Caribbean Cucumber Chutney Recipe

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I always ask for extra cucumber chutney on my doubles.

Cucumber chutney is a quick condiment that’s bursting with flavors. It’s a must-have for Aloo Pies, Saheena, and Pholourine.

What is Caribbean Cucumber Chutney?

Caribbean cucumber chutney is a fresh condiment made with grated cucumber, lemon juice, and a medley of herbs and spices. It’s light and flavorful with a hint of heat from scotch bonnet pepper, a Caribbean favorite.

Shado beni is a cousin of cilantro but has a stronger, earthier flavor that gives the chutney its authentic Caribbean taste. The acidity from the lemon juice ties everything together, making it a perfect balance.

It’s served as a side or topping to complement spicy dishes, helping to cool down the palate while enhancing the overall flavor of a meal.

What to Eat with Cucumber Chutney?

With Fried Foods: Cucumber chutney pairs beautifully with fried snacks like pholourie (fried split pea balls), aloo pies (Caribbean potato-stuffed pastries), and doubles (a popular Trinidadian street food).

As a Topping: Add a dollop of cucumber chutney to grilled or baked fish, chicken, or lamb for an extra layer of flavor.

With Rice or Roti: Serve it as a side dish alongside Caribbean staples like rice and peas, dhal and rice, or roti.

On Sandwiches or Wraps: Use it as a spread to elevate sandwiches, wraps, or even burgers with its fresh, tangy taste.

With Salads: Mix cucumber chutney with lettuce or other greens to create a quick, flavorful salad dressing.

Caribbean Cucumber Chutney Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber
• 1/2 a large lemon
• 2 leaves shado beni
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 clove garlic

Instructions

Wash the cucumber and grate it using the large holes of a box grater. If the cucumber is not seedless, remove the seeds before grating for a smoother chutney.

Finely chop the shado beni leaves and scotch bonnet pepper. Consider wearing gloves and avoid touching your face while working with them.

Place the grated cucumber in a mixing bowl. Squeeze the juice from half a lemon over the cucumber and mix well.

Add the chopped shado beni, scotch bonnet pepper, salt, and black pepper to the cucumber. Grate or mince the garlic and mix it into the bowl.

Stir all the ingredients until well combined. Taste the chutney and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, lemon juice, or pepper based on your preferences.

Allow the chutney to sit in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled as a side dish or topping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make cucumber chutney ahead of time?
Yes, cucumber chutney can be made ahead of time. However, it’s best to consume it within 1–2 days. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it crisp and flavorful.

2. What can I use instead of shado beni?
If shado beni (cilantro) is not available, substitute it with cilantro. While the flavor is slightly milder, cilantro still gives the chutney a fresh, herbaceous note.

3. Is cucumber chutney spicy?
This chutney gets its spice from the scotch bonnet pepper. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can use less pepper or remove the seeds, which carry the most heat. For a completely mild version, omit the pepper altogether.

4. How long does cucumber chutney last?
Cucumber chutney is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Over time, the cucumber may release water, so give it a quick stir before serving.

5. Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding other flavors like sugar for sweetness, grated ginger for extra zing, or even finely chopped tomatoes for a more salsa-like texture.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cucumber Chutney

Drain Excess Water: If your cucumber is very watery, lightly squeeze out the excess liquid after grating to avoid a watery chutney.

Adjust for Heat: Use the scotch bonnet pepper to your preferred spice level. A small amount goes a long way, so start with less and add more if needed.

Serve Fresh: This chutney tastes best when freshly made and chilled. Its vibrant flavors shine through when served immediately.

Caribbean cucumber chutney is a simple, refreshing, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and enough to pair with anything.

More Caribbean Condiment Recipes

• Tasty Caribbean Chow Chow Recipe
• How To Make Trini Chadon Beni Sauce?
• Caribbean Lime Pepper Sauce (Chunky)
• Caribbean Pineapple Pepper Sauce Recipe
• Trinidad Homemade Pepper Sauce
• Simple Trinidadian Tamarind Or Tambran Sauce