Sweet and Spicy Tomato Chutney – A Flavorful Gujarati Side Dish

Sweet and Spicy Tomato Chutney Recipe

Cuisine: Gujarati
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Instructions

1. Heat the Oil
   In a medium-sized skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of sunflower oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds and 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds. Let them crackle and pop for a few seconds, releasing their aromatic flavors.

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2. Add the Aromatics
   Next, stir in 1/4 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing) and 4 finely chopped curry leaves. Continue to sauté for another 30 seconds until the leaves begin to crisp slightly, and the spices release their fragrance.

3. Cook the Tomatoes
   Add the finely chopped tomatoes (2-1/2 cups) to the skillet. Stir in the 2 finely chopped green chillies, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder (haldi), and 1/2 teaspoon of red chilli powder. Mix well to combine the spices and tomatoes.

4. Simmer the Chutney
   Add 1 teaspoon of sugar to the mixture, and stir again. Cover the pan and let the chutney simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will break down, soften, and release their juices, creating a thick, flavorful chutney.

5. Season and Adjust
   After the tomatoes have softened and the chutney has thickened, taste and adjust the seasoning. Add salt to taste and stir to combine. If you prefer a slightly sweeter chutney, you can add more sugar at this stage.

6. Finish and Serve
   Once the chutney has reached your desired consistency, turn off the heat. Allow it to cool to room temperature before serving. The chutney will thicken slightly as it cools.

7. Serving Suggestions
   Serve the Sweet and Spicy Tomato Chutney as a side dish with your favorite meals. It pairs wonderfully with Moong Dal Chillas for a hearty breakfast or as a topping for rice, parathas, or dosa. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables, sandwiches, or wraps for a burst of flavor.

Tips and Variations

• Make It Spicier: For an extra kick, increase the amount of green chillies or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Sweetness Adjustments: Depending on the ripeness of your tomatoes and personal taste, you can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your preference.
• Storage: This chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also makes a great gift for friends and family when jarred properly.
• Vegan Version: This recipe is naturally vegan, but you can substitute the sunflower oil with any neutral oil of your choice, such as coconut or vegetable oil.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Spicy Tomato Chutney

This Sweet and Spicy Tomato Chutney recipe combines the tanginess of fresh tomatoes with the bold flavors of mustard seeds, cumin, curry leaves, and a touch of sweetness from sugar. The addition of spices like turmeric, ginger, and green chillies creates a wonderfully balanced chutney that enhances any meal. Perfect for those who love a touch of spice, this chutney is versatile, easy to make, and adds a burst of flavor to your dishes.

Whether you’re preparing a traditional Gujarati meal or simply looking for a unique condiment, this chutney is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy it fresh, store it for later, or use it as a dip to complement a variety of dishes!