Tomato Chutney Recipe: A Simple & Delicious Tomato Pachadi
Tomato chutney, also known as tomato pachadi in some regions, is a flavorful and tangy dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving it with rice, dosa, or even a sandwich, this chutney is sure to impress your taste buds. In this blog, we’ll dive into how to make tomato chutney, discuss its variations, and provide a step-by-step tomato chutney recipe that’s easy to follow.
If you’re looking for a tomato chutney recipe that combines spicy, sour, and savory elements, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe will walk you through every detail needed to create a delicious batch of tamatar ki chutney. Get ready for a burst of flavors with every bite!
What is Tomato Chutney (Tomato Pachadi)?
Tomato chutney, or tomato pachadi, is a popular condiment made from ripe tomatoes, green chilies, dry red chilies, and tamarind. It is often used as a side dish or accompaniment with rice, dosa, idli, or paratha. The chutney combines the tartness of tomatoes with the heat of chilies and the tang of tamarind, making it a perfect balance of spicy and sour flavors.
In this article, we will share a simple and easy-to-make tomato chutney recipe that can be prepared in just under 10 minutes. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe will be easy to follow and yield delicious results.
Ingredients for Tomato Chutney (Tomato Pachadi)
To make this tomato chutney for dosa or rice, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
– 6 medium-sized tomatoes – Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
– 10 green chilies – You can adjust the number of green chilies based on your spice tolerance.
– 10 dry red chilies – Adds a smoky, deep flavor.
– 1 small garlic clove – Adds a hint of earthiness to the chutney.
– 1 small lemon-sized tamarind – This will give the chutney its tangy flavor.
– 1 onion – Adds sweetness and texture to the chutney. You can use 2 onions if you prefer a stronger onion flavor.
Spices:
– 2 teaspoons of coriander seeds – Adds a citrusy, warm flavor.
– 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds – Complement the coriander with its earthy undertones.
– A pinch of fenugreek seeds – A little goes a long way in enhancing the flavor.
– Salt to taste – Essential to bring out the flavors.
Oil:
– Oil for tempering – Use 2 teaspoons of oil for tempering the spices.
How to Make Tomato Chutney: Step-by-Step Recipe
Making tomato chutney at home is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps to prepare a flavorful chutney in just 10 minutes.
Step 1: Prepare Tamarind and Spices
First, soak the tamarind in warm water for a few minutes. This will soften it, making it easier to extract the juice later.
While the tamarind is soaking, dry roast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and fenugreek seeds in a small pan over low heat. Once they are roasted, let them cool down a bit before grinding them into a coarse powder. If you don’t have a grinder, you can use a mortar and pestle to crush them manually.
Step 2: Temper the Spices
In a medium-sized frying pan, heat 2 teaspoons of oil on low heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and fenugreek seeds. Also, add 2 green chilies (broken into pieces) to the pan. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to release their fragrant aroma.
This process of tempering spices brings out their full flavor and makes the chutney more aromatic.
Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes
Next, add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and stir to combine with the tempered spices. Let the tomatoes cook on low flame for about 5-7 minutes. During this time, the tomatoes will release their juices and soften.
While the tomatoes are cooking, add salt to taste. You can adjust the amount of salt based on your preference.
Step 4: Add Tamarind and Green Chilies
After the tomatoes have softened, add the soaked tamarind to the pan. Mix it well with the cooked tomatoes, allowing the tangy tamarind flavor to infuse into the chutney. If the chutney seems too thick, you can add a little water to achieve your desired consistency.
Next, add the remaining 8 green chilies (if you like a spicier chutney) and 1 garlic clove (crushed or chopped). Stir it all together.
Step 5: Let it Simmer and Cool
Let the chutney simmer on low heat for a few more minutes until all the ingredients are well combined and the flavors are nicely melded. Turn off the heat and allow the chutney to cool down to room temperature.
Step 6: Blend the Chutney
Once the chutney has cooled, you can either use a hand blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Add a little water if necessary to adjust the texture.
If you prefer a chunky texture, feel free to skip the blending step.
Step 7: Add the Chopped Onions
Finely chop the onion and add it to the chutney. Mix well, and your tomato chutney recipe is ready to serve
Serving Suggestions for Tomato Chutney
This tomato pachadi or tamatar ki chutney goes wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some popular serving ideas:
– With Rice: The tangy and spicy flavors of tomato chutney complement plain rice or even curd rice perfectly.
– With Dosa or Idli: Tomato chutney is a classic accompaniment for South Indian breakfast dishes like dosa, idli, and vada.
– With Paratha or Roti: Spread the chutney on paratha or roti for an added burst of flavor.
– As a Side Dish: You can also serve it as a side dish with grilled vegetables, sandwiches, or burgers.
Tips and Variations for Tomato Chutney
1. Adjust the Spice Level: You can always adjust the spice level based on your preference. If you like it milder, reduce the number of green chilies and dry red chilies.
2. Sweeten it Slightly: If you prefer a sweeter chutney, you can add a teaspoon of sugar or jaggery while cooking the tomatoes.
3. Add Fresh Herbs: To add a fresh flavor to the chutney, garnish it with freshly chopped coriander or mint leaves.
4. Make it Smoky: If you like a smoky flavor, you can roast the tomatoes on an open flame before adding them to the chutney.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Chutney
1. Can I store tomato chutney for later use?
Yes, tomato chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it in portions.
2. How can I make the chutney spicier?
If you love spicy food, you can add more green chilies or dry red chilies. You can also add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
3. Can I make this chutney without tamarind?
If you don’t have tamarind, you can substitute it with a small amount of lemon juice or vinegar to add the tangy flavor.
Conclusion: Try This Tasty Tomato Chutney Today
This easy tomato chutney recipe is a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you are serving it with rice, dosa, or even using it as a dip, this chutney will definitely enhance the flavors of your dishes. With its balanced spicy, sour, and savory profile, tomato pachadi is a versatile condiment that everyone will love.
The best part is that it takes just 10 minutes to prepare! So, why not give it a try today? Tomato chutney is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to add a flavorful twist to their meals.
Don’t forget to experiment with the spice levels and ingredients to make it your own. Happy cooking.
