Discovering the World of Indian Chutney: From Raw Mango to Coconut White Chutney

India is a land of diverse flavors, where you can find an array of chutneys. A chutney is a blend of spices, herbs, and fruits, often used as a side to enhance the flavor of a dish. One of the most popular chutneys in the Indian kitchen is Raw Mango Chutney, which is a staple in many households and a favorite on festive dining tables.

The Art of Mango Chutney Making

Kerala Style Mango Coconut Chutney (Manga Chammandi) is one of my favorite varieties. This traditional chutney is not only a feast for the palate but also a cherished memory of childhood. When my mother was busy with her evening chores, my father would whip up this delightful chutney. The ingredients are simple yet addictive:

Peeled and chopped unripe mango (kacche aam) Peeled and chopped onion A small blob of tamarind A small piece of ginger A dried red chili A pinch of salt A small cup of grated coconut 1 teaspoon of red chili powder (optional)

My father would mix all the ingredients in a small mixer jar, add a small spoon of coconut oil, and blend with a little bit of water. The result is a mouthwatering "Manga chamandi" that pairs perfectly with steaming hot rice.

White Coconut Chutney: A Flavorful Breakfast Delight

Another beloved chutney in Indian cuisine is The White Coconut Chutney. It's my favorite as it's perfect for breakfast, especially with idli, dosai, pongal, vadais, upma, adais, bajjis, bondas, and paniyaram. This chutney is mild, sweet, and doesn't have the strong smell of coriander or mint or onion chutneys, making it a perfect companion for morning meals. It can be spiced up with extra green or red chillies or roasted gram if desired.

To make it, grind together with a little water the following ingredients:

Coco Green chillies Roasted gram Cumin seeds A small piece of asafoetida Salt

Add a tempering of mustard seeds, broken red chilly, curry leaves, and broken black gram. This chutney can be stored in the fridge for up to three days if made in small quantities and fried in oil with tamarind and black gram for added preservation.

Preserving the Chutney

A traditional way to preserve the chutney is by adding a bit of oil to a pan and frying in it black gram, green chillies, red chilly, cumin seeds, few curry leaves, asafoetida, sliced coconut, and a small piece of tamarind. Once fried, grind them with salt and water. You can store it in the fridge for up to four days with this method.

For an extra flavor, you can add sesame oil, and you can choose your own tempering to suit your taste.

Unforgettable Flavors of Indian Chutney

Beyond the raw mango chutney, there are countless other varieties of chutney in Indian cuisine. Each region has its own unique blend of ingredients to suit the local palate and dietary needs.

Share your favorite kind of chutney in the comment section below and let's explore more of these delightful condiments that bring so much flavor to Indian cuisine.

FYI:

For those looking to enjoy these chutneys without the effort of making them, offers a wide range of Indian chutneys and spices that can be delivered right to your doorstep. Perfect for spice enthusiasts or those who love to gift handmade chutneys.

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Disclaimer

For those with medical conditions or dietary restrictions, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or dietician before consuming any new foods or spices.

Final Thoughts

Indian chutney is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the subcontinent. Whether it's a sweet and spicy mango chutney or a mild coconut white chutney, these condiments are an integral part of Indian cuisine, adding depth and flavor to meals. Explore the world of Indian chutney and discover new flavors that will delight your taste buds!