Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a vibrant and flavorful addition to your meals? Look no further! This homemade onion tomato chutney recipe is the perfect solution. It's a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious condiment that elevates everything from roasted chicken to simple grilled cheese. Get ready to experience a burst of flavor with every bite! This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, making it a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 inch ginger, finely grated
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon asafoetida (hing, optional)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they start to splutter, add the asafoetida (if using), green chilies, and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Cook the onions: Add the chopped onions and sauté until they soften and turn translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add the tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer and reduce: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and the chutney has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Spice it up: Stir in the garam masala and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
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Cool and serve: Remove from heat and let the chutney cool completely. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Your delicious onion tomato chutney is ready to be enjoyed!
Cooking Tips for the Best Chutney:
- For a smoother chutney: You can blend the cooked chutney using an immersion blender or regular blender for a smoother consistency.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder to your liking.
- Add more flavor: Experiment with other spices like coriander powder or curry leaves for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store the chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Sweet and tangy chutney: Add a tablespoon or two of tamarind paste for a tangier flavor.
- Mango chutney: Add 1 cup of chopped ripe mango along with the tomatoes for a sweet and savory twist.
- Spicy chutney: Add a few finely chopped serrano peppers for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 100-150 calories
- Fat: Approximately 5-7 grams
- Protein: Approximately 2-3 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 3-4 grams
This onion tomato chutney is a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. Serve it as a side dish, use it as a sandwich spread, or add it to your favorite curries. Enjoy this easy recipe, perfect for those busy weeknights seeking delicious dishes without sacrificing taste or health. It's a surefire way to elevate your culinary skills and impress your family and friends with your homemade cooking.