Ultimate Guide to Relish & Chutney Deals in the UK: Where to Buy, What to Try, and How to Save

Why relish and chutney deserve a permanent spot on your shelf

Relish and chutney are the little jars that punch well above their weight. Think of them as the sidekicks of your sandwiches, the secret weapon for your cheese board, and the thing that turns a lazy sausage tray into a flavour-packed feast. In the UK, you’ll find everything from classic sweet onion relishes to fiery Indian-style chutneys, and knowing where to shop smartly can save you time and money while boosting every meal.

How to use this guide

This article walks you through the best UK supermarkets and stores for buying relishes and chutneys, explains how to pick the right jar for the job, compares budget and premium options, and points you to comparison tools that help you spot deals quickly. I’ll mix practical tips with product ideas so you can shop with confidence whether you’re feeding a crowd or jazzing up a single sandwich.

Top UK supermarkets for relishes and chutneys

Supermarkets are the most convenient places to snag a jar, and each retailer has its own strengths. Below I cover the main chains and what to expect from their selection and pricing. If you’re looking to compare prices across stores, dedicated comparison sites can give you a quick snapshot so you’re not hopping between aisles unnecessarily.

Tesco — wide range and family-friendly pricing

Tesco stocks a broad selection of relishes and chutneys, from everyday own-brand jars priced to suit a family budget to branded options like Branston or Mrs. Elswood. You’ll typically find jars in the 8 oz to 12 oz range, ideal for frequent cooks who want a dependable staple. Tesco Clubcard deals often lower the price further, so keep an eye on their seasonal promotions.

Sainsbury’s — solid middle ground with premium picks

Sainsbury’s balances affordability with a few premium lines. Their own-brand relishes are reliably good, and the store often stocks artisan or imported chutneys in slightly larger 10 oz jars. If you like to experiment with flavours—think mango chutney with a hint of chilli—Sainsbury’s is a handy stop.

Asda — bargain-friendly options and bulk buys

Asda is a go-to for budget shoppers. You’ll find plenty of value-packed relishes and chutneys that deliver on taste without breaking the bank. Asda also offers multi-buy discounts and larger jar options for families who go through condiments quickly. If you’re feeding a crowd, their deals can represent solid savings.

Morrisons — emphasis on British brands and local producers

Morrisons often champions British-made products, so if you prefer locally produced chutneys or traditional relishes, this is a great place to look. Prices sit in the mid-range and the selection includes both classic flavours and seasonal specials. Morrisons sometimes stocks limited-run artisan jars that make terrific gifts or party centrepieces.

Waitrose — premium, gourmet, and small-batch finds

Waitrose is where you’ll find the fancier end of the spectrum: small-batch chutneys, interesting flavour pairings, and higher-quality ingredients. Expect slightly larger jars in the 10 oz to 14 oz range and packaging that screams “gift-ready.” The price tag is higher, but if you’re after exceptional texture and unusual flavour combinations, Waitrose is worth it.

Aldi & Lidl — unbeatable value and seasonal gems

Hard discounters like Aldi and Lidl rotate their specialty items, and chutneys and relishes pop up as weekly special buys. You’ll often score excellent quality for a low price, but the selection can vary week to week. If you like a surprise find and you’re willing to check back regularly, these shops are treasure troves for bargain hunters.

Ocado & online grocers — convenience and variety

Ocado and other online grocers give you the broadest shelf without leaving home. You can compare jar sizes and brands in minutes, filter by dietary needs, and have a curated selection delivered to your door. Online is the easiest route for tracking down niche chutneys from small producers that supermarkets might not carry.

Marks & Spencer — stylish flavours and upscale packaging

M&S often offers chutneys and relishes that pair with their deli and cooked-food ranges. These jars are designed to complement their signature sandwiches and cheese platters, and the packaging doubles as a neat present. Expect curated flavour combos and consistent quality at mid-to-premium pricing.

Choosing the right relish or chutney: what to look for

Picking the right jar is about more than price. Think texture, sweetness, spice level, and intended use. Is it a chunky relish for burgers, a smooth chutney for cheese, or a fruity chutney to glaze meat? Read labels for sugar and vinegar levels if you’re watching your diet, and opt for natural ingredient lists if you prefer less processing.

Texture matters

Chunky relishes add crunch and body; they’re brilliant on hot dogs or burgers. Smooth chutneys spread well on crackers and sandwich bread. If you want a sauce for glazing, look for more fluid chutneys that melt into sticky glazes under heat.

Sweetness and acid balance

Chutneys are typically sweeter and syrupy, while relishes lean toward tang and crunch. If you plan to pair with strong, salty cheeses, go for sweeter chutneys. For fatty meats, a tangy relish can cut through richness beautifully—like a lemon pickled relish on fried fish.

Heat level and flavour profile

From mild mango chutney to fiery mango-and-chilli blends, heat can transform a jar from mellow to main event. If you’re cooking for children or people sensitive to spice, pick mild options. For adventurous eaters, try chutneys with mustard seeds, tamarind, or smoked chillies for complexity.

