Spiced Prune Chutney: A Flavorful Indian Delight
Spiced Prune Chutney is a rich and tangy concoction, combining the natural sweetness of prunes with a blend of warm, aromatic spices. This chutney serves as an incredibly versatile accompaniment for various dishes, adding a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and acidity. Whether paired with Indian breakfast favorites like dosa or stuffed paratha, or used as a spread in sandwiches and wraps, this chutney enhances every bite with its deep, complex flavor. It’s a great way to preserve prunes while creating a delightful, homemade condiment that can be enjoyed year-round.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Prunes | 1 cup |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1 medium-sized |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Ajwain (Carom seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Flakes | 4 tablespoons |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Servings:
4-6 servings
Cuisine:
Indian
Course:
Side Dish
Diet:
Vegetarian
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 85 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Fat: 0.2 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 19 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
Instructions:
-
Prepare the ingredients: Begin by heating a flat skillet or pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan.
-
Saute the spices and onion: Once the oil is hot, add the ajwain (carom seeds) and allow them to crackle for a few seconds. Then, add the chopped onion and sauté until the onions become soft and translucent.
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Add tomatoes and spices: Next, incorporate the finely chopped tomato, followed by the cinnamon powder (dalchini), nutmeg powder, and red chili flakes into the pan. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Let this cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the tomatoes soften and break down into a thick paste.
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Mash and simmer: Once the tomato mixture is cooked, gently mash it with the back of a spoon to break down the ingredients. Add about ½ cup of water and allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens.
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Add prunes: Stir in the prunes, followed by the honey and vinegar. Allow everything to cook together for another 10 minutes on a low simmer, so the prunes soften and infuse the chutney with their natural sweetness.
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Blend the chutney: Once the chutney has thickened and cooled slightly, transfer it to a blender and blitz it to a coarse paste. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend it further until you reach your desired consistency.
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Cool and serve: Let the Spiced Prune Chutney cool completely before serving. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Serving Suggestions:
This chutney is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with Cabbage Paneer Paratha or Stuffed Paratha, adding a burst of flavor to these hearty dishes. Alternatively, spread it on your favorite sandwich or wrap to bring a delightful tang and sweetness to every bite. It can also be served alongside Indian breakfast dishes like dosa for a truly authentic experience.
Tips:
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier chutney, you can increase the quantity of red chili flakes to suit your taste. Alternatively, reduce the amount for a milder version.
- Add a twist: To enhance the flavor, feel free to add a pinch of black salt or a squeeze of lemon juice to the chutney after blending for an extra zing.
- Use different dried fruits: Although prunes are the star of this chutney, feel free to experiment with dried apricots or raisins to add variety to the chutney.
With its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes, Spiced Prune Chutney is a must-try condiment that will bring a burst of flavor to all your meals!
