Rhubarb, Onion and Raisin Chutney

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds onions, halved lengthwise and cut crosswise into 1/4 inch slices
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup golden raisins
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 pound rhubarb, trimmed and cut into 1/2 inch pieces (about 3 cups)

Directions

In a large saucepan cook the onions in the oil over moderately low heat, stirring occasionally, until they are softened. While the onions are cooking, in a bowl combine the raisins, 1/2 cup hot water, the vinegar, the cloves, and the sugar, let the mixture stand for 15 minutes, and stir it into the onions. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring, top it with the rhubarb (do not stir in the rhubarb), and cook the mixture, covered, at a slow boil for 5 minutes. Stir the mixture, cook it, uncovered, for 3 to 5 minutes more, or until the rhubarb is just tender, and season the chutney with salt and pepper. The chutney may be made 1 week in advance and kept in an airtight container and chilled. Serve the chutney warm or at room temperature.