Best pairings for relishes and chutneys

Here’s where the magic happens—matching the right jar to the right food. Think of the chutney or relish as the supporting actor that makes the hero shine. Below are popular and unconventional pairings to try.

Cheese boards

Sweet fruit chutneys pair wonderfully with creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert, while tangy onion relishes are perfect with aged cheddars. Try a spiced pear chutney with blue cheese for a show-stopping contrast that’s both sweet and savory.

Grilled and roasted meats

Rich meats love chutney. A mango-and-ginger chutney works brilliantly with roast chicken, while a tomato-based relish with a touch of chilli lifts grilled sausages. For lamb, try a mint-and-mango combination to echo classic flavours with a twist.

Sandwiches and burgers

Relish on a burger is classic; try caramelised onion relish for a sweet-savory hit. For sandwiches, a thin smear of chutney sets off cold cuts and adds moisture to otherwise dry fillings. It’s the difference between “fine” and “memorable.”

Budget buys vs premium jars: what to expect

You can get a perfectly satisfying jar of chutney for pocket change, but premium jars bring unique ingredients, artisanal methods, and sometimes better texture. Here’s how to decide when to splurge.

When to buy budget jars

Budget relishes and chutneys are ideal for everyday cooking, family meals, or when you’re using condiments as a minor component. They provide dependable flavour at low cost—great for frequent use or for mixing into recipes where they’re not the star.

When to choose premium or artisan jars

Pick premium jars for special occasions, gifts, or when the chutney will be front-and-centre—like on a cheese board. Artisanal producers often balance spices more thoughtfully and use superior ingredients, producing deeper, layered flavours that cheap jars can’t match.

Artisan and independent producers to watch

The UK has a lively scene of small-batch chutney makers. These producers often use local fruit and innovative spice blends, creating jars that stand out in flavour and story. Farmers’ markets, deli counters, and independent food halls are the best places to discover them.

Why small-batch jars can be worth it

Small-batch makers usually cook in smaller kettles, tasting and adjusting each batch by hand. That attention often results in more nuanced flavours—think smoked apple chutney or blackcurrant and balsamic relish. You're paying for craft and creativity as much as you are for ingredients.

Smart shopping tips to save money

With a few tricks, you can stock up without overspending. Watch for seasonal sales, multi-buy deals, and supermarket loyalty card offers. Use comparison tools to check prices quickly across retailers, and keep an eye on discount shelves where surplus stock is often reduced.

Buy seasonal and local

Seasonal fruits cost less and taste better, so seasonal chutneys can be both cheaper and more delicious. Local producers often price competitively and might offer samples so you can try before you buy.

Look for multipacks and larger jars

If you use condiments frequently, larger jars or multipacks often work out cheaper per ounce. Just make sure you’ll finish the jar within a reasonable time to avoid waste.

Storage, shelf life, and serving tips

Proper storage keeps your jars tasting fresh. Unopened chutneys and relishes can sit in a cool cupboard for months, but once opened you’ll want to refrigerate them. Use clean spoons to avoid contamination, and try to consume opened jars within a few weeks to maintain top flavour.

Refrigeration and reuse

An opened jar kept in the fridge typically stays good for several weeks—longer if you’re careful with utensils. For larder-style chutneys with high sugar and vinegar content, you may get a longer fridge life, but always trust your senses: if it smells off, don’t taste it.

Serving suggestions

Warm chutney slightly for a glaze on pork or chicken, and serve relishes at room temperature so texture and flavour come through. For cheese boards, present chutney in small ramekins with spoons so guests can help themselves.

Where to compare prices and spot deals

Comparison sites and price-checking apps are a quick way to see which store has the best value for a specific jar. They aggregate promotions and list current prices across multiple retailers, saving you from visiting each supermarket. These tools are especially handy when hunting limited-time offers or seasonal discounts.

Use price alerts and seasonal calendars

Many comparison sites offer alerts when prices drop. Combine that with seasonal calendars—mango chutneys often see promotions in late summer, for example—and you’ll time purchases for maximum savings.

Final thoughts: building a versatile condiment collection

Start with a few staples—a sweet mango chutney, a tangy onion relish, and a spicy chili chutney—and add seasonal or artisan jars as you discover flavours you love. Mix affordable supermarket finds with an occasional premium jar for entertaining. Over time you’ll build a small but mighty condiment shelf that turns everyday meals into something to look forward to.

Quick checklist for buying relishes and chutneys

Before you buy, ask yourself: What am I pairing this with? Do I want sweet, tangy, or spicy? Will I use a whole jar quickly or slowly? Am I shopping for everyday cooking or a special occasion? Answering these questions makes shopping faster and prevents impulse buys that don’t get used.

Now you’re armed with the knowledge to choose jars that fit your taste, your menu, and your budget—whether you buy from big supermarkets, discount chains, online grocers, or local artisan stalls. Happy tasting!

Conclusion: Relish and chutney are small jars with big personality, and the right pick can turn a good meal into a great one. Shop smart across the UK’s major supermarkets and independent producers, compare prices when you can, and don’t be afraid to try new flavours—your next favourite condiment could be just one jar away.