Coconut Chutney Recipe
Coconut chutney is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that is a staple in every South Indian household. This chutney is simple to prepare, combining the natural sweetness of coconut with the mild heat of green chillies, the richness of Bengal gram dal (chana dal), and a hint of ginger. Ideal for pairing with Idli, Dosa, or Upma, this chutney makes the perfect addition to your breakfast or a light snack.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Coconut Chutney
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Coconut (grated) | 1 cup |
| Bengal gram dal (chana dal, roasted) | 1 tablespoon |
| Almonds | 5 whole |
| Green chillies | 2 |
| Ginger (fresh) | 1-inch piece |
| Mustard seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| White urad dal | 1 teaspoon |
| Oil | As needed (for tempering) |
| Curry leaves | 4, finely chopped |
| Dried red chillies | 2 |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Instructions
-
Grind the Ingredients:
In a mixer grinder, combine the grated coconut, green chillies, roasted chana dal, almonds, ginger, and 1/2 cup of hot water. Blend them together until smooth and well-combined. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and set aside. -
Prepare the Tempering:
In a small tempering pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. Next, add the urad dal and sauté until the dal turns a light golden brown. Add the curry leaves and dried red chillies, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. -
Combine the Tempering and Chutney:
Pour the hot tempering over the coconut chutney mixture and stir well. Add salt to taste and mix in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an added tangy flavor. -
Serve:
Serve your freshly prepared coconut chutney alongside crispy Ghee Roast Dosa and a bowl of Mixed Vegetable Sambar for a delightful South Indian breakfast. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Coconut Chutney:
- You can adjust the level of heat in the chutney by adding more or fewer green chillies, depending on your spice preference.
- If you prefer a smoother chutney, add a bit more water while grinding.
- This chutney can be stored in the refrigerator for 1–2 days. Always serve fresh for the best taste.
Coconut chutney is not just a side dish, but an integral part of South Indian cuisine. The blend of coconut, spices, and tempering adds a rich and balanced flavor that enhances the taste of your main dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional breakfast or simply looking to explore new flavors, this coconut chutney will quickly become a favorite addition to your culinary repertoire!
