Apple Chundo

Sometimes the best recipes come from saving ingredients that are just sitting around waiting to be used. This Apple Chundo is exactly that—a delicious “happy ending” for two apples no one wants to eat and a mango that isn’t quite ready to ripen. The result is a sweet, tangy, and lightly spiced pickle that pairs beautifully with everyday meals.

Ingredients
• 2 red apples, grated (green apples can also be used)
• 1 slightly ripe mango, grated
• Total grated fruit weight: 350 g
• 150 g jaggery
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1-inch small cinnamon stick
• 5 cloves (lightly crushed)
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp Kashmiri chili powder (optional)

Important Notes
• Using green apples only? Skip the mango entirely. Green apples already provide a nice tangy flavor similar to traditional chundo.
• Adjust jaggery:
– if using mango + apples → use 150 g jaggery
– If using only green apples → increase jaggery slightly (about 170–180 g, or to taste) to balance the tartness

Instructions

1. Prepare the fruit – Grate the apples and mango.

2. Mix and rest – In a bowl, combine the grated apples, mango, jaggery and salt. Mix well and let it rest for 2 hours. This helps release natural juices and dissolve the jaggery.

3. Add spices – Lightly crush the cinnamon stick and cloves. Add them to the fruit mixture along with the salt.

4. Cook the chundo – Transfer the mixture to a thick bottom stainless still pan and cook on low to medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the mixture thickens and reaches a syrupy consistency (7-10 minutes). Don’t cook until it’s completely dry as this pickle will thicken sore in fridge.

5. Finish with cumin – Turn off the heat and add cumin powder. Mix well.

6. Add chili powder (optional) – Once the mixture has cooled completely, add Kashmiri chili powder for a mild heat and vibrant color. Mix thoroughly.

7. Store – Transfer the chundo to a clean, dry glass container. Store it in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this Apple Chundo as a side with:
• Muthiya and Dhokla
• Thepla
• Cheese boards for a sweet-spicy twist

This simple, resourceful recipe transforms overlooked fruit into a flavorful condiment you’ll keep reaching for.

Share Your Experience

Try making Chundo at home and share your experience with us! We’d love to hear about your favorite ways to enjoy this traditional Gujarati pickle.