Relish & Chutney

Best Relishes & Chutneys to Elevate Your Plate: Top US Stores and Standout Picks

Why relishes and chutneys deserve a permanent spot in your pantry

Think of relishes and chutneys as the secret handshake between ordinary meals and memorable ones. A spoonful can turn a plain sandwich into a layered experience, lift a grilled steak with tangy brightness, or add a sweet-spicy counterpoint to sharp cheeses. Whether you prefer sweet mango chutneys or spicy pepper relishes, these condiments are small jars with big personalities — and they’re easy to experiment with.

Where to shop: Top US stores for relishes and chutneys

If you’re wondering where to buy the best relishes and chutneys, you have plenty of solid options across the US. Big-box retailers, specialty grocers, and online marketplaces all stock a wide variety, from shelf-stable classics to artisanal small-batch jars. Below are reliable places to start your search.

Walmart — reliable selection and value

Walmart carries a broad range of condiments, from household names to imported finds. You can pick up pantry staples or sample unique jars like Alexandra S Pikliz Spicy Pepper Relish (7.5 oz) for a Haitian-inspired kick, or a Brooklyn Delhi Major Grey’s Style Mango Chutney in a convenient 2-pack for sweet-and-tangy versatility. Walmart often mixes national brands with regional specialties, making it a one-stop option for many shoppers.

Amazon — huge selection and niche brands

Want harder-to-find chutneys or international relishes delivered to your door? Amazon marketplace hosts everything from mass-market jars to artisanal small-batch products. If you’re exploring flavors from South Asia, the Caribbean, or specialty American makers, Amazon is a good place to compare price points and read user reviews before you buy.

Whole Foods Market — organic and gourmet choices

Whole Foods tends to carry premium, organic, and specialty brands that focus on clean ingredients. If you prefer relishes and chutneys made with organic fruit, minimal additives, or locally sourced produce, Whole Foods is worth a visit. The staff-friendly environment also makes it easy to ask about ingredients and flavor profiles.

Trader Joe’s — budget-friendly and creative options

Trader Joe’s is known for its curated selection of unique private-label condiments. Their chutneys and relishes rotate seasonally and frequently feature creative combinations that punch above their price. If you like surprises and value, Trader Joe’s can deliver interesting jars without breaking the bank.

Kroger & Affiliates — broad footprint and frequent sales

Kroger and its family of stores (Ralphs, Fred Meyer, King Soopers) balance affordability with brand variety. Look for sales or digital coupons to score familiar brands at a discount, and check both the international aisle and the condiment shelf for hidden gems.

Wegmans, Sprouts & Regional Grocers — specialty finds and local makers

Regional chains like Wegmans and Sprouts often stock local artisanal brands you won’t see in big national stores. These grocers can be great for discovering small producers who focus on traditional recipes or novel flavor mashups — think smoky mango chutney or fermented pepper relish with a twist.

Understanding the difference: relish vs. chutney

Relish and chutney are cousins in the condiment family, but they play different roles. Relish tends to be finely chopped vegetables or fruits preserved in a vinegar or brine base — think dill pickle relish for hot dogs. Chutney, on the other hand, often blends fruit with sugar, vinegar, and spices, yielding a thicker, jam-like condiment with sweet, spicy, and tangy notes — mango chutney is a classic example. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right jar for the dish in mind.

When to pick a relish

Reach for relish when you want crunchy texture and sharp acidity. Relish is an excellent partner for grilled sausages, cold potato salads, or a creamy tuna spread where a bright ping of flavor cuts through richness.

When to pick a chutney

Choose chutney for complex sweet-spicy-sour layers that can stand alone as a glaze or accompaniment. Mango or apple chutneys pair beautifully with roasted meats, cheese boards, or as a sticky glaze on chicken — they’re the shorthand for a dish that feels globally inspired.

Popular brands and standout jars to try

There are household brands and niche makers worth exploring. From the piquant punch of Alexandra S Pikliz Spicy Pepper Relish (7.5 oz) to the mellow sweetness of Brooklyn Delhi Major Grey’s Style Mango Chutney (2-pack), each jar tells a story. Other respected names include Patak’s, Mrs. Renfro’s, and small-batch local producers — all offering different balances of heat, sweetness, and texture.

Alexandra S Pikliz — what to expect

Alexandra S Pikliz brings a lively Haitian-style pepper relish that typically features hot peppers, cabbage, carrots, and vinegar — ideal for tacos, sandwiches, or as a zesty topping for grilled fish. The 7.5 oz jar size is handy for experimenting without commitment.

Brooklyn Delhi Major Grey’s Style Mango Chutney — why it stands out

Brooklyn Delhi’s Major Grey’s Style Mango Chutney is a modern take on a British-Indian classic: ripe mango sweetness balanced by vinegar, spices, and a touch of heat. The 2-pack format is perfect if you’re using chutney for several meals or sharing with friends at a gathering.

