Capsicum Thokku Recipe – A Flavorful South Indian Side Dish
Introduction
Capsicum Thokku, also known as Capsicum Chutney, is an incredibly versatile and flavorful side dish that originates from South Indian cuisine. The rich and spicy chutney made from green bell peppers (capsicum), tangy amla (gooseberry), and aromatic spices is perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes. Whether served with steamed rice, Indian bread like roti or paratha, or even as a topping for snacks, this thokku will undoubtedly enhance your meal with its vibrant and bold flavor.
This Capsicum Thokku stands out for several reasons: it requires no water, which helps it last for up to 3-4 days without refrigeration. This makes it an ideal choice for travel or when you’re looking for a side dish that can stay fresh and flavorful for several days. The combination of tamarind, amla, and roasted spices gives it a unique tangy and savory taste that pairs beautifully with a wide range of Indian dishes.
Ingredients for Capsicum Thokku
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 4 medium-sized |
| Amla (Nellikai/Gooseberry) | 1 |
| Tamarind Paste | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| To Roast and Powder (Masala) | |
| Coriander (Dhania) Seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 tablespoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 6-10 pieces |
| For Tempering | |
| Oil | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Curry Leaves | A few leaves |
Allergen Information
Capsicum Thokku is naturally gluten-free and vegan. However, if you are allergic to mustard seeds or fenugreek seeds, you should avoid this recipe or substitute those ingredients with alternatives. Always ensure that the ingredients are checked for any cross-contamination or allergens if you have sensitivities.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free
- Vegan
- No Added Sugar
This dish is a great option for anyone following vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets. It is packed with the goodness of fresh vegetables and spices, offering a nutritious and flavorful accompaniment to your meals.
Preparation Instructions
-
Prepare the Capsicum:
Begin by thoroughly washing and roughly chopping the green bell peppers (capsicum). Use a mixer or food processor to grind the chopped capsicum into a coarse texture. Set the mixture aside for later use. -
Roast the Spices:
Heat a small pan over low-medium heat and add a few drops of oil. To the pan, add the coriander seeds, methi seeds, chana dal, and dry red chillies. Roast the mixture until the spices become crisp and aromatic. Once done, transfer the roasted spices to a mixer and grind them into a fine powder. This will serve as the key spice blend for the thokku. -
Tempering:
In a kadai (Indian wok or deep pan), heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Immediately add the curry leaves and a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for an aromatic base. Stir for a few seconds until the flavors are well-infused. -
Cooking the Thokku:
Now, add the coarsely ground capsicum to the tempering. Follow it with the tamarind paste and salt. Mix everything well, ensuring the tamarind and salt are evenly distributed. Add the freshly ground spice powder to the mixture and stir it thoroughly. -
Simmering:
Allow the Capsicum Thokku to simmer for about 5-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, and allow the chutney to cook and absorb the flavors. The thokku should cook without the need for additional water. This method helps retain the thick, concentrated flavors of the capsicum and spices. -
Final Touches:
Once the chutney has cooked down and developed a rich color and flavor, remove it from the heat. The Capsicum Thokku is now ready to be served.
Serving Suggestions
Capsicum Thokku can be paired with a variety of dishes. It is excellent as a condiment with hot steamed rice, ideally topped with a dollop of ghee for extra richness. You can also serve it alongside Indian flatbreads like roti, paratha, or dosa. Additionally, it can be enjoyed as a dip with crispy snacks or fritters, enhancing their flavor with its tangy and spicy kick.
Tips for Storing
Since this thokku contains no added water, it remains fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can refrigerate the chutney for up to a week. If you’d like to make a larger batch, you can preserve it in the refrigerator for extended use.
Conclusion
Capsicum Thokku is a flavorful, easy-to-make South Indian chutney that combines the mild bitterness of capsicum with the zing of tamarind and the warmth of roasted spices. This versatile dish can complement a variety of Indian meals and serves as a perfect travel-friendly side dish. Enjoy the rich taste and texture of this Capsicum Thokku with your favorite rice or bread, and add a touch of authentic South Indian flavor to your everyday meals.
