tomato chutney recipe

Introduction:

Tomato chutney is a delightful and versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to your meals. Whether served as a side dish, a spread, or a dip, this homemade tomato chutney is a surefire way to elevate your culinary experience. In this detailed recipe, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of creating a delectable tomato chutney that will leave your taste buds tingling.

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped
2. 1 cup red onions, finely chopped
3. 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
4. 1/4 cup fresh ginger, grated
5. 1/4 cup garlic, minced
6. 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
7. 1 cup vinegar
8. 1 cup brown sugar
9. One teaspoon of mustard seeds
10. One teaspoon cumin seeds
11. 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
12. 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
13. Salt to taste
14. Two tablespoons oil (preferably mustard oil)

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients:

Begin by washing and chopping the tomatoes, onions, and red bell pepper. Grate the fresh ginger, mince the garlic, and finely chop the green chilies.

Heat the Oil:

In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Mustard oil adds an authentic flavor, but you can use any cooking oil of your choice.

Tempering the Spices:

Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds to the heated oil. Allow them to stumble and release their aromatic flavors. This step adds depth and fragrance to the chutney.

Sauté Aromatics:

Add the finely chopped onions, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chopped green chilies to the pan. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the raw aroma of ginger and garlic fades away.

Add Tomatoes and Bell Pepper:

Incorporate the chopped tomatoes and red bell pepper into the pan. Stir well to combine with the sautéed aromatics.

Simmering the Mixture:

Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer until the tomatoes break down and the bell pepper becomes tender. This process will take approximately 20-25 minutes.

Adding Spices:

Sprinkle in the red chili flakes, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed.

Pour in Vinegar and Sugar:

Add the vinegar and brown sugar to the pan. Stir well to dissolve the sugar, and let the chutney simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld, and the chutney will thicken to a desirable consistency.

Adjusting Seasoning:

Taste the chutney and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more red chili flakes; for sweetness, add extra sugar.

Cooling and Storing:

Allow the tomato chutney to cool completely before transferring it to sterilized jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

Serve and Enjoy:

Your homemade tomato chutney is now ready to be savored! Serve it as a condiment with Indian dishes, as a spread on bread, or as a dip for snacks.

Conclusion:

This homemade tomato chutney recipe offers a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a versatile condiment that complements a variety of dishes. Experiment with different spice levels and enjoy the satisfaction of adding a personal touch to your culinary creations. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a flavorful journey with this delicious tomato chutney recipe!