So, so good.
Even if you're chutney-shy, like I've always been, or set in your snacking routines, I highly recommend giving this a try. The spiciness and sweetness of the chutney, paired with the saltiness of the parmesan and bite of the wine is such a great treat.
Did you know Mom gave me a jar last weekend? I popped the top last night (along w/ my new wedge o' Parmigiano Reggiano) and did the very same thing. Unfortunately, I'm not nearly as pleased with my current wine selection (other than the La Crema currently in my wine fridge, which I'm saving for an "emergency") as you are w/ yours.
ReplyDeleteVery good find, btw. I think in our advancing years we're finally [gulp] becoming our mother's daughters.
Happy hump day.