Master the Classic South Indian Red Garlic Chutney Recipe at Home

Master the Classic South Indian Red Garlic Chutney Recipe at Home

South Indian cuisine offers a vibrant array of flavors, and one standout condiment is the fiery red garlic chutney. This traditional recipe brings a punch of spice and aroma to your meals. Making it at home is surprisingly easy and rewarding.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This chutney pairs perfectly with idli, dosa, or vada. It adds a bold kick to any dish. Homemade versions avoid preservatives and let you control the heat level. You can adjust ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients You Will Need

• Fresh garlic cloves - about 10 to 12 pieces
• Dried red chilies - 4 to 6, depending on your spice preference
• Roasted chana dal - 2 tablespoons for texture
• Tamarind paste - a small piece for tanginess
• Salt - to taste
• Oil - 1 tablespoon for tempering
• Mustard seeds - half a teaspoon
• Curry leaves - a few sprigs for aroma

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Start by peeling the garlic cloves. Chop them roughly to help with blending.
2. Soak the dried red chilies in warm water for about 10 minutes. This softens them and makes blending smoother.
3. In a blender, combine the garlic, soaked red chilies, roasted chana dal, tamarind paste, and salt. Add a little water if needed.
4. Blend everything into a coarse paste. Do not make it too fine; some texture enhances the chutney.
5. Heat oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
6. Throw in the curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
7. Pour this tempering over the blended chutney and mix well.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Serve this red garlic chutney immediately with your favorite South Indian breakfast items. It also works as a spread for sandwiches or a dip for snacks. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer use.

Experiment with adding roasted peanuts or sesame seeds for extra flavor. Some people enjoy a hint of jaggery to balance the heat. Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking.