May 2017

Spring is the best time of year for many things - taking long walks, picnicking in the park, and incorporating fresh fruits and veggies into your menu!

This spring, we at Alexian invite you to try one of our favorite combinations: pâté & chutney. Read on to learn more about this daring combination and why you (and your family) will love it as much as we do!

What is chutney?

Originally, and most basically, a chutney is a bright relish made from fruits and spices, used as a condiment. While originally coming from Indian cuisine, chutneys have been adopted by food enthusiasts in every corner of the world, with many chefs lending their own flair to the traditional recipes.

A chutney is often used to top meat dishes and curries, and can vary widely in flavor - from sweet to sour to spicy to savory or any combination - and texture. While fruit-based chutneys are the most popular kind, they can also be vegetable-based. Common ingredient include mango, peas, tomato, lemon, apples, onions, honey, ginger, mint, cilantro and hot chilis, though not all in the same chutney.

Why should I try it with my pâté?

As mentioned above, chutneys use bold and bright flavors to enhance their main course counterparts. The rich and flavorful aspects of both chutneys and pâtés work in harmony

How should I enjoy the two?

To enjoy the full depths of flavor of both dishes, try spreading the pâté onto a sliced baguette, and topping with a spoonful of the chutney.

For a more fulfilling meal, you can also pair the two together in wraps, on sandwiches, over couscous. Use vegetables that will complement the ingredients in the chutney without overpowering the flavors.

Four Pairings for you to Try at Home:

1. Pheasant Rosemary Pâté + Spiced Plum Chutney

This pairing brings the holiday spirit to any time of the year. Bold, deep flavors on both ends make these two perfect to standalone as appetizers.

Find more information about our Pheasant Rosemary pâté here, and a recipe for Spiced Plum Chutney here.

2. Chicken Ballotine + Tamarind Chutney

A tamarind chutney is one of the most popular, and its thick yet saucy texture makes it perfect for drizzling over a plate or spread onto a slice of bread. Its sweet and sour taste pairs especially well with our Chicken Ballotine, which embraces tropical fruits. Enjoy with a bed of fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach.

Find more information about our Chicken Ballontine here, and a recipe for tamarind chutney here.

3. Chicken Liver Pâté + Mango Pineapple Chutney

When paired correctly, sweet and savory are a marriage made in heaven. This pairing is one of those marriages. The bright citrus flavors of the mango pineapple chutney pair with the rich, deep flavors of our Chicken Liver Mousse to bring out the best in both.

Find more information about our Chicken Liver Mousse here, and a recipe for Mango Pineapple chutney here.

4. Black Peppercorn Mousse + Cherry Tomato Chutney

The creamy texture of our Black Peppercorn Mousse is enhanced by the chunky texture of this savory cherry tomato chutney. Pair these two together on top of a burger, on a sandwich, or as an easy anytime snack with a slice of baguette.

Find more information about our Black Peppercorn Mousse here, and a recipe for Cherry Tomato Chutney here.