Amla Thogayal Recipe: A Tangy South Indian Side Dish
Amla Thogayal, a classic South Indian side dish, is a flavorful blend of amla (Indian gooseberry), coconut, and aromatic spices. This tangy and mildly spiced chutney is the perfect accompaniment to your breakfast, especially when paired with ghee roast dosa and filter coffee. The richness of coconut and the sharpness of amla make it a delightful addition to any meal. Here’s how you can make this nutritious and tasty recipe.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Amla (Indian gooseberries) | 100 grams |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Fenugreek Seeds (methi) | 1/2 tsp |
| Whole Black Pepper | 1 tsp |
| Green Chili | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Amla:
Begin by cutting the amla and removing its seeds. Set the seeds aside for later use or discard them. The flesh of the amla is what will be used for the thogayal. -
-
Roasting Spices:
Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the fenugreek seeds and whole black pepper. Roast them for about 3–4 minutes until they become aromatic. Keep stirring to avoid burning. -
Roasting Coconut:
To the same pan, add the grated coconut. Continue to roast the mixture for another 2 minutes. The coconut should turn lightly golden and blend well with the spices. -
Cooling the Mixture:
Once roasted, turn off the heat and let the mixture cool down completely. Allowing it to cool will make the grinding process easier and prevent the chutney from becoming watery. -
Grinding the Thogayal:
Once cooled, transfer the roasted mixture into a mixer grinder. Add the amla, green chili, and salt. Grind the ingredients into a smooth or slightly coarse paste based on your preference. -
Storing the Thogayal:
After grinding, store the amla thogayal in an airtight container. This chutney can be refrigerated and stored for a few days. -
Serving:
Serve your fresh Amla Thogayal with ghee roast dosa and filter coffee for a traditional South Indian breakfast. The tangy and spicy chutney will enhance the flavors of your dosa beautifully.
Tips:
- Amla Varieties: Choose fresh, firm amlas for the best texture and flavor. If fresh amla is not available, you can use dried amla, but the texture and taste may slightly differ.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier chutney, add an extra green chili or a pinch of red chili powder while grinding.
- Storage: This chutney stays fresh for up to 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Amla is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting the immune system and promoting overall health. It is also known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Coconut: Coconut adds healthy fats and contributes to improved heart health.
- Fenugreek Seeds: Known for their ability to balance blood sugar and support digestion, fenugreek seeds are an excellent addition to this dish.
Conclusion:
Amla Thogayal is a delicious and healthy addition to your meal plan, especially if you’re looking to incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients into your diet. Its fresh, tangy flavor will complement any South Indian breakfast or even serve as a side dish for lunch or dinner. Easy to make, full of flavor, and brimming with health benefits, this thogayal is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves authentic South Indian cuisine.
