Ginger Walnut Chutney: A Tangy, Spicy Indian Delight
Ginger Walnut Chutney is a deliciously unique blend of flavors that combines the warmth and zing of ginger with the rich crunch of roasted walnuts. This chutney offers a perfect balance of tangy and spicy notes, making it an ideal accompaniment to a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re enjoying it with soft Idlis, crispy Dosas, savory Dhoklas, or simply spreading it over bread or a roll, this chutney elevates your meal with its bold, aromatic taste. You can even mix it with steaming hot rice to create a delightful chutney rice. Its versatility and flavor-packed profile make it a must-have side dish in Indian cuisine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 200 grams |
| Walnuts (roasted) | 50 grams |
| Coriander (Dhania) Seeds | 2 tablespoons |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 2 tablespoons |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 2 tablespoons |
| Tamarind | 2-inch piece |
| Jaggery | 1/4 cup |
| Curry Leaves | 10 leaves |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Instructions
-
Roast the Spices and Ingredients:
Begin by dry roasting the coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds, cumin seeds, and black peppercorns in a hot pan. Make sure to keep the flame on low to medium heat to prevent them from burning. Once roasted, set these ingredients aside to cool. -
-
Prepare Walnuts:
Roast the walnuts in a dry pan until slightly golden brown. Itβs essential to use fresh walnuts to avoid any bitter taste, which can affect the chutney’s flavor. -
Blend the Ingredients:
Once the roasted spices and walnuts have cooled, place them in a blender along with the finely chopped ginger, tamarind, jaggery, curry leaves, and asafoetida (hing). Add a pinch of salt and blend everything into a smooth paste. Add water if necessary to reach your desired chutney consistency. -
Adjust the Taste:
After blending, taste the chutney and adjust the salt as needed. If you prefer a spicier chutney, feel free to add a bit more black pepper or ginger. -
Serve:
The Ginger Walnut Chutney is now ready to be served. Enjoy it as an accompaniment to your favorite South Indian dishes such as Idlis, Dosas, or Dhoklas. Alternatively, spread it on bread, rolls, or mix it with hot steamed rice for a tangy, spicy treat.
Allergen Information:
- Walnuts: Contains tree nuts. Not suitable for individuals with nut allergies.
- Tamarind: May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Cumin Seeds, Fenugreek Seeds, Coriander Seeds, Asafoetida: Safe for most individuals unless specific sensitivities exist.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This chutney is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: The ingredients used in this chutney are naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those on a gluten-free diet.
- Nut-Free: For those with a walnut allergy, this chutney may not be safe. Substituting walnuts with another seed, like sunflower seeds, could be an option, but it will alter the flavor profile.
Pro Tip:
For an added burst of flavor, experiment with different sweeteners like coconut sugar or palm sugar in place of jaggery. You can also play with the heat level by adding fresh green chilies or red chili powder for a spicier kick. This chutney also stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy its rich flavors for days.
Conclusion
Ginger Walnut Chutney is a mouthwatering condiment that embodies the essence of Indian flavors. With its spicy, tangy, and sweet notes, it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from traditional South Indian breakfast items to simple meals like rice or bread. By roasting and blending the ingredients, you unlock the full depth of flavor, creating a chutney that not only complements but enhances the dish it’s served with. Give this simple yet flavorful chutney a try, and elevate your next meal with a touch of Indian spice and richness.