How to choose the perfect jar: taste, ingredients, and labels

Choosing a jar isn’t only about the label; it’s about matching flavor intensity to the food you cook. Look at sugar and sodium levels if you’re health-conscious, inspect the ingredient list for added preservatives if you prefer minimal processing, and check for allergen statements if necessary. Vegan and gluten-free labels are common on many modern chutneys and relishes, but always read the fine print.

Heat level: mild to blistering

Relishes and chutneys span a temperature range from gentle warmth to full-on heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, find products labeled “mild” or “medium,” or look for fruit-forward chutneys. For those who love flames on the tongue, pick pepper-heavy relishes or chutneys with chili flakes and black pepper.

Texture and consistency

Texture affects how the condiment performs. Chunky relishes add crunch and work well on burgers and hot dogs, while smoother chutneys are better as glazes, dipping sauces, or cheese companions. If texture matters for your dish, pick accordingly.

Creative ways to use relishes and chutneys

If you’re tired of the same old toast-and-jam routine, relishes and chutneys are a quick way to jazz up meals. Think beyond the sandwich: use them as marinades, mix them into dressings, or spoon them over roasted vegetables. They’re like flavor cheat codes — a small amount unlocks a lot of depth.

Burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches

Swap ketchup for a spicy pepper relish on your burger to get a sharper, brighter hit. Mango chutney can replace classic condiments on a turkey or roast beef sandwich to add complexity without extra salt.

Cheese boards and charcuterie

Cheese and chutney are best friends. A sweet mango chutney pairs wonderfully with sharp cheddar or aged gouda, while tangy relishes can offset creamy bries. Think of relishes and chutneys as the jam in your cheese board — they bridge savory and sweet.

Glazes, marinades, and sauces

Use chutney as a glaze for roasted chicken or pork, thinning it with a splash of water or vinegar if needed. Relish can be stirred into mayo or yogurt to create a quick slaw dressing or sandwich spread. They’re versatile flavor bases for both weeknight meals and weekend grilling.

Breakfast & brunch ideas

Yes, chutney at breakfast — it works. Spoon a fruit chutney over savory pancakes or pair a peppery relish with scrambled eggs and toasted sourdough for a breakfast that wakes up your palate.

Simple homemade relish and chutney basics

Making your own chutney or relish can be surprisingly straightforward and rewarding. Fresh fruit or vegetables, vinegar, sugar, and spices are the building blocks. If you enjoy DIY projects, homemade jars let you control sugar, salt, and spice while experimenting with seasonal produce.

Basic chutney method

Start with chopped fruit (mango, apple, or stone fruit), add a cup of vinegar per pound of fruit as a guideline, and sweeten with sugar to taste. Simmer with spices like mustard seed, ginger, or cinnamon until thickened. Cool and jar. You’ll get a sense of how the flavors meld as the chutney sits, often improving after a day or two.

Basic relish method

For relish, finely chop cucumbers, peppers, or cabbage and blanch or salt to remove excess water if needed. Mix with vinegar, sugar, and salt, then cook briefly or leave fresh as a quick pickle. Store chilled and use within a few weeks for best crunch.

Storage, shelf life, and safety tips

Most commercial relishes and chutneys are shelf-stable unopened, but once opened, pop them in the refrigerator to preserve flavor and quality. Refrigerated jars generally last several weeks to a few months depending on sugar content and preservatives. Use a clean spoon each time to avoid introducing contaminants.

Health and nutrition considerations

Relishes and chutneys vary widely in calories and sugar content. Fruit-based chutneys can be high in sugar, while vegetable-based relishes may be lower in calories but higher in sodium due to vinegar brines. If you’re watching sugar or salt, compare labels and choose low-sugar or reduced-sodium options when available. Many brands also offer organic, preservative-free, or vegan formulations.

Shopping tips to save money and discover new flavors

Want to build a stash of condiments without blowing your grocery budget? Look for multipacks like the Brooklyn Delhi Major Grey’s Style Mango Chutney 2-pack to get more for less. Watch weekly store flyers, loyalty apps, and online marketplaces for discounts. Trying store brands or private labels is another great way to explore new tastes affordably — many private-label chutneys deliver big flavor at small prices.

Pairing cheat sheet: quick matches to try tonight

Here are simple pairings that work almost every time: spicy pepper relish with grilled sausages, mango chutney with roasted chicken or curry, dill relish with potato salad or tuna salad, and tomato-based chutneys with sharp cheeses. Keep a few jars on hand and let them become your go-to finishing touch.

Conclusion

Relishes and chutneys are tiny jars with enormous potential — a dash of personality for any meal. Whether you shop at Walmart and pick up tried-and-true jars like Alexandra S Pikliz Spicy Pepper Relish (7.5 oz) or Brooklyn Delhi Major Grey’s Style Mango Chutney in a 2-pack, or you explore specialty aisles at Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, or local grocers, there’s a perfect jar waiting to be discovered. Experiment, pair boldly, and don’t be afraid to swap your usual condiments for something that surprises and delights.