Mango chutney is a vibrant, flavor-packed condiment that instantly brightens up any plate. Sweet, tangy, and lightly spiced, it highlights the tropical essence of fresh mangoes while adding the warm depth of aromatic spices. It is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with cheese boards, curries, or even simple toast!

A Note From Kristen
If you’ve got a pile of ripe mangoes you don’t want to waste, this homemade mango chutney is the perfect solution! That’s exactly how this recipe began for me, and now it’s one of my favorite summer kitchen projects. I’m a total sucker for mango chutney served alongside a good curry, and once I started making my own, there was no turning back. Fresh mangoes bring a bright, tropical sweetness that no store-bought version can match. After you try it, I think you’ll feel the same way. Happy eating!
~Kristen
A Few Words on Mango Chutney
This delicious condiment isn’t a one-flavor-fits-all! Different regions may offer different flavor profiles ranging from sweet and mellow to pungent and spicy. That variety is part of the things that make Indian cuisine so amazing! For example:
- South Indian versions lean more heavily on spices, particularly curry leaves, chili peppers, and mustard seeds. This makes their mango chutney taste intensely spicier.
- North Indian versions are sweeter, using cumin, cinnamon, and coriander to provide a mellow flavor.
Whichever variation you prefer, you’ll still end up with a condiment that’s rich in flavor and absolutely satisfying!
Ingredient Notes
Please keep in mind that this is just a quick overview. Visit the full recipe for amounts and instructions!
How to Make Mango Chutney
01
SAUTE AROMATICS
Heat the oil in a small saucepan over medium heat, add the mustard seeds and let them pop for 30 seconds, then stir in the onion, garlic, and ginger and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
02
COMBINE
Add the mango, vinegar, sugar, cumin, turmeric, chili flakes, and salt, stirring to combine.
03
COOK
Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
04
SERVE
Stir in the lime zest and juice, then cool. Enjoy!
Recipe Variations
Some fun variations you can try include adding the following ingredients:
- Diced pineapples and as many red pepper flakes as you can handle to create a spicy pineapple mango chutney.
- Whole cinnamon sticks and crushed cardamom pods for a warmer, more aromatic chutney.
- Shredded coconut and a splash of coconut milk for an increased tropical vibe.
- Fresh mint and cilantro to give the chutney a fresh, herbaceous twist.
- Golden raisins can be added for extra chewy sweetness and to give your chutney more body.
Serving Ideas
- Serve a spoonful alongside plain yogurt to accompany rice and curry (my personal favorite!).
- Use as a sauce for veggie burgers, sandwiches, or wraps.
- Use as a spread for cheese and crackers. It’s particularly good with white cheddar!
- Serve as a topping for a frittata or omelet.
Kristen’s Top Tips
- Use ripe but firm mangoes so they will still hold their shape yet soften nicely as they cook.
- Never skip blooming the spices! Frying the mustard seeds, for example, unlocks their aroma and depth of flavor, which infuses the oil and enriches the entire chutney.
- Mango chutney tastes even better after it has rested and chilled for at least 24 hours before serving, as this allows the flavors to develop and mellow.
More Delicious Condiment Recipes You Might Enjoy
Mango Chutney Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil I like to use refined coconut oil
- ¾ teaspoon yellow mustard seeds
- ½ cup red onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger root grated
- 2 cups ripe mango diced
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 lime zest and juice; see notes
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the mustard seeds and let them pop for 30 seconds.
- Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the mango, vinegar, sugar, cumin, turmeric, chili flakes, and salt.
- Simmer uncovered 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick.
- Stir in the lime zest and juice, then cool.
- Store in the refrigerator in a sealed jar for up to 2 weeks.
- Enjoy!