Imli Chutney (Tamarind Chutney)
Imli Chutney, made from tamarind pulp, sugar, and a blend of aromatic spices, complements savoury snacks and Indian street food. With its tangy and sweet flavours, it is a delightful condiment that adds a burst of taste to a wide range of dishes.
Ingredients
- 2cuptamarind
- 4cupwater
- 1 1/2cupSugar
- 1/2cupJaggery (optional)
- 1tbspDegi Red Chilli Powder
- 1tsproasted Cumin powder
- 1tspSalt
- 1tspCumin Seeds
- 1tbspvegetable oil
- 1tspBlack salt
How to make Imli Chutney (Tamarind Chutney)
Soak the tamarind pulp in a bowl with 2 cups of warm water for 30 minutes or until it softens.
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing the tamarind pulp with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard any solids.
Pour the tamarind liquid into the saucepan.
Place the saucepan on medium-high heat. Bring it to a boil.
Add the sugar and jaggery (if using) to the saucepan and stir until it dissolves completely.
Add the roasted cumin powder, red chilli powder, salt, cumin seeds, and oil to the saucepan. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, add a little water to adjust. Do not over-thick the chutney.
To check the readiness of the tamarind chutney, dip a spoon into the chutney. If it forms a thick and smooth coating on the back of the spoon, it indicates that the chutney has reached the desired consistency and is ready.
Add black salt and mix well. Let the chutney cool to room temperature.
Transfer the chutney to a clean, airtight jar or container and refrigerate.
Enjoy as a dipping sauce with samosas and fritters or as a condiment in various Indian chaat recipes.
Tips & Tricks
Adjust the amount of sugar and jaggery according to your taste preference. If you prefer a sweeter chutney, you can increase the amount of sugar or jaggery. Taste the chutney as you go and adjust the sweetness accordingly.
The chutney should have a thick and pourable consistency. If it’s too thick during cooking, add a little water to achieve the desired consistency. Remember that the chutney will thicken further as it cools, so don't make it overly thick.
Servings vary based on the portion served.
FAQS
How do I make Imli Chutney thicker if it turns out too runny?
If your Imli Chutney is too runny, you can simmer it on low heat for a longer period, stirring occasionally until it thickens to your desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, simply add a little water to adjust the texture.
Can I substitute tamarind with another ingredient in this chutney recipe?
While tamarind is the key ingredient for authentic Imli Chutney, you can use alternatives like date paste or a mixture of lemon juice and brown sugar for a different flavor profile. However, the taste will vary from the traditional recipe.
What is the best way to store homemade Imli Chutney?
To store homemade Imli Chutney, transfer it to a clean, airtight jar or container and refrigerate. It can last for up to 2-3 weeks in the fridge. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it.
What dishes pair well with Imli Chutney?
Imli Chutney is a versatile condiment that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It complements savory snacks like samosas, pakoras, and chaat, and can also be used as a dipping sauce for fritters or as a tangy addition to wraps and sandwiches.
Is Imli Chutney suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, Imli Chutney is suitable for vegan diets as it is made from tamarind, sugar, and spices, with no animal products involved. Just ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly, as some sugars may be processed with bone char.
Loading reviews...
Leena Kohli
(@leenakohli)
Elevate your confidence through the magic of home cooking with my easy-to-follow recipes 👩🍳✨ Elevate your confidence through the magic of home cooking with my easy-to-follow recipes 👩🍳✨...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia