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A Taste of Autumn: Homemade Spicy Apple & Walnut Chutney at Butterhills Escapes

There’s a certain magic to autumn here at Butterhills. The golden leaves gently tumble from the trees, and the soft rustle of the wind sweeps through the meadows. The air carries a hint of woodsmoke from the wood burner, and mornings bring a light mist rolling in from the valley, revealing itself slowly to the warming sun. As the days shorten, we find ourselves leaning into the rhythm of the season, preparing for the cosy months ahead. And with that, comes the harvest of beautiful windfall apples.

At Butterhills, this time of year is all about embracing nature’s bounty. Our neighbour’s have gifted us with a glut of apples perfect for transforming into homemade delicacies. One of my personal favourites to make, especially as the nights draw in, is a spicy apple and walnut chutney—rich, tangy, and full of warmth. The kind of treat you want to savour by a crackling fire with a slice of crumbly Devon cheese and a hunk of fresh bread.


The Charm of Windfall Apples

There’s something so satisfying about using windfall apples—the ones that might not be picture-perfect but are bursting with flavour. It’s a lovely reminder of nature’s generosity, and here, in our tucked-away corner of North Devon, we embrace this wholeheartedly. After a morning walk through the woods or across the wildflower meadow with your dog, there’s nothing quite like gathering apples from under the wild apple tree in Little Fox Meadow, knowing they’ll soon fill your kitchen with the delicious scent of autumn.


A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Here’s how I like to make this chutney. The recipe is simple but deeply rewarding—much like the slower pace of life you’ll find when you stay with us at the Linhay.


Ingredients:

1.75 litres apple cider vinegar

900g light soft brown sugar

1.75kg cooking apples, peeled, cored & roughly chopped

900g chopped onions

450g raisins

4tsp mustard seeds

4tsp curry powder

2 tsp cayenne pepper

6 star anise

2tsp cumin seeds

2 cinnamon sticks or 2 tsp cinnamon

1 bulb of garlic

Thumb size piece of root ginger grated

50g salt

225g walnut pieces


Method:

Put the vinegar and sugar into a large saucepan or preserving pan and bring to the boil.

Add all the other ingredients except the walnuts. Bring the mixture back to the boil and cook, stirring regularly as it get thicker, until it is well-reduced – it will thicken even more once cold. You’ll need to cook it for at least an hour.

Once thickened, stir in the chopped walnuts for a lovely texture, and continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes. You can remove the whole spices at this point – star anise & cinnamon sticks – but I usually leave them in to add an element of surprise!! :D

Spoon the chutney into warmed, sterilised jars and seal with vinegar proof lids. Leave to mature for a few weeks if you can wait—though it’s often too tempting not to dive in straight away!

I usually try to wait until Christmas before eating the chutney to allow time for the flavours to develop and the chutney to mellow & mature.

Enjoy this chutney with cheese, roast meats, or simply on a crusty loaf with butter.



A Taste of Life at Butterhills

This chutney isn’t just about flavours; it’s about the slower, more mindful pace of life we treasure here. At Butterhills, each day offers the simple pleasures of country living—whether it’s foraging in the woods, strolling along our stream meadow, or warming up with a homemade treat after a day spent exploring the rugged beauty of North Devon. And that’s what makes a stay in our Linhay so special—it’s a true digital detox, a step away from the rush of everyday life.


Our off-grid retreat is the perfect place to reconnect—with nature, with your loved ones, and even with yourself. The Linhay, with its cosy stone walls and warm, inviting interior, is a haven for those seeking peace and tranquillity. Imagine coming back after a day spent walking the South West Coast Path, your cheeks pink from the salty sea air, and curling up in front of the fire with delicious local produce to enjoy. Perhaps a jar of local chutney and some of our wonderful Devon cheeses from The Braunton Deli…


Whether you’re joining us for a short escape or a longer stay, we encourage you to embrace the flavours of the season. Book your stay at Butterhills Escapes, and perhaps, like us, you’ll find yourself inspired by the simple, seasonal joys of life in the countryside.


Come experience the magic of autumn at Butterhills and let the flavours of the season lead you into a slower, more fulfilling pace of life. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

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