Mint Chutney | Pudina Chutney

Who doesn’t love a tangy, zesty kick to their meals? Mint chutney is the perfect accompaniment that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you’re dipping samosas, spreading it on sandwiches, or pairing it with your favorite curry, this versatile condiment is a must-have in any kitchen. Plus, making it at home is a breeze!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh mint leaves, washed
• 1 cup fresh coriander leaves, washed
• 2-3 green chilies (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fried fine sev(optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• 4-5 ice cubes
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Recipe Instructions

• Start by gathering all your ingredients.

• In a blender or food processor, add the ice cubes, mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger, garlic, lemon juice, cumin powder, salt, black salt, fried fine sev, and sugar.

• Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender occasionally to ensure everything gets mixed well.

• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, sugar, or lemon juice according to your preference.

• Once you’re satisfied with the taste and consistency, transfer the chutney to a clean, airtight jar.

• Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips and Tricks

• Do not skip the ice cubes. Using ice cubes during blending helps keep the chutney cold, preventing it from heating up, and resulting in a vibrant green-colored chutney

• For a smoother texture, you can strain the chutney through a fine mesh sieve.

• If you prefer a milder chutney, remove the seeds from the green chilies before blending.

• Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best taste.

• To extend the shelf life of your mint chutney, you can freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for easy portioning. This way, you can thaw only as much as you need without worrying about the rest going to waste.

• Experiment with adding different ingredients to customize your chutney. Some popular additions include roasted peanuts, coconut, or even a splash of yogurt for a creamy variation.

Serving Suggestions

• Dip for Appetizers: Serve alongside samosas, pakoras, bhajis for a delicious dipping sauce. The cool, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the crispy, savory snacks.

• Spread for Sandwiches: Use it as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or rolls. It adds a burst of freshness and flavor to any sandwich, whether it’s a veggie wrap or a classic grilled cheese.

• Condiment for Indian Dishes: Pair it with your favorite Indian dishes such as tandoori chicken, kebabs, or biryani. The refreshing minty taste complements the spices and richness of these dishes wonderfully.

• Accompaniment for Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled meats like lamb chops, chicken tikka, or fish tikka. The mint chutney provides a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of the grilled meats.

• Drizzle for Salads: Use it as a dressing for salads or drizzle over roasted vegetables. It adds a zesty kick to salads and helps elevate the flavors of roasted veggies.

• Marinade for BBQ: Mix it with yogurt to create a marinade for BBQ dishes like skewers or kebabs. The combination of mint and yogurt tenderizes the meat while adding a delicious flavor.

• Accompaniment for Chaat: Use it as a topping for chaat dishes like papdi chaat, sev puri, or dahi puri. The tangy, spicy chutney adds a burst of flavor to these savory snacks.

These serving suggestions will help you make the most out of your homemade mint chutney and elevate your meals to the next level!

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze mint chutney?

A: While you can freeze mint chutney, it may lose some of its fresh flavor and vibrant color. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for short-term use.

Q: Can I substitute dried herbs for fresh ones?

A: Fresh herbs are essential for the bright, aromatic flavor of mint chutney. While you can use dried herbs in a pinch, the taste won’t be the same.

Q: Can I adjust the spiciness of the chutney?

A: Absolutely! You can control the heat level by adjusting the number of green chilies you use. For a milder chutney, reduce the amount of chilies or remove the seeds before blending.

Q: Is mint chutney vegan-friendly?

A: Yes, mint chutney is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. It’s a great option for vegans and vegetarians alike to add flavor to their meals.

Homemade mint chutney is a simple yet incredibly flavorful addition to any meal. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can whip up a batch of this delicious condiment to elevate your dishes. So, next time you’re craving something tangy and refreshing, reach for a jar of homemade mint chutney!