This Spicy Pineapple Jalapeño Chutney is a vibrant blend of sweet, tangy, and fiery flavors that instantly elevates any meal. Made with fresh pineapple, jalapeños, and bold spices, this chutney strikes the perfect balance between heat and sweetness. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, rice dishes, sandwiches, wraps, or even as a dip for snacks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors
Quick and easy to prepare
Made with fresh, simple ingredients
Customizable heat level
Great as a dip, spread, or glaze
Keeps well for days, making it ideal for meal prep
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups fresh pineapple, finely diced
2–3 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
3 tablespoons red chili flakes or chili paste (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Directions
Prepare all ingredients by finely dicing the pineapple, slicing the jalapeños, and mincing the garlic and ginger.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the pineapple, red onion, jalapeños, garlic, and ginger.
Stir in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, red chili flakes or chili paste, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely.
Reduce heat to low and let the chutney simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture should thicken slightly while the pineapple softens but still retains some texture.
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Allow the chutney to cool completely before serving. The flavors will deepen as it rests.
Servings and timing
Servings: Makes approximately 1 1/2 to 2 cups (about 6–8 servings)
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Mango Twist: Replace half of the pineapple with ripe diced mango for a tropical variation.
Extra Smoky: Add 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle smoky depth.
Sweeter Version: Increase brown sugar to 1/3 cup if you prefer a sweeter chutney.
Herb Swap: Substitute cilantro with fresh mint for a refreshing finish.
Blended Style: For a smoother chutney, pulse lightly in a blender after cooling.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store the chutney in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Freezing: Freeze in small portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat if serving warm, or enjoy chilled straight from the refrigerator.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, but choose pineapple packed in juice rather than syrup. Drain well before using to prevent excess sweetness.
How can I reduce the spiciness?
Remove all jalapeño seeds and membranes, and reduce the chili flakes to 1 tablespoon or less.
Can I make this chutney ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after a few hours or the next day as the flavors meld together.
What dishes pair well with this chutney?
It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, rice dishes, wraps, and even cheese platters.
Is this chutney very spicy?
It has a noticeable kick, but you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Can I make it sugar-free?
You may substitute brown sugar with honey or a natural sweetener of your choice, adjusting to taste.
How do I thicken the chutney further?
Simmer it a little longer to allow more liquid to evaporate, stirring frequently.
Can I blend the chutney smooth?
Yes, for a smoother consistency, blend after it has cooled slightly.
How long does it last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 7 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I preserve it for longer storage?
Yes, you can process it using proper sterilized jars and water-bath canning methods for extended shelf life.
Conclusion
Spicy Pineapple Jalapeño Chutney is a bold and versatile condiment that brings brightness and heat to countless dishes. With its vibrant color, balanced flavors, and simple preparation, it’s an easy way to add excitement to everyday meals. Whether served fresh or made ahead, this chutney is sure to become a favorite staple in your kitchen.
This Spicy Pineapple Jalapeño Chutney is a bold and vibrant condiment that blends sweet pineapple, fiery jalapeños, and tangy vinegar into a perfectly balanced sauce. Ideal as a dip, spread, or glaze, it adds a burst of sweet heat to grilled meats, rice dishes, and sandwiches.
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:1 1/2–2 cups
Ingredients
2 cups fresh pineapple, finely diced
2–3 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
3 tablespoons red chili flakes or chili paste (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
Finely dice pineapple, slice jalapeños, and mince garlic and ginger.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeños, garlic, and ginger.
Stir in apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chili flakes or paste, salt, and black pepper.
Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and pineapple softens.
Remove from heat and stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Cool completely before serving to allow flavors to develop.
Notes
Adjust spice level by reducing jalapeños or chili flakes.
Simmer longer for a thicker consistency.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Can be frozen in small portions for up to 2 months.
