Peanut Chutney is a delightful and versatile Indian condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Made from roasted peanuts blended with spices, tamarind, and green chilies, this chutney is both spicy and tangy.
It's a popular accompaniment in South Indian cuisine, known for its smooth texture and robust taste. Whether you're looking to spice up a breakfast of idli and dosa or seeking a tasty dip for snacks, peanut chutney offers a quick and easy solution that packs a lot of flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of Peanut Chutney lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it brings to the table. The roasted peanuts provide a creamy base with a rich, nutty undertone that pairs beautifully with the sharp bite of green chilies and the tangy kick of tamarind. These primary ingredients merge to create a chutney that's irresistibly savory with just the right amount of heat and sourness. Moreover, this chutney is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to taste, making it a fantastic addition to a variety of dishes.
Additionally, this recipe is incredibly practical for everyday cooking. It requires minimal ingredients, most of which are staples in an Indian kitchen, and it comes together in about 15 minutes. This makes it perfect for busy days when you want to add a quick but flavorful touch to your meals. Whether you're new to Indian cooking or a seasoned pro, this peanut chutney recipe is straightforward, fuss-free, and almost impossible to get wrong. It's a great way to bring a traditional Indian flavor to your table with little effort.
Ingredients
Peanuts - The primary ingredient, providing a rich, nutty flavor. Substitute: Almonds or cashews for a different nutty taste.
Tamarind - Adds a tangy depth to the chutney. Substitute: Lemon juice for a simpler tang.
Green Chilies - Brings a spicy kick. Substitute: Jalapeños for a milder heat.
Garlic - Enhances the chutney with a pungent aroma. Substitute: Ginger for a more earthy note.
Cumin Seeds - Gives an earthy spice that complements the peanuts. Substitute: Fennel seeds for a sweeter aroma.
Tips
- Roast the peanuts lightly to enhance their flavor.
- Adjust the quantity of green chilies to suit your spice preference.
- Ensure the tamarind is seedless before using to avoid bitterness.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Store the chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
How to Serve
Peanut chutney is a versatile condiment that can elevate many dishes with its rich, nutty, and spicy flavors. It's traditionally served with South Indian breakfast items like idli, dosa, and upma. The creamy texture and robust taste make it a perfect side to complement the mild flavors of these dishes.
- As a spread on whole wheat sandwiches for a flavorful lunch.
- Mixed into plain yogurt to create a spicy dip for vegetables or chips.
- As a dressing for a hearty salad, adding a flavorful twist to a simple meal.
Similar Recipes
Peanut Chutney
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanuts unsalted
- 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
- 2-3 green chilies as per taste
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- Water for grinding
- 1 tablespoon oil
- ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
- A few curry leaves
- A pinch of asafoetida hing
Instructions
- Dry roast the peanuts in a pan until golden brown. Let them cool.
- In a blender, combine the roasted peanuts, tamarind paste, green chilies, garlic, cumin seeds, and salt. Add a little water and blend to a smooth paste.
- Heat oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add curry leaves and asafoetida, and sauté for a few seconds.
- Pour this tempering over the blended peanut mixture and mix well.
- Serve the chutney fresh or store in the refrigerator for later use.
Nutrition
Notes
• Adjust the quantity of green chilies to suit your spice preference.
• Ensure the tamarind is seedless before using to avoid bitterness.
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Store the chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.