Mint Chutney

Ingredients

This adaptation of the British mint sauce to South Karnataka cuisine incorporates the use of traditional South Indian ingredients such as jaggery and lime juice. The addition of jaggery adds a subtle sweetness that complements the tanginess of the lime juice, creating a unique flavor profile. The chutney is also spiced up with green chilies to cater to the South Karnataka preference for a bit of heat in their dishes. We alse have the original recipe for Mint Sauce, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (40g) fresh mint leaves 2 cups (40g) fresh mint leaves
• 2 green chilies, chopped 2 green chilies, chopped
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) lime juice 1 tablespoon (15ml) lime juice
• 1 tablespoon (15g) jaggery, grated 1 tablespoon (15g) jaggery, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) cumin seeds 1/4 teaspoon (1g) cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) mustard seeds 1/4 teaspoon (1g) mustard seeds
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 45 kcal / 188 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 0.4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Wash the mint leaves thoroughly and remove any tough stems.
2. 2.
   In a blender or food processor, combine the mint leaves, green chilies, lime juice, jaggery, and salt. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste-like consistency.
3. 3.
   Heat oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter.
4. 4.
   Pour the tempering over the mint chutney and mix well.
5. 5.
   Transfer the chutney to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Serve chilled with dosas, idlis, rice, or any South Karnataka dish of your choice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mint leaves — Ensure that the mint leaves are fresh and free from any wilting or discoloration for the best flavor.
• Jaggery — If jaggery is not available, you can substitute it with an equal amount of brown sugar or palm sugar for a similar sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the spiciness by adding or reducing the number of green chilies according to your preference.
• For a smoother texture, you can strain the chutney after blending to remove any fibrous bits of mint leaves.
• Store the mint chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving advice

Serve the mint chutney chilled as a side dish or condiment alongside dosas, idlis, rice, or any South Karnataka meal. It can also be used as a spread for sandwiches or as a dip for snacks.

Presentation advice

Garnish the mint chutney with a sprig of fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of finely chopped coriander leaves to add a pop of color and freshness to the presentation.