Mysore Chutney – A Flavorful South Indian Delight
Mysore Chutney is a delightful side dish from Karnataka, often served with South Indian breakfasts such as dosa, idli, or vada. Known for its unique combination of flavors—spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet—this chutney is a staple in many South Indian households. It is quick to prepare and pairs beautifully with crispy dosas or soft idlis. This recipe will guide you through making a traditional Mysore Chutney right at home.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 1 tsp |
| Chana dal (Bengal gram) | ½ cup |
| Dry red chilies | 5 |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coconut powder | 1 tsp |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Ginger | 1 tsp (finely chopped) |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
Instructions
-
Roasting the Dal:
- Begin by heating oil in a pan. Add the chana dal and sauté it for around 10 seconds, allowing it to cook lightly. Once done, set it aside to cool.
-
Soaking Red Chilies:
- In a separate bowl, soak the dry red chilies in warm water for about 30 minutes. This will soften the chilies and make them easier to blend.
-
Grinding the Chutney:
- After the chilies have soaked, drain the water and add the soaked chilies to a blender. Along with the chilies, add the roasted chana dal, lemon juice, salt, coconut powder, curry leaves, and chopped ginger.
- Add a little water to help blend the mixture smoothly. Grind everything into a fine paste.
-
Serving:
- Once the chutney is ready, transfer it to a bowl and serve it fresh. Mysore Chutney is best enjoyed with crispy dosas, soft idlis, or even with rava idli for a perfect South Indian breakfast.
Tips:
- Adjust Spice Levels: You can adjust the number of dry red chilies according to your preference for spice.
- Tanginess: If you prefer a tangier chutney, add more lemon juice or a small amount of tamarind paste.
- Storage: The chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Enjoy this authentic South Indian chutney as a flavorful accompaniment to your morning meals or as a side dish with your favorite snacks!
