Menthe Hittu Recipe (Roasted Fenugreek Chutney Powder)
Menthe Hittu, also known as Roasted Fenugreek Chutney Powder, is a flavorful and aromatic Indian condiment made by dry roasting a variety of dals (lentils), spices, and grains. This chutney powder can enhance the flavor of your meals with its unique combination of roasted fenugreek and other spices, making it an excellent accompaniment to rice, chapati, or dosa. With its vibrant, earthy, and spicy notes, Menthe Hittu is a must-have in every Indian kitchen. Let’s dive into the preparation and details of this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients for Menthe Hittu:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White Urad Dal (Whole) | 1 cup |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 cup |
| Arhar Dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1 cup |
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup |
| Horse Gram Dal (Kollu / Kulith) | 2-3 teaspoons |
| Rice | 2 teaspoons |
| Broken Wheat (Dalia / Godumai Rava) | 4-5 teaspoons |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) Seeds | 2-3 teaspoons |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 2 teaspoons |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 4 |
| Curry Leaves | 1/2 cup |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 0 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Serving Size:
- Servings: 300 grams (approximately)
Cuisine:
- Indian
Course:
- Side Dish
Diet:
- Vegetarian
Instructions for Preparing Menthe Hittu:
To make this flavorful chutney powder, follow these easy steps:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Gather all the listed ingredients before starting. This will ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process. -
Roast the Ingredients:
In a large frying pan or kadai, begin dry roasting each ingredient separately. This step is crucial to bring out the flavors. Use medium-low flame and roast until the ingredients are crisp and aromatic. Make sure to keep an eye on them, as burning can compromise the taste. -
Cool the Ingredients:
Once the ingredients are roasted to perfection, remove them from the heat and allow them to cool to room temperature. This ensures that they won’t release moisture when grinding. -
Grind the Powder:
Once cooled, transfer the roasted ingredients to a mixer grinder. Add a pinch of salt to the mixture and grind everything to a smooth, fine powder. You may need to pulse the grinder a few times to achieve a uniform consistency. -
Storage and Usage:
After grinding, the Menthe Hittu powder is ready to use! Store it in an airtight container to preserve its flavors. This chutney powder can last up to 6 months if stored properly. -
Serving Suggestions:
This chutney powder tastes best when served with plain hot rice, but it also pairs wonderfully with chapatis, dosas, or even sprinkled over vegetables and snacks. You can use it as a side dish or a flavorful accompaniment to any meal.
Tips for Best Results:
- Roasting each ingredient separately ensures even roasting and prevents burning. Be patient during this step for the best results.
- Adjust the quantity of dry red chillies depending on your preferred spice level.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can grind the powder for a few more minutes to achieve a finer consistency.
Why You Should Try Menthe Hittu:
This traditional Indian chutney powder is an aromatic and nutrient-packed addition to your meals. With the health benefits of fenugreek seeds, dals, and other spices, it provides a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and antioxidants. Not only does it bring a burst of flavor to your dishes, but it’s also versatile and can be paired with a variety of foods. Perfect for anyone looking to spice up their meals in a healthy and delicious way!
Now that you have the recipe for Menthe Hittu (Roasted Fenugreek Chutney Powder), it’s time to prepare and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this traditional Indian condiment. Whether you serve it with rice or your favorite Indian breads, it’s bound to be a hit at your dining table!
