Spicy Tomato Chutney

Ingredients

• 500g (2 cups) ripe tomatoes, chopped 500g (2 cups) ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon vinegar 1 tablespoon vinegar

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 80 kcal / 335 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 6g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
3. 3.
   Add minced garlic and chopped onions. Sauté until onions turn translucent.
4. 4.
   Add chopped tomatoes, red chili powder, turmeric powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
5. 5.
   Cook the mixture on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the chutney thickens.
6. 6.
   Stir in vinegar and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and let the chutney cool.
8. 8.
   Transfer the chutney to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
9. 9.
   Serve the Spicy Tomato Chutney as a dip, spread, or accompaniment to your favorite Indian dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomatoes — Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
• Mustard seeds — Toast the mustard seeds in the oil before adding other ingredients to enhance their flavor.
• Red chili powder — Adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice preference.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky flavor, you can roast the tomatoes before adding them to the chutney.
• Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for an extra depth of flavor.
• Adjust the amount of red chili powder and sugar according to your taste preferences.
• Store the chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Serve the chutney at room temperature for the best flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Spicy Tomato Chutney alongside dosas, idlis, samosas, or as a condiment for any Indian meal. It also pairs well with grilled meats or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Spicy Tomato Chutney with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for an attractive presentation. Serve it in a small bowl or as a dollop on the side of the plate for easy access.