Gurellu Chutney Podi: A Flavorful North Karnataka Side Dish
Introduction
Gurellu Chutney Podi, also known as Kala Jeera Chutney Powder, is a beloved condiment from North Karnataka, cherished for its distinct flavors. This chutney powder is often enjoyed with steaming rice and a side of mixed vegetable sambar, making for a delicious and comforting meal. With a balanced blend of spices, roasted peanuts, and the earthy taste of kala jeera (black cumin), this chutney powder packs a punch without being overwhelming. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be stored for months, bringing a burst of flavor whenever you need it.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 10
Cuisine: North Karnataka
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kala jeera (Black cumin) | 1 cup |
| Raw peanuts (Moongphali) | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic cloves (peeled) | 8 cloves |
| Dry red chilies | 8 whole |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 10 leaves |
| Tamarind | Size of a lemon |
| Sunflower oil | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sodium | 20 mg |
Instructions
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Roast the Peanuts: Begin by dry roasting the raw peanuts in a kadai or microwave until the skin peels off or brown spots appear. This step helps to release the nutty aroma and adds richness to the chutney. Once roasted, set the peanuts aside to cool.
-
Roast Kala Jeera: In the same kadai, dry roast the kala jeera (black cumin) seeds on a low flame. You’ll notice they start to crackle—this is the sign they’re ready. Once roasted, set them aside to cool.
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Roast the Garlic: In the same pan, roast the garlic cloves until their raw smell disappears and they turn slightly golden. This will mellow the flavor of the garlic, making it more aromatic and delicious. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Prepare the Spice Mix: Add a teaspoon of sunflower oil to the frying pan. Keep the flame low to avoid burning the spices. Start by roasting the dry red chilies and tamarind, stirring occasionally to ensure even roasting. When the chilies are crisp and the tamarind softens, add the curry leaves. Continue roasting until the curry leaves become crisp, and all the ingredients are roasted perfectly. Transfer this spice mixture to a plate and allow it to cool down.
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Grind to a Coarse Powder: Once all the ingredients have cooled to room temperature, transfer them to a mixer jar. Add a pinch of salt, and grind everything into a medium-coarse powder. Be careful not to make the powder too fine—keeping it coarse ensures a good texture when mixed with rice.
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Store and Serve: Your Gurellu Chutney Podi is now ready to serve! Transfer it to an airtight container, and if stored properly, it can last for months without losing its flavor.
Serving Suggestion: Serve Gurellu Chutney Podi alongside steaming hot rice and a bowl of mixed vegetable sambar. The chutney powder enhances the flavor of rice, adding a zingy, spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the richness of sambar.
Tips for Making the Best Gurellu Chutney Podi
- Roasting Temperature: Ensure you roast each ingredient on a low flame to prevent burning, which could alter the flavor of the chutney.
- Storage: For longer shelf life, store the chutney powder in an airtight glass jar. Keeping it in a cool, dry place will help preserve its freshness.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of red chilies or red chili powder based on your spice preference. If you prefer a milder chutney, reduce the amount of red chili powder or remove a couple of the dry red chilies.
- Additions: You can experiment by adding a few sesame seeds or cumin seeds to the mix for a different flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love Gurellu Chutney Podi
This chutney powder is a perfect side dish for those who love bold, earthy flavors with a bit of heat. It’s not just for rice—try adding a spoonful of this chutney powder to plain yogurt or sprinkle it over roasted vegetables for a tasty snack. Gurellu Chutney Podi is simple yet versatile, and it brings a taste of North Karnataka to your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weekday meal or as part of a more elaborate spread, this chutney powder will never fail to impress.
Enjoy your Gurellu Chutney Podi and indulge in the vibrant, spicy flavors of Karnataka!
