There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade chutney. The combination of tangy, sweet and spicy flavors is simply irresistible. And when it comes to chutneys, the possibilities are endless. From mango to tamarind, there’s a chutney for every taste and occasion. But today, we’re going to talk about a chutney that will truly tantalize your taste buds – the tomato and curry leaf chutney.
This chutney is a staple in many Indian households, and for good reason. The juicy, ripe tomatoes are simmered to perfection, creating a tangy and aromatic base. But it’s the addition of fresh curry leaves that gives this chutney its distinct earthy flavor. This chutney is a versatile condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes – from biryani to rice, dal, grilled chicken, and more. And the best part? It’s easy to make and can be stored for future use.
To make this delicious chutney, you’ll need a few simple ingredients – ripe tomatoes, fresh curry leaves, ginger, garlic, green chillies, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, sugar, and salt. The combination of these ingredients creates a perfect balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Start by chopping the tomatoes into small chunks. In a pan, heat some oil and add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they start to crackle, add the ginger, garlic, and green chillies. Sauté for a minute before adding the curry leaves. The aroma of the curry leaves will fill your kitchen, giving you a preview of the deliciousness to come.
Now it’s time to add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Sprinkle some turmeric powder and red chilli powder and mix well. Let the tomatoes cook on medium heat until they become soft and mushy. This will take about 10-12 minutes. At this point, add some sugar and salt as per your taste. Let the chutney simmer for another 5 minutes, and you’re done!
The end result is a thick and chunky chutney with a beautiful deep red color. The tangy and sweet flavors of the tomatoes are perfectly balanced by the earthy notes of the curry leaves. The chutney has a slight kick of heat from the green chillies, making it a perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes like biryani and dal.
But this chutney is not limited to just Indian cuisine. It can be used in a variety of ways to add a burst of flavor to your dishes. Spread it on a piece of toast for a quick and delicious breakfast. Use it as a dip for your chips and crackers. Add it to your sandwiches for a tangy twist. The possibilities are endless.
One of the best things about this chutney is that it can be stored for future use. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it a convenient condiment to have on hand for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and flavorful side dish.
Apart from being delicious, this chutney also has some health benefits. Tomatoes are a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins, while curry leaves are known for their medicinal properties. They are believed to aid in digestion, improve eyesight, and even help in preventing hair loss. So not only is this chutney a treat for your taste buds, but it’s also good for your health.
In conclusion, the tomato and curry leaf chutney is a must-try for all chutney lovers out there. Its tangy and earthy flavors, versatility, and health benefits make it a winner in every aspect. So the next time you’re looking to add some oomph to your meal, remember to whip up a batch of this delicious chutney. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
