Garlic Chutney Recipe - Vegan & Vegetarian Delight from Asia & Africa

Garlic Chutney

Garlic Chutney Recipe - Vegan & Vegetarian Delight from Asia & Africa
Region / culture: Africa, Asia, India, Kenya, Southern Asia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4 | Vegan diet

Introduction

Garlic Chutney
Garlic Chutney

Garlic chutney is a popular condiment in Indian cuisine, known for its bold and spicy flavor. This versatile chutney can be served with a variety of dishes, adding a kick of flavor to any meal.

History

Garlic chutney has been a staple in Indian cooking for centuries, with variations of the recipe found in different regions of the country. It is believed to have originated in the state of Maharashtra, where it is commonly served with street food snacks like vada pav and bhel puri.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Grind all the above ingredients together with a small amount of water until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a clean saucepan and heat it.
  2. Spoon or scoop the herb-based chutney into a small bowl. Serve this flavorful chutney with appetizers, side dishes, or main dishes.

Variations

  • Add roasted peanuts or sesame seeds for a nutty flavor.
  • Include tamarind paste for a tangy twist.
  • Mix in fresh coriander leaves for a vibrant green color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Adjust the amount of red chilies based on your spice preference.

- Store the chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

- For a smoother texture, you can strain the chutney after grinding the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve garlic chutney with appetizers like samosas or pakoras, or as a side condiment with main dishes like biryani or curry.

Cooking Techniques

Grind the ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth for the best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute fresh red chilies with dried red chili flakes for a milder heat level.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the garlic chutney ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for quick and easy meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the garlic chutney in a small bowl garnished with fresh coriander leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair garlic chutney with dishes like dosa, idli, or roti for a delicious combination of flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover garlic chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of garlic chutney typically contains around 20-30 calories.

Carbohydrates

Garlic chutney is low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable condiment for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

Garlic chutney is low in fats, making it a healthy addition to your meals.

Proteins

Garlic chutney is not a significant source of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Garlic chutney is rich in vitamin C and manganese, providing a boost of antioxidants and essential nutrients.

Alergens

Garlic chutney may contain allergens such as garlic and red chilies. It is important to check for any allergies before consuming.

Summary

Garlic chutney is a flavorful condiment that is low in calories and fats, making it a healthy addition to your meals.

Summary

Garlic chutney is a versatile condiment that adds a bold and spicy flavor to a variety of dishes. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this chutney is a must-have in your kitchen for an extra kick of flavor.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my friend Anna in her quaint little village. As we sat in her kitchen, sipping on tea and chatting about life, she suddenly got up and rummaged through her spice cabinet. She pulled out a small jar of a vibrant red paste and placed it on the table in front of me.

"This is my special garlic chutney," she said with a smile. "It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."

Intrigued, I leaned in closer to get a whiff of the pungent aroma. The scent of garlic, chilies, and various spices wafted up and tickled my nose. I could already imagine the burst of flavors it would bring to any dish.

Anna noticed my curiosity and offered to show me how to make it. She handed me a mortar and pestle and instructed me to crush together garlic, red chilies, salt, cumin seeds, and a splash of vinegar. As I pounded away, the ingredients melded together into a fiery paste that was both spicy and tangy.

After we finished making the chutney, Anna slathered it on freshly baked bread and handed me a bite. The explosion of flavors in my mouth left me speechless. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this chutney myself.

Over the next few weeks, I visited Anna every chance I got to learn more about the art of making garlic chutney. She taught me the importance of balancing the flavors and adjusting the spice level to suit my taste. I took notes and observed her every move, determined to master the recipe.

As time went on, I started experimenting with different variations of the chutney. I added roasted peanuts for a nutty crunch, tamarind for a hint of sweetness, and even some fresh mint leaves for a burst of freshness. Each batch I made brought me closer to perfection, and I couldn't wait to share my creation with my family.

One sunny afternoon, I invited my family over for a backyard barbecue. I had prepared a feast of grilled meats, salads, and, of course, my homemade garlic chutney. As they sat down to eat, I watched their faces light up with delight as they sampled the chutney with various dishes.

"That chutney is amazing, dear!" my grandmother exclaimed with a mouthful of food. "You must give me the recipe so I can make it at home."

I beamed with pride as I shared the recipe with her and promised to teach her how to make it herself. Little did I know that this simple act of sharing a recipe would open up a whole new world of culinary adventures for me.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my garlic chutney recipe, adding new ingredients and tweaking the proportions to suit different palates. I shared it with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who had heard of my legendary chutney. It became my signature dish, my claim to fame in the world of cooking.

As I look back on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for Anna and her willingness to share her family's secret with me. I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to ignite a passion for cooking.

And so, every time I make a batch of garlic chutney, I am transported back to that fateful day in Anna's kitchen, where a simple jar of red paste sparked a lifelong love affair with flavors and aromas that continue to inspire me to this day.

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