Mint Chutney

If you’ve ever dined in an Indian restaurant, then you’ll be familiar with this simple yet flavorful mint chutney served alongside most meals in Indian cuisine. It’s that vibrant green dip that adds a refreshing kick to your palate. Usually served with papadom at the beginning of the meal, this chutney makes for a versatile accompaniment to nearly any Indian-inspired dish.

I recently found myself with a surplus of mint in my herb garden. The plant had grown vigorously and was starting to take over, leaving my thyme and oregano craving some much-needed sunlight. That’s when I realized it was the perfect time to whip up a batch of homemade mint chutney.

To create this delicious condiment, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. I love recipes that make use of what I already have on hand, and this one fits the bill perfectly. Not only does it allow me to put my abundant mint to good use, but it also adds a burst of flavor to my meals without breaking the bank.

Here’s What You’ll Need

• Fresh cilantro: Adds a vibrant and herbaceous flavor to the chutney.
• Fresh mint leaves: Provides a refreshing and cooling element to the chutney.
• White onion: Adds a mild onion flavor and enhances the overall taste.
• Banana or serrano pepper: Can be chosen based on personal preference to add a hint of sweetness or spiciness to the chutney.
• Lime juice: Adds a tangy and citrusy note to brighten the flavors.
• Water: Helps in blending the ingredients together and achieving the desired consistency.

Let’s Get Started

With a handful of fresh mint leaves, cilantro (coriander) leaves, ginger, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and optionally some green chili for extra heat, you’re ready to begin. Using a hand blender, combine all the ingredients together, adding a tablespoon or two of water to help with the blending process. Blend until you achieve a smooth and vibrant green paste, adjusting the consistency with a little more water if needed.

Once blended, taste your chutney and season it with salt to your preference. For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, you can also add a pinch of sugar. The lemon juice will provide a tangy