Major Grey's Chutney facts for kids
Major Grey's Chutney is a special kind of chutney. Chutney is a tasty sauce or relish often made with fruits, spices, and vinegar. This particular chutney is said to have been created by a British Army officer named Major Grey in the 1800s. He supposedly lived in British India. While the story might be a legend, it's a fun way to think about its origins!
Major Grey's Chutney is known for its unique mix of ingredients. These include mango, raisins, vinegar, lime juice, onion, and various spices. Sometimes, it also has tamarind extract. It's often described as a milder chutney compared to others that can be quite spicy. In 1982, it was even called the most popular type of chutney in the United States!
For a long time, a company called Sharwood's made a popular Major Grey's Mango Chutney. However, this specific version is no longer made for sale in the United Kingdom.
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Where to Find Major Grey's Chutney
Many companies around the world make Major Grey's Chutney. While they all aim for a similar taste, each company might use slightly different recipes.
Major Grey's Chutney in India
In India, Major Grey's Mango Chutney is made by companies like Sun Brand and Desai Brothers Ltd. They sell it under the brand name Mother's Recipe. This chutney has even been sent to countries like Singapore!
It's believed that Major Grey's Chutney was created because traditional Indian chutneys were very spicy. They were often too hot for Europeans living in India. So, Major Grey supposedly asked for a sweeter, milder mango chutney to suit his taste. This is how Major Grey's Chutney is thought to have started, possibly made by a company called Merwanjee Poonjiajee, which began in 1876. Sun Brand's mango chutney and curry powder were some of the first Indian condiments to be sold outside of India.
Major Grey's Chutney in North America
Many companies make "Major Grey's Mango Chutney" for people in the United States and Canada. For example, the British brand Patak's makes a similar mango chutney. Another well-known brand is Sharwood's.
One of the oldest brands to make this chutney popular in the West is Crosse & Blackwell. This company is now partly owned by J.M. Smucker Company. Some people think that Crosse & Blackwell bought the original recipe for Major Grey's Chutney a very long time ago, perhaps in the early 1800s.
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