Cilantro Chutney Recipe
Overview:
Cilantro chutney is a vibrant and zesty condiment that adds a burst of fresh flavor to a variety of dishes. This recipe from Love with Recipes combines the bright notes of cilantro with the creamy texture of yogurt, complemented by hints of coconut, ginger, and citrusy lime. It’s quick to prepare, requiring no cooking, making it a perfect choice for busy days or when you need a refreshing accompaniment to spicy Asian cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cilantro leaves and stalks, coarsely chopped
- 2 cups fresh coconut, grated
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1 cup plain yogurt, thick
- 10 cumin seeds, toasted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 63.7
- Fat: 2.8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.7g
- Cholesterol: 6.6mg
- Sodium: 33.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 8.1g
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 2.8g
Directions:
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Prepare Ingredients:
- Start by chopping the cilantro leaves and stalks coarsely. Grate the fresh coconut and ginger finely.
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Process the Chutney:
- In a food processor, combine the chopped cilantro, grated coconut, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and the zest and juice of the lime.
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Blend Until Smooth:
- Process the mixture until you achieve a smooth, uniform green paste. This may take a few minutes, depending on the power of your food processor.
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Incorporate Yogurt and Cumin:
- Once the mixture is smooth, stir in the thick plain yogurt and toasted cumin seeds. The yogurt adds a creamy texture while the cumin seeds provide a warm, earthy flavor.
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Season to Taste:
- Season the chutney with salt and pepper according to your preference. Adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors of the herbs and spices.
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Chill Before Serving:
- Transfer the cilantro chutney to a container with a lid and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste of the chutney.
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Serving Suggestion:
- Serve the cilantro chutney chilled alongside spicy Asian dishes like curry. Its fresh, tangy flavor will complement the heat and richness of the main dish, creating a well-rounded meal experience.
Tips for Success:
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cilantro and coconut for the best flavor. The quality of these ingredients greatly impacts the taste of the chutney.
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Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can adjust by adding a small amount of water or more yogurt during blending.
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Storage: Store any leftover chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for a few days, allowing you to enjoy it with multiple meals.
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Versatility: This cilantro chutney is not only great with Asian dishes but can also be used as a dip, spread, or dressing for salads. Get creative and explore different ways to incorporate it into your meals.
Nutritional Benefits:
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Low Cholesterol: This recipe is heart-friendly, containing no cholesterol and minimal saturated fat.
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Healthy Ingredients: Cilantro and ginger are known for their health benefits, including antioxidant properties and digestive support.
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Balanced Nutrition: With a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, this chutney can be part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion:
Enjoy the bright flavors and health benefits of this homemade cilantro chutney. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or simply adding zest to everyday meals, this recipe is sure to impress with its freshness and versatility. Visit Love with Recipes for more culinary inspiration and discover new ways to elevate your cooking with delicious and nutritious recipes.