Discover the perfect Tamarind Chutney recipe that adds a tangy twist to your meals. Made with tangy tamarind and a blend of spices, this chutney is an ideal accompaniment to meat dishes and enhances the flavor of your favorite recipes. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it's a must-try for any chutney lover.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup tamarind pulp (soaked in warm water and strained)

- 1/2 cup jaggery or brown sugar

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder

- 1/4 teaspoon black salt

- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)

- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped ginger

- 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped green chili (optional)

- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)

Instructions:

Prepare Tamarind Pulp: If using tamarind concentrate, dilute it with 1/2 cup of water. If using tamarind pods, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes, then strain to get the pulp.

Cook Chutney Base: In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. 

Add Aromatics: Add the chopped ginger and green chili (if using) to the pan and sauté for a minute until fragrant.

Mix Tamarind Pulp: Pour the tamarind pulp into the pan and stir to combine with the aromatics.

Add Sweetener and Spices: Add jaggery (or brown sugar), ground cumin, ground coriander, red chili powder, black salt, and regular salt. Stir well to combine.

Simmer: Let the chutney simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. If it gets too thick, add a little water to adjust.

Cool and Store: Allow the chutney to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Serving Suggestion: Serve Tamarind Chutney as a tangy dip with meat dishes, grilled vegetables, or as a condiment in sandwiches and wraps. Enjoy the burst of flavor it brings to your meals!

Nutritional Values

Tamarind Pulp (1 cup, soaked in warm water and strained)

  - 75 calories

  - 0.5 grams of fat

  - 19 grams of carbohydrates

  - 2 grams of protein

Benefits: Rich in vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin A, and several B vitamins. Contains antioxidants and dietary fiber, which supports digestion and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Jaggery or Brown Sugar (1/2 cup)

  - Jaggery: About 430 calories, 0 grams of fat, 110 grams of carbohydrates (including 110 grams of sugar), 1 gram of protein.

  - Brown Sugar: About 415 calories, 0 grams of fat, 105 grams of carbohydrates (including 105 grams of sugar), 1 gram of protein.

Benefits: Jaggery contains more minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium compared to white sugar. Brown sugar provides a slightly richer taste due to its molasses content.

Ground Cumin (1/2 teaspoon)

  - 4 calories

  - 0.2 grams of protein

  - 0.2 grams of fat

  - 0.8 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits: May aid digestion and improve gut health. Contains iron and antioxidants, and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Ground Coriander(1/2 teaspoon)

  - 4 calories

  - 0.2 grams of protein

  - 0.2 grams of fat

  - 0.9 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and may help with digestion. Contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and potassium.

Red Chili Powder (1/4 teaspoon)

  - 3 calories

  - 0.2 grams of protein

  - 0.1 grams of fat

  - 0.7 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits: Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide antioxidant benefits. Adds heat and flavor to dishes.

Black Salt (1/4 teaspoon)

  - 0 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 0 grams of protein

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits: Contains trace minerals and may aid digestion. Provides a unique flavor and is often used in traditional Indian cuisine.

Salt (to taste)

  - 0 calories

  - High in sodium

Benefits: Essential for electrolyte balance and proper muscle and nerve function. Should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon)

  - 120 calories

  - 14 grams of fat (1 gram of saturated fat)

  - 0 grams of cholesterol

Benefits: Provides healthy fats for cooking. The type of vegetable oil can vary in its nutrient profile, so opting for oils high in monounsaturated fats is beneficial.

Mustard Seeds (1/2 teaspoon)

  - 12 calories

  - 0.6 grams of protein

  - 0.8 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of carbohydrates

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory effects. Supports digestion and may help with metabolic health.

Finely Chopped Ginger (1/2 teaspoon)

  - 2 calories

  - 0.1 grams of protein

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 0.5 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. May help with nausea and improve overall gut health.

Finely Chopped Green Chili (1/2 teaspoon, optional)

  - 2 calories

  - 0.1 grams of protein

  - 0.1 grams of fat

  - 0.4 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits: Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide antioxidant benefits. Adds spiciness and flavor to dishes.

Water (1/2 cup, adjust as needed)

  - 0 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 0 grams of protein

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits: Essential for hydration and helps in adjusting the consistency of the dish.