Cucumber Chutney

Dish

Cucumber Chutney

Cucumber chutney is a traditional Indian condiment that is made by blending fresh cucumbers, coconut, green chilies, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices into a smooth paste. The result is a refreshing and flavorful chutney that is perfect for adding to sandwiches, burgers, and other dishes. Cucumber chutney is also a great way to add some extra nutrition to your meals, as cucumbers are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. To make cucumber chutney, start by peeling and chopping the cucumbers. Then, blend the cucumbers, coconut, green chilies, ginger, garlic, and salt into a smooth paste. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves. Once the seeds start to pop, add the cucumber paste and cook for a few minutes until the chutney has thickened. Serve hot or cold as desired.

Jan Dec

Origins and history

Cucumber chutney has been a popular condiment in India for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the southern part of the country, where cucumbers are abundant. In addition to its delicious flavor, cucumber chutney is also known for its health benefits. Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and can help promote hydration and support healthy skin.

Dietary considerations

Suitable for: ['Vegetarian', 'Vegan', 'Gluten-free'].

Variations

There are many variations of cucumber chutney, each with its own unique blend of spices and flavors. Some recipes call for the addition of mint leaves, while others use a combination of different types of chilies. Some recipes also call for the use of yogurt, which adds a creamy texture to the chutney. Experiment with different recipes to find the one that best suits your taste preferences.

Presentation and garnishing

To make cucumber chutney, be sure to use fresh, ripe cucumbers for the best flavor. You can also adjust the amount of green chilies and spices to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder chutney, use fewer chilies. If you like your chutney extra spicy, add more chilies or use a spicier variety of chili. Store leftover chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips & Tricks

For a creamier texture, add a tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream to the chutney before serving. You can also experiment with different types of chilies to achieve different levels of spiciness. If you don't have fresh coconut, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut instead.

Side-dishes

Cucumber chutney is typically served as a side dish with rice, but it can also be used as a condiment for sandwiches, burgers, and other dishes. It pairs well with a variety of Indian dishes, including biryani, samosas, and dosas.

Drink pairings

Cucumber chutney pairs well with a variety of drinks, including lassi, iced tea, and lemonade. For a more adult beverage, try pairing cucumber chutney with a crisp white wine or a light beer.