Are you looking for a quick and easy recipe to elevate your everyday meals? Look no further! This Dates Imli Chutney is a burst of sweet and tangy flavor that's perfect as a condiment for snacks, chaat, or even as a delicious addition to your favorite curries. It’s a simple recipe that showcases the magic of homemade cooking, resulting in a chutney far superior to store-bought versions. This healthy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped (Medjool dates are recommended)
- ½ cup tamarind pulp (adjust to your preferred level of tartness)
- 2 tablespoons jaggery or brown sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 tablespoon roasted chana dal (split chickpeas)
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons water (or more, as needed)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1-2 dry red chilies, broken
- A few curry leaves (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the base: In a blender, combine the chopped dates, tamarind pulp, jaggery, roasted chana dal, red chili powder, turmeric powder, asafoetida, and salt. Add water and blend until you achieve a smooth paste. The consistency should be thick, but still blendable. Add more water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
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Tempering the spices: Heat oil in a small pan over medium heat. Once hot, add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add cumin seeds and dry red chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. If using, add curry leaves and sauté briefly.
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Combine and simmer: Pour the tempered spices into the date-tamarind paste. Mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chutney thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
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Taste and adjust: Taste the chutney and adjust the sweetness, salt, and spice levels according to your preference.
Tips and Variations:
- For a smoother chutney: Strain the chutney through a fine-mesh sieve after blending for an exceptionally smooth texture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of garam masala or a green chili for an extra kick.
- Sweet and sour balance: Adjust the amount of tamarind pulp and jaggery to achieve your desired balance of sweet and sour flavors. Experiment to find your perfect combination!
- Storage: Store the chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on ingredients used)
- Protein: Around 3-4 grams
- Carbohydrates: Around 35-40 grams
- Fat: Around 5-7 grams
This delicious and easy Dates Imli Chutney is a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. It’s a simple yet flavorful condiment that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this healthy and delicious homemade dish, perfect for adding a unique zing to your meals! This quick dinner idea is a lifesaver for busy evenings and always a crowd-pleaser. Try this best recipe and let us know your thoughts!