Karnataka Style Mango Rasa (Mangrasa) Recipe
Introduction
Karnataka Style Mango Rasa, also known as Mangrasa, is a traditional South Indian chutney that brings together the delightful flavors of tangy, sweet, and spicy elements. This chutney is a perfect way to make the most of the last mangoes available at the end of the mango season, especially using the unique Gini Moothi or Totapuri mangoes. The raw mangoes, combined with jaggery, aromatic spices like cumin, fenugreek, and red chili powder, create a harmonious blend of flavors. Served as a side dish, this chutney can elevate any meal, making it a beloved part of Karnataka’s culinary heritage.
Cuisine: Karnataka
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw Mango (Totapuri cultivar) | 2 (half-ripened) |
| Jaggery (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Red Chili Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 2 teaspoons |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 2 teaspoons |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Water | 1/2 cup (adjust as needed) |
| Coconut Oil | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prep the Mangoes:
Begin by peeling the raw mangoes and slicing them into thin, small pieces. Set the sliced mango aside for later use. -
Roast Fenugreek Seeds:
In a small tadka pan, dry roast the fenugreek seeds on medium heat. Roast until you begin to smell a pleasant, nutty aroma. Once roasted, remove the seeds from the pan and set them aside to cool. -
Sauté Cumin Seeds:
Using the same pan, add cumin seeds and sauté them on medium heat for about a minute, or until they become fragrant. Remove the pan from the heat and let the cumin seeds cool down. -
Grind the Spices:
Once both the fenugreek and cumin seeds have cooled, transfer them to a mixer or grinder. Grind them into a fine powder. Set this spice mix aside for later. -
Heat the Oil:
In a separate pan, heat coconut oil over medium flame for about a minute. Once heated, add the ground spice mixture to the oil and sauté for a minute to release the flavors. -
Add Asafoetida (Hing):
Now, add the asafoetida (hing) to the pan and cook for about 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Cook the Mangoes:
Add the sliced mango pieces to the pan and cook them on medium heat for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices. -
Add Jaggery and Spice:
Once the mangoes have softened, add the grated jaggery, red chili powder, and salt to the pan. Stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients well. -
Simmer with Water:
Add 1/2 cup of water to the pan and stir. Let the chutney simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the jaggery to dissolve completely into the mango mixture. -
Final Cooking:
Continue to cook the mango mixture on medium heat for an additional 5 minutes, or until it thickens to a jam-like consistency. -
Cool and Store:
Turn off the heat and let the chutney cool. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container for storage. This mango chutney will stay fresh for about 5-7 days when refrigerated.
Serving Suggestions
This flavorful Karnataka-style Mango Rasa, or Mangrasa, pairs beautifully with Udupi Style Pelakai Teepee Dosa (Banana Dosa) and South Indian Coconut Chutney. It’s an excellent accompaniment to any South Indian breakfast or can be served as a tangy, flavorful side dish to complement other meals.
Nutritional Information
This chutney provides a balanced combination of sweetness, spice, and tang, all thanks to the natural ingredients. While it is rich in flavor, it also offers numerous health benefits:
- Raw Mangoes: Rich in vitamin C, aiding digestion and boosting immunity.
- Jaggery: A natural sweetener that provides essential minerals like iron and magnesium.
- Fenugreek and Cumin Seeds: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Coconut Oil: A healthy fat that provides energy and supports heart health.
Conclusion
The Karnataka Style Mango Rasa (Mangrasa) is an aromatic, flavorful chutney that is both simple and delightful to prepare. The unique combination of raw mangoes, jaggery, and aromatic spices makes it a standout dish in any Indian meal. This chutney not only adds a burst of flavor but also celebrates the cultural heritage of Karnataka’s cuisine. Whether paired with dosas or enjoyed with your favorite meal, Mangrasa is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
