Some stupid about chutneys

[OrangeOsc]

I'm planning on making chutney to give as a gift this year. Can I put it in a washed out jam jar? I ask because it has a tamper proof lid, which obviously now pops up when pressed down. Will this keep it ok? And how long will it last? Final question is does the jar need sterilising and if it does, how do I do this?

:( And I messed up the title! Stupid questions

Not stupid questions. You can buy waxed papers from Lakeland and similar places to go on top to create an extra seal if you like. I wash the jars in very, very hot soapy water, hot rinse and then in a low-ish oven to dry. The tamper proof button often goes back in when v hot jam/chutney is in the jar.

Thank you :)

I'm glad you asked because I was wondering this too. It's far cheaper to buy cheap jam etc and use the jars that it is to buy empty jars.

I have been saving jam jars all year. I have just made a batch of chutney, and I give them as presents.

Wash the jars either in your sink or in a dishwasher, mine go in the dishwasher. I then sterilise them in a low oven about 140 degrees for 15 mins. I pop them into the oven when the chutney is almost ready. Always put hot chutney into hot jars.

Chutney does not mix well with metal, my jam jar lids have a plastic coating on the inside but I still use wax discs. The worry is the vinegar will come into contact with the metal and do something sinister

You can re-use jam jars but some people buy new lids, they are relatively cheap and lots of places online sell them. Personally I just re-use the lids.

Enjoy, I love making chutney, but you have to accept that your house will smell of vinegar for several days!

Thanks Fizzy that's a big help. I'll get some wax discs. I've never made it before but have vowed to do more homemade things this year :)

I always re-use jam jars. So long as they are well washed and sterilised. The pop up buttons will be sucked back down if the chutney is good and hot when it goes in the jars and the lid is sealed while the whole jar is still hot.