Mysore Chutney Recipe – Chana Dal Chutney
Welcome to the vibrant culinary world of Karnataka, where the Mysore Chutney, also known as Chana Dal Chutney, reigns supreme as a delectable accompaniment to various South Indian delicacies. This rich and flavorful chutney, with its nutty essence from the chana dal and a kick from the dry red chillies, is perfect for pairing with soft idli, crispy masala dosa, or even as a unique spread for your sandwiches. Let’s embark on a cooking adventure to create this delightful dish that showcases the authentic flavors of South Indian cuisine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sunflower Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1/2 cup |
| Dry Red Chillies (broken) | 5 pieces |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | As required |
| Dessicated Coconut | 1 teaspoon |
| Tamarind | 20 grams |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Ginger (chopped) | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Total Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings
- Yield: 4 servings
Course
- Cuisine: Karnataka
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Course: Side Dish
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by soaking the dry red chillies in warm water for about half an hour to soften them. Meanwhile, soak the tamarind in a small amount of water to extract its pulp. -
-
Roast the Chana Dal:
Heat sunflower oil in a wide pan over low to medium heat. Add the chana dal and roast it gently, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and fragrant. This step is crucial as it enhances the nutty flavor of the dal. Once roasted, set the chana dal aside to cool completely. -
Grind the Mixture:
Once the chana dal has cooled, transfer it to a blender. Add the soaked and drained dry red chillies, tamarind pulp, salt, dessicated coconut, curry leaves, and chopped ginger. Pour in just enough water to help blend the ingredients smoothly. Blend the mixture until it reaches a coarse paste consistency. Adjust the water quantity as needed to achieve your desired texture. -
Serve the Chutney:
Transfer the Mysore chutney to a serving bowl. It can be enjoyed immediately or refrigerated for a short while to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Pairing Suggestions:
Serve your delectable Mysore Chutney alongside homemade soft idli or crispy masala dosa. For a truly authentic experience, complement it with a cup of South Indian filter coffee, allowing the rich flavors to enhance your meal.
Tips for Best Results
- Soaking Time: Soaking the dry red chillies is essential for making the chutney smoother, so don’t skip this step.
- Storage: This chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a great make-ahead option for your meals.
- Serving Temperature: While this chutney is delicious at room temperature, you can also serve it slightly warmed for a comforting experience.
With its delightful blend of spices and textures, Mysore Chutney is a must-try recipe that reflects the essence of Karnataka’s culinary heritage. Enjoy this unique chutney as a side dish at your next gathering, or simply relish it during a quiet meal at home, bringing a taste of South India right to your table!
