Easy Onion Tomato Chutney Recipe is a delightful and flavorful condiment that can bring a burst of taste to any meal. It has a perfect balance of tanginess, sweetness, and spice. This chutney is not only simple to make, but it also uses ingredients that you can easily find in your kitchen. Whether you are serving it with traditional South Indian dishes or enjoying it with your favorite snacks, this chutney will always add a delicious twist.
Ingredients for Onion Tomato Chutney
Before starting, let’s gather all the ingredients you will need. This chutney uses common ingredients, which means you can quickly whip it up whenever needed.
- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
- 2 ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 3-4 dried red chilies (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably sesame oil for authentic flavor)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Easy Onion Tomato Chutney Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
To begin, chop the onions and tomatoes, and set them aside. You should also peel the garlic and ginger. Preparing everything first makes cooking much easier and faster.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, heat one tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the dried red chilies and sauté them for a minute. This helps release their flavor into the oil. After that, add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir occasionally and cook them until the onions become soft and translucent.
Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes
Now, add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Stir everything together, then cover the pan. Let the tomatoes cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step softens the tomatoes and helps blend the flavors. Once the tomatoes are soft, add the tamarind pulp. This will give the chutney a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the onions.
Step 4: Blend the Mixture
Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes. After that, transfer it to a blender or food processor. Blend the ingredients until they form a smooth paste. If the chutney is too thick, simply add a little water to adjust the consistency.
Step 5: Temper the Chutney
To bring out even more flavor, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in the same pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add a pinch of asafoetida and stir for a few seconds. Finally, pour this tempering into the blended chutney and mix everything well.
Tips for the Best Onion Tomato Chutney
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your chutney mild, reduce the number of dried red chilies. If you prefer it spicier, you can add extra chilies or a pinch of chili powder.
- Tamarind Alternatives: If tamarind pulp is unavailable, you can replace it with a teaspoon of lemon juice. This will still give the chutney a tangy kick.
- Storage Tips: Store your chutney in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about a week. When serving, you can reheat it for the best flavor.
- Add a Garnish: If you like, you can garnish the chutney with fresh coriander leaves or drizzle a little sesame oil on top to enhance the taste.
Health Benefits of Onion Tomato Chutney
This chutney is not only tasty, but it also offers a range of health benefits:
- Packed with Antioxidants: Tomatoes are full of antioxidants like lycopene, which can help protect your body from harmful free radicals.
- Boosts Immunity: The garlic and ginger in this chutney are known to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can support your immune system.
- Helps Digestion: Asafoetida and tamarind are both great for digestion. They help prevent bloating and aid in the smooth functioning of your digestive system.
- Low-Calorie Option: This chutney is a low-calorie addition to your meals, making it a great choice for anyone watching their calorie intake.
Serving Suggestions
Onion Tomato Chutney is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes:
Add a dollop to grilled meats or roasted vegetables to bring out an extra layer of flavor.
Pair it with traditional South Indian dishes such as idlis, dosas, and vada.
Use it as a dip for crispy snacks like pakoras, samosas, or crackers.
Spread it on bread or tortillas for a delicious twist in your sandwiches or wraps.
FAQs About Onion Tomato Chutney
Can I make Onion Tomato Chutney without tamarind?
Absolutely! If you don't have tamarind pulp, you can substitute it with a teaspoon of lemon juice or a small amount of vinegar. This will still give the chutney a tangy flavor.
How can I adjust the spice level of the chutney?
To adjust the spice level, you can add more or fewer dried red chilies. If you want a milder chutney, reduce the amount of chilies. For extra heat, you can also add chili powder or increase the number of dried chilies used.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
Yes, fresh tomatoes work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure they are ripe for the best flavor. If you want to enhance the taste further, you can roast the tomatoes slightly before adding them to the chutney.
Is it possible to make this chutney ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chutney in advance. In fact, the chutney often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply store it in the refrigerator and use it when needed.
What can I serve Onion Tomato Chutney with?
Onion Tomato Chutney pairs well with many dishes, especially South Indian staples like idli, dosa, and vada. It can also be served with pakoras, samosas, grilled meats, or as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.
Can I freeze Onion Tomato Chutney?
While it is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Onion Tomato Chutney. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To use it, simply thaw and reheat it.
What can I do if the chutney is too thick?
If your chutney turns out too thick, you can easily adjust the consistency by adding a little water while blending. Add small amounts at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I make this chutney without garlic or ginger?
Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the garlic and ginger. However, these ingredients add a lot of flavor and depth to the chutney. If you're avoiding them for dietary reasons, the chutney will still be tasty but slightly milder.
Can I make this chutney spicier with different chilies?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of chilies for varying spice levels. For example, adding green chilies can give the chutney a different kind of heat, while using chili powder or cayenne pepper can increase the spiciness.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Onion Tomato Chutney Recipe stands out because it is simple, quick, and full of flavor. It combines the natural sweetness of onions, the tanginess of tomatoes and tamarind, and the warmth of spices to create a chutney that pairs well with many dishes. Furthermore, it is easy to make, even for beginners, and the ingredients are easy to find. With just a few simple steps, you can make a chutney that will enhance any meal