November 8, 2023

Tamarind Chutney

Tamarind chutney, also known as Imli chutney in India, is a sweet and tangy condiment that adds a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. Whether it’s drizzled over crispy samosas, spooned onto pani puri, or served as a dip with pakoras, tamarind chutney is a must-have in Indian kitchens. Its complex flavor profile—sweet from jaggery or sugar, tangy from tamarind, and spiced just right—makes it a standout component in Indian street food and snacks.

Table of Contents

What Is Tamarind Chutney?

Is a traditional Indian condiment made using tamarind pulp, jaggery (or sugar), and a blend of spices such as roasted cumin, ginger powder, and black salt. It can be stored in the refrigerator for weeks, making it a handy addition to elevate any snack or meal. The chutney has a deep brown color and a rich, syrupy texture.

Ingredients

Here’s a simple breakdown of the classic ingredients:

Tamarind pulp – Extracted from dried tamarind pods or store-bought concentrate.
Jaggery or brown sugar – Adds sweetness and balances the tang.
Spices – Roasted cumin powder, dry ginger powder, black salt, and chili powder bring warmth and depth.

Water – Used to adjust consistency.

Optional Add-ins:

Dates – Some variations include dates for a thicker and milder sweetness.
Raisins – Occasionally added for extra richness.

How to Make Tamarind Chutney

Ingredients:

½ cup tamarind (seedless)
1½ cups water
½ cup jaggery (or brown sugar)

1 tsp roasted cumin powder
½ tsp dry ginger powder
½ tsp black salt

¼ tsp red chili powder
A pinch of regular salt

Instructions:

Soak Tamarind: Soak the tamarind in warm water for 20–30 minutes. Once soft, mash it and strain to remove fibers and seeds.

Cook the Chutney: In a saucepan, combine the tamarind pulp with jaggery, remaining water, and spices. Stir well.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer for 10–15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Cool and Store: Let it cool. The chutney will thicken more as it cools. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 weeks.

How to Use

As a dip for samosas, pakoras, and kachoris
In chaats like bhel puri, dahi puri, and sev puri
As a side with parathas or stuffed flatbreads

Drizzled over grilled vegetables or roasted nuts for a zingy twist

Storage Tips

Tamarind chutney stores beautifully. Keep it refrigerated in a sterilized jar, and always use a clean spoon. You can even freeze it in ice cube trays for quick single-serve portions.

Tamarind is one of those magical condiments that can instantly transform a plain dish into something bold and flavorful. With its harmony of sweet, sour, and spicy notes, it’s no surprise that this chutney is a staple across Indian households and street food stalls alike. Make a batch at home—you’ll be amazed how often you reach for it!

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