South Indian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and bold spices, and no meal is complete without a generous dollop of chutney. Among the many variations, the tangy, fiery red chutney holds a special place, adding a delicious kick to idlis, dosas, vadas, and more. This versatile condiment is surprisingly easy to make at home, requiring only a handful of readily available ingredients. Forget the store-bought versions; this recipe delivers an authentic taste that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of South India. Its bright red color and complex flavor profile are a testament to the magic of simple ingredients expertly combined.
This simple yet incredibly flavorful red chutney recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. It's a guaranteed way to elevate your South Indian breakfast or snack to a whole new level of deliciousness. Ready to learn how to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and begin crafting your own batch of this irresistible South Indian staple.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Mixer jar
- Tadka pan
Ingredients
- Tomato: 1 large
- Onion: 1 medium
- Curry leaves
- Coriander
- Kashmiri red chili
- Ginger: 1/2 inch
- Garlic cloves: 2-3
- Urad dal: 1 teaspoon
- Dal (or dal): 2 teaspoons
- Salt: to taste
- Oil: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sautéing and Cooking the Base
- Put a pan on the gas and add one teaspoon of oil. Add urad dal, garlic, ginger, and onion. Sauté for five minutes.
- Add tomatoes, curry leaves, salt to taste, and a quarter cup of water. Cook for five minutes.
- Add Kashmiri red chili and sauté for five minutes.
Step 2. Blending the Chutney
- Once cooked, transfer to a mixer jar and grind it without adding water.
- Transfer the chutney to a glass bowl. Add water to the mixer jar, and then add that water to the chutney.
Step 3. Preparing the Tadka
- In a tadka pan, heat oil. Add mustard seeds, urad dal, red chili, and curry leaves. Let it boil.
Step 4. Finishing Touches
- Add coriander and mix for a minute.
- Pour the tadka over the chutney.
Read more: Vegan Carrot Halwa: Easy Indian Dessert Recipe
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Add more or less red chili powder to control the heat according to your preference. You can also use milder chilies like Kashmiri chilies for a less spicy chutney.
2. What if I don't have all the ingredients?
Feel free to substitute! For example, if you don't have tamarind paste, you can use a teaspoon of lime juice instead. Adjust the amount of salt to taste to compensate.
3. How long does the chutney last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this chutney will last for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in ice cube trays for individual portions.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying tang of your homemade South Indian red chutney! This recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick and easy meals. Now go ahead and impress your family and friends with this authentic and delicious condiment.