Tamarind Chutney

Tamarind Chutney Recipe - Traditional Indian Recipe

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tamarind chutney is a popular condiment in Indian cuisine, known for its sweet and tangy flavor. It is typically served alongside savory dishes such as samosas, pakoras, and chaat. This versatile chutney can also be used as a dipping sauce or marinade for grilled meats.

History

Tamarind chutney has been a staple in Indian cooking for centuries. Tamarind, a tropical fruit with a tangy flavor, is commonly used in Indian cuisine to add a sour note to dishes. The combination of tamarind, sugar, and spices in this chutney creates a unique flavor profile that enhances the taste of various dishes.

Ingredients

1 cup of tamarind paste
2 cups of water
0.5 tsp of red chili powder
0.25 tsp of dried ginger powder
0.75 cup of jaggery (brown sugar can be used as a substitute)
salt, to taste

How to prepare

In a deep pan, combine tamarind paste, water, and jaggery. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add salt, ginger powder, and chili powder to the pan. Continue boiling over medium heat until the mixture thickens to a sauce-like consistency.
Allow the mixture to cool and store it in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.

Variations

Add mint or cilantro for a fresh herb flavor.
Include roasted cumin seeds or black salt for a different spice profile.
Use jaggery or honey instead of brown sugar for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Adjust the amount of sugar and spices according to your taste preferences.

- For a smoother consistency, strain the chutney through a fine mesh sieve before storing.

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

Serving Suggestions

Serve tamarind chutney with samosas, pakoras, or chaat for a delicious appetizer.

- Use it as a dipping sauce for grilled meats or vegetables.

- Mix it with yogurt to create a tangy dressing for salads or wraps.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the tamarind paste with water to extract the flavor and create a thick consistency.

- Adjust the cooking time to achieve the desired thickness of the chutney.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tamarind concentrate instead of tamarind paste for a quicker preparation.

- Substitute white sugar for brown sugar if desired.

- Replace dried ginger powder with fresh grated ginger for a stronger flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Tamarind chutney can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a month.

- Prepare a large batch and portion it into smaller containers for easy use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve tamarind chutney in small bowls or jars for a colorful and appetizing presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chili powder for added visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair tamarind chutney with spicy dishes to balance the heat with its sweet and tangy flavor.

- Serve it alongside grilled meats, rice dishes, or flatbreads for a delicious combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store tamarind chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving, if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Each serving of tamarind chutney contains approximately 60 calories.

Carbohydrates

- Tamarind chutney is high in carbohydrates due to the sugar content.

- Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

- Tamarind chutney is low in fats, making it a healthier condiment option.

- Each serving contains less than 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

- Tamarind chutney does not contain significant amounts of protein.

- Each serving contains less than 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Tamarind chutney is a good source of vitamin C and iron.

- It also contains small amounts of calcium and potassium.

Alergens

Tamarind chutney may contain allergens such as nuts or seeds, depending on the recipe.

- Check the ingredients list for any potential allergens before consuming.

Summary

Tamarind chutney is a flavorful condiment that is relatively low in fats and calories.

- It is a good source of vitamin C and iron, making it a nutritious addition to your meals.

Summary

Tamarind chutney is a versatile condiment that adds a sweet and tangy flavor to a variety of dishes. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this chutney is a must-have in your pantry for adding a burst of flavor to your meals.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Tamarind Chutney. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in India. My grandmother, who was an incredible cook, had learned this recipe from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. The recipe had been passed down through generations, and now it was my turn to learn the secrets of making this delicious chutney.

I remember watching my grandmother as she carefully measured out the tamarind pulp, jaggery, and spices. She explained to me the importance of each ingredient and how they all worked together to create the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. As she mixed everything together in a large pot and let it simmer on the stove, the aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely intoxicating.

As the chutney cooked, my grandmother shared with me the story of how she had first learned to make it. She told me that when she was a young bride, her mother-in-law had taken her under her wing and taught her all of the family recipes. Tamarind Chutney was one of the first recipes she had learned, and it had quickly become one of her favorites.

My grandmother explained to me that the key to making the perfect Tamarind Chutney was to let it cook slowly and patiently, allowing the flavors to develop and meld together. She told me that the longer you cooked it, the better it would taste, and that it was important to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

As I watched and listened to my grandmother, I realized that there was so much more to cooking than just following a recipe. It was about tradition, family, and love. Each dish carried with it a story, a memory, and a connection to the past.

Once the chutney was ready, my grandmother filled small jars with it and sealed them tightly. She told me that the chutney would only get better with time, as the flavors continued to develop and mature. I couldn't wait to try it, and when I finally did, I was blown away by how delicious it was. The perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and spiciness made it the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Over the years, I have made Tamarind Chutney countless times, each time thinking of my grandmother and the lessons she taught me in the kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that was handed down to me.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that moment so many years ago when I first learned to make Tamarind Chutney, I am filled with gratitude for the knowledge and wisdom that has been passed down through the generations. Cooking has always been more than just a task for me – it is a way to connect with my roots, honor my heritage, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And for that, I am truly thankful.