Classic Coconut Chutney, South-Indian style

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Leena Kohli (@leenakohli)

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...

Classic Coconut Chutney, South-Indian style  recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
5min
Total Time
20min

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = 1/4 cup)

For the Coconut Mix

  • fresh coconut (sliced or chopped)
    fresh coconut (sliced or chopped)
    2cups
  • roasted chana dal
    roasted chana dal
    2tbsp
  • chopped ginger
    chopped ginger
    1tbsp
  • green chillies
    green chillies
    2piece
  • lemon-sized ball of tamarind
    lemon-sized ball of tamarind
    1piece
  • yogurt
    yogurt
    1cup
  • salt (adjust to taste)
    salt (adjust to taste)
    1/2tbsp

For Tempering

  • oil
    oil
    1tbsp
  • black mustard seeds
    black mustard seeds
    1tsp
  • asafoetida (hing)
    asafoetida (hing)
    1/4tsp
  • toor dal
    toor dal
    1tsp
  • urad dal
    urad dal
    1tsp
  • roasted peanuts (optional)
    roasted peanuts (optional)
    1/4cup
  • dry red chillies (broken)
    dry red chillies (broken)
    2piece
  • curry leaves
    curry leaves
    1sprig

How to make Classic Coconut Chutney, South-Indian style

For the Coconut Mix

  1. Step 1

    Combine the fresh coconut, roasted chana dal, ginger, green chillies, tamarind, yogurt, and salt in a blender.

    Step 1.1: Combine the fresh coconut, roasted chana dal, ginger, green chillies, tamarind, yogurt, and salt in a blender
  2. Step 2

    Grind into a thick, semi-liquid consistency, adjusting with a splash of milk or water as needed.

  3. Step 3

    Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl and set aside.

    Step 1.1: Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl and set aside

For Tempering

  1. Step 1

    Heat oil in a small pan over medium heat.

  2. Step 2

    Add toor dal and urad dal, stirring until they turn golden brown.

  3. Step 3

    Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.

  4. Step 4

    Stir in asafoetida, broken dry red chillies, and curry leaves. Cook for a few seconds until fragrant.

    Step 2.1: Stir in asafoetida, broken dry red chillies, and curry leaves
  5. Step 5

    Pour the tempered mixture over the prepared coconut chutney and mix well.

    Step 2.1: Pour the tempered mixture over the prepared coconut chutney and mix well

For Serving

  1. Step 1

    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.

    Step 3.1: 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

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

174.2kcal (8.71%)

Protein

3.4g (6.84%)

Carbs

9.2g (3.33%)

Sugars

1.7g (3.34%)

Healthy Fat

4.3g

Unhealthy Fat

10.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

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Tips & Tricks

  1. Have all tempering ingredients ready to avoid burning during cooking.

  2. For a thinner chutney, add more yogurt, water, or even a splash of milk while blending.

  3. Roasted peanuts add a layer of crunch and flavour to the chutney, but can be skipped if preferred.

FAQS

  1. How can I adjust the consistency of my coconut chutney?

    To adjust the consistency of your coconut chutney, you can add a splash of milk or water while blending. If you prefer a thicker chutney, use less liquid, and for a thinner consistency, gradually add more until you reach your desired texture.

  2. What are some dietary substitutions for the ingredients in coconut chutney?

    If you're looking for dietary substitutions, you can replace yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt for a vegan version. For those avoiding peanuts, simply omit them or substitute with sunflower seeds for added crunch without allergens.

  3. How should I store leftover coconut chutney?

    Store leftover coconut chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in small portions. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before use and give it a good stir before serving.

  4. What dishes pair well with coconut chutney?

    Coconut chutney pairs beautifully with South Indian dishes like idli, dosa, and uttapam. It also works well as a dip for snacks such as vada, pakoras, or even with bread and veggie sticks. Its refreshing flavor can balance out spicy and rich dishes, making it a versatile condiment.

  5. Can I make coconut chutney ahead of time for a party?

    Yes, you can make coconut chutney ahead of time! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, and consider making the tempering fresh right before serving for the best flavor.

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Leena Kohli

(@leenakohli)

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