Coconut chutney is a classic South Indian side dish that elevates any meal with its vibrant flavours and wholesome goodness. Made with fresh coconut, roasted lentils, tamarind, and a tempering of spices, this chutney pairs beautifully with breakfast staples like idli, dosa, uttapam, and upma, as well as snacks such...
Coconut chutney is a classic South Indian side dish that elevates any meal with its vibrant flavours and wholesome goodness. Made with fresh coconut, roasted lentils, tamarind, and a tempering of spices, this chutney pairs beautifully with breakfast staples like idli, dosa, uttapam, and upma, as well as snacks such as vada and pakoras.
It’s not just tasty but also healthy! Coconut is packed with healthy fats, fibre, and essential vitamins, making it both nourishing and satisfying. Adding yogurt lends a creamy texture and provides probiotics for gut health while tempering with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and red chillies enhances flavour.
Coconut chutney isn’t just for South Indian food. Use it as a dip for bread, fritters, or veggie sticks, or serve it with spicy and rich dishes to balance the flavours.
Whether it’s a festive meal or a simple breakfast, this refreshing chutney is easy to make and a must-have on your table.
This recipe provides step-by-step instructions to create the perfect coconut chutney, with a quick tempering to capture its signature South Indian flavour. Adjust the consistency to your liking and enjoy this versatile chutney with your favourite dishes!
Ingredients
For the Coconut Mix
- 2cupsfresh coconut (sliced or chopped)
- 2tbsproasted chana dal
- 1tbspchopped ginger
- 2piecegreen chillies
- 1piecelemon-sized ball of tamarind
- 1cupyogurt
- 1/2tbspsalt (adjust to taste)
For Tempering
- 1tbspoil
- 1tspblack mustard seeds
- 1/4tspasafoetida (hing)
- 1tsptoor dal
- 1tspurad dal
- 1/4cuproasted peanuts (optional)
- 2piecedry red chillies (broken)
- 1sprigcurry leaves
How to make Classic Coconut Chutney, South-Indian style
For the Coconut Mix
Combine the fresh coconut, roasted chana dal, ginger, green chillies, tamarind, yogurt, and salt in a blender.
Grind into a thick, semi-liquid consistency, adjusting with a splash of milk or water as needed.
Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl and set aside.
For Tempering
Heat oil in a small pan over medium heat.
Add toor dal and urad dal, stirring until they turn golden brown.
Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.
Stir in asafoetida, broken dry red chillies, and curry leaves. Cook for a few seconds until fragrant.
Pour the tempered mixture over the prepared coconut chutney and mix well.
For Serving
Serve this flavourful chutney as a side dish with South Indian favourites like idli, dosa, vada, uttapam, or even as a dip for snacks and appetisers.
Tips & Tricks
Have all tempering ingredients ready to avoid burning during cooking.
For a thinner chutney, add more yogurt, water, or even a splash of milk while blending.
Roasted peanuts add a layer of crunch and flavour to the chutney, but can be skipped if preferred.
FAQS
Can I use frozen coconut instead of fresh coconut for this chutney?
Yes, you can use frozen coconut, but make sure to thaw it completely before blending to achieve the best texture and flavor.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the coconut chutney?
You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer green chillies according to your taste. Additionally, you can omit the dry red chillies in the tempering if you prefer a milder chutney.
What can I substitute for tamarind if I don't have it?
If you don't have tamarind, you can use a little lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute to add acidity, but adjust the quantity to taste.
How long can I store the coconut chutney in the refrigerator?
Coconut chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as it may thicken over time.
Can I make this chutney vegan?
Yes, you can make this chutney vegan by omitting the yogurt or substituting it with a plant-based yogurt alternative.
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Leena Kohli
(@leenakohli)
Elevate your confidence through the magic of home cooking with my easy-to-follow recipes 👩🍳✨ Elevate your confidence through the magic of home cooking with my easy-to-follow recipes 👩🍳✨...
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