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Blatjang

Yields40 ServingsPrep Time20 minsCook Time40 minsTotal Time1 hr

Blatjang is the pride of Cape Malay-cuisine, and the recipe is one of the oldest around.

Apricot blatjang in a glass storage container.

Main Ingredients
 2 cups dried apricots, chopped
 1 cup raisins
 1 medium onion, finely chopped
 2 cloves garlic, minced
 ½ cup brown sugar
 ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
 ¼ cup lemon juice
 1 tsp grated ginger
 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
 ½ tsp ground coriander
 ¼ tsp ground cloves
 ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
 1 cup water
 ½ tsp salt
Directions
1

Place the chopped apricots and raisins in a bowl. Cover them with hot water and let them soak for 30 minutes to soften.

2

In a medium saucepan, heat a splash of water (or a small amount of oil for richer flavor) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

3

Drain the soaked fruit and add it to the saucepan. Stir in the sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, spices, and salt. Pour in the water and mix well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The mixture should thicken and the fruit should break down into a jam-like consistency.

4

For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the chutney until it reaches your desired consistency (or leave it chunky for a more rustic feel). Transfer the blatjang to sterilized jars while still warm. Seal tightly and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

Notes

Blatjang [bluh-chung] is a traditional South African fruit chutney with sweet, tangy, and mildly spiced flavors. It pairs beautifully with bobotie, grilled meats, or as a dip for bread and snacks. Feel free to adjust the spices and sugar to your taste. Add a diced apple for extra sweetness or a chili for a spicier kick.

Nutrition Facts

40 servings

Serving size

per tablespoon

Amount per serving
Calories40
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.1g1%

Saturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 10mg4%
Sodium 10mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 10g4%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Total Sugars 8g
Vitamin C 1mg2%
Vitamin E 0.2mg2%

* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.