How to prevent mold in garlic chutney?

Question

Concerned about mold growing on your homemade garlic chutney? Learn the essential preparation and storage steps to keep it safe and fresh.

Answer 1

To prevent mold in garlic chutney, ensure proper sterilization of jars, maintain a high acidity level (add lemon juice or vinegar), and store the chutney in the refrigerator after opening.

Detailed Explanation:

Mold thrives in environments with moisture and warmth. Garlic chutney, being a moist food product, is susceptible to mold growth if not properly preserved. Here's a breakdown of how to prevent it:

1. Sterilize Jars and Utensils: Before filling the jars with chutney, thoroughly sterilize them and any utensils you'll be using. This eliminates existing mold spores and bacteria. You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10-15 minutes or by using a dishwasher's sanitize cycle.

2. Maintain High Acidity: Mold struggles to grow in acidic environments. Adding lemon juice, vinegar (white or apple cider), or even tamarind pulp to your garlic chutney recipe increases its acidity and inhibits mold growth. Ensure the pH is below 4.6 for optimal preservation.

3. Use Proper Sealing Techniques: If you're making a large batch for long-term storage, use proper canning techniques to create an airtight seal. This prevents air and contaminants from entering the jar.

4. Refrigerate After Opening: Once you open a jar of garlic chutney, always store it in the refrigerator. The cool temperature slows down mold growth significantly.

5. Use Clean Spoons: Always use a clean spoon to scoop chutney from the jar. Avoid double-dipping, as this can introduce bacteria and mold spores.

6. Consider Preservatives: While not always necessary, you can add natural preservatives like sodium benzoate or potassium sorbate to further inhibit mold growth. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper usage.

Pro Tip:

Before filling the sterilized jars, heat the chutney to a high temperature (around 185°F or 85°C) for a few minutes. This helps to kill any remaining microorganisms and creates a better vacuum seal when the jars cool, further preventing mold growth.