A chutney is a Family of condiments or sauces in indian cuisine. It is usually made from fruits, vegetables and/or herbs with vinegar, sugar and spices.
The word chutney is now applied to anything preserved in sugar and vinegar.
The main difference between chutney and jam is that jam is sweet and chutney is savory. Jams often contain pectin and has thick texture but chutney contains no pectin and can be chunky with fruit or smooth.
One the other hand chutney is very close to relish. Both are made with chopped vegetables, vinegar, and added spices. Typically, chutney has a softer consistency and contains a variety of fruit pieces. Relish usually contains one type of vegetable and no fruit.
English variant traditionally aims to give long shelf life so that autumn fruit can be preserved and used throughout the year.
In Indian cuisine chutney holds an integral part and is served with everything from basmati rice to breads or dosa or curry dishes and they are served throughout the day, even for breakfast whereas around the world variety of chutney is paired with dishes like onion chutney with roasted meats or a fruity apple chutney with creamy cheese like brie or goat cheese.
