Apple Chutney

Ming says: Apples are, of course, great raw, but they're equally good, if not better, cooked. This tart-sweet chutney, spiked with ginger, takes advantage of the fact, and ups the taste ante by using fragrant Fuji apples. This wonderful apple provides subtly sweet flavor; it also keeps its shape when cooked, so the finished chutney has body. (If you can't get Fujis, any non-mealy apple can be substituted.) Chutneys are great, versatile condiments to have on hand, and this is one of the best. Keep the chutney in the fridge. Its flavor will intensify with time.

This makes a terrific spread for a grilled ham and cheese sandwich. Purée the chutney in a blender or food processor and use it as a dip for pork or duck satays. Make a superior mince pie by filling a prebaked 10-inch pie shell (purchased is fine) with a mixture of 1 1/2 cups diced cooked pork and 2 cups of the chutney. Bake until the filling is heated through, 30 to 40 minutes.