Sri Lankan Coconut Cilantro Chutney
Sri Lankan Coconut Cilantro Chutney Recipe - Aromatic and Delicious!
Introduction
Sri Lankan Coconut Cilantro Chutney is a flavorful and aromatic condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes. This chutney is made with fresh cilantro leaves, coconut, ginger, and a blend of spices, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile.
History
This traditional Sri Lankan chutney has been enjoyed for generations as a versatile accompaniment to many dishes. The combination of coconut and cilantro is a classic flavor pairing in Sri Lankan cuisine, adding a fresh and vibrant element to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut meat
- 0.25 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper or red curry powder (Thai)
- 0.5 cup nonfat plain yogurt
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice or lime
How to prepare
- In a mixing/serving bowl, combine all of the ingredients and blend well.
- Chill the mixture for at least one hour.
- Note: Toast the coconut with ginger in a dry pan, then combine with the other ingredients.
Variations
- Add a handful of mint leaves for a refreshing twist.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
- Include a squeeze of lemon juice for extra tanginess.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Toasting the coconut and ginger before blending with the other ingredients can enhance the flavor of the chutney.
- Adjust the amount of salt and spices to suit your personal taste preferences.
- For a spicier version, add a chopped green chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Store the chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chutney alongside grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian dishes. It also makes a delicious topping for rice or noodles.
Cooking Techniques
Toasting the coconut and ginger adds depth of flavor to the chutney.
- Blending all the ingredients together creates a smooth and creamy consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use dried cilantro if fresh cilantro is not available.
- Substitute coconut milk for coconut meat for a creamier chutney.
Make Ahead Tips
This chutney can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the chutney in a small bowl garnished with a sprig of cilantro or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
This chutney pairs well with dishes such as grilled chicken, fish curry, or vegetable stir-fry. It also complements rice dishes and flatbreads.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store the chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving, or gently reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 80
Carbohydrates
Total Carbohydrates: 6g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Fats
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Proteins
Protein: 2g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin C: 5mg
Iron: 1mg
Alergens
Contains: Coconut, Dairy
Summary
This Sri Lankan Coconut Cilantro Chutney is a nutritious condiment that provides a good source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy addition to your meals.
Summary
Sri Lankan Coconut Cilantro Chutney is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a burst of freshness to any meal. With its blend of coconut, cilantro, and spices, this chutney is a delicious accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Enjoy the unique flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine with this easy and delicious recipe.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before - a perfect blend of flavors that danced on my taste buds. The vibrant green hue of the cilantro mixed with the creamy white coconut was a sight to behold. I knew that I had to learn how to make this Sri Lankan Coconut Cilantro Chutney.
I first came across this recipe when I was visiting a friend in Sri Lanka. We were sitting in her kitchen, sipping on steaming cups of Ceylon tea, when her mother brought out a bowl of this delicious chutney. As soon as I tasted it, I was hooked. The tangy lime juice, the spicy green chilies, and the fragrant cilantro all came together in perfect harmony. I begged my friend's mother to teach me how to make it, and she graciously agreed.
She showed me how to grind fresh cilantro leaves, grated coconut, green chilies, and garlic together in a mortar and pestle. The smell that wafted up from the bowl was intoxicating. I added a squeeze of lime juice, a pinch of salt, and a dollop of yogurt to the mixture, stirring it all together until it was well combined. The result was a creamy, spicy, and zesty chutney that I knew I would be making for years to come.
When I returned home, I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my own family. I made a big batch of Sri Lankan Coconut Cilantro Chutney and served it alongside some spicy curries and fluffy rice. My family's eyes lit up when they tasted it, and they couldn't get enough. From that day on, it became a staple in our household.
Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a handful of fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of freshness. Other times, I throw in a few roasted cashews for some crunch. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that kitchen in Sri Lanka, surrounded by the sights and smells of a faraway land.
I have shared this recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all fallen in love with it. They always ask me where I learned to make such a unique and delicious chutney. I smile and tell them the story of that fateful day in Sri Lanka, when I first tasted this culinary masterpiece.
As I have grown older, my love for cooking has only deepened. I have collected recipes from all over the world, each one telling a story of its own. But it is this Sri Lankan Coconut Cilantro Chutney that holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish the soul.
So the next time you are looking for a new recipe to try, I urge you to give this one a go. Let the flavors of cilantro, coconut, and lime transport you to a sun-drenched kitchen in Sri Lanka. And who knows, maybe one day you will be telling your own story of how you learned to make this delicious chutney.
Categories
| Coconut Recipes | Curry Recipes | Lime Recipes | Sri Lankan Appetizers | Sri Lankan Recipes | Yogurt Recipes |