Kara Chutney (Onion-Tomato Chutney)

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Preeti Kalia (@hobbi_espassion)

A smoky, tangy, and spicy chutney perfect for South Indian dishes like dosa, idli, or roti.

Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
35min
Kara Chutney (Onion-Tomato Chutney) recipe

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = a portion of chutney)

Main Chutney

  • 1/2cup
    mustard oil
  • 1tsp
    cumin seeds
  • 1pinch
    asafoetida
  • 2clove
    garlic
  • 3piece
    onion, sliced
  • 6piece
    tomato, diced
  • 6piece
    green chili
  • 1/2in
    ginger
  • 1tsp
    sendha namak (rock salt)
  • 1tsp
    red chili powder
  • 1tsp
    degi mirch

For Tempering

  • 1tbsp
    urad dal
  • 1tbsp
    chana dal
  • 1/2tsp
    mustard seeds (rai)
  • 1sprig
    curry leaves
  • 1tbsp
    oil

How to make Kara Chutney (Onion-Tomato Chutney)

Heat the Oil

  1. In a pan, heat mustard oil until it reaches a slight smoking point.

  2. Reduce the heat and add cumin seeds and asafoetida.

  3. Add garlic pods and sauté until fragrant.

  4. Add sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent.

Cook Tomatoes & Spices

  1. Add diced tomatoes and green chilies.

  2. Stir in ginger (chopped or grated).

  3. Add sendha namak (rock salt), red chili powder, and degi mirch.

  4. Cook until tomatoes turn soft and mushy.

  5. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

  6. Blend it into a smooth or slightly coarse chutney as per preference.

Prepare the Tempering

  1. In a small pan, heat oil.

  2. Add urad dal, chana dal, and mustard seeds (rai).

  3. When the mustard seeds splutter, add curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds.

  4. Pour the tempering over the chutney and mix well.

Tips & Tricks

  1. Serve with dosa, idli, or roti for a traditional South Indian experience.

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Preeti Kalia

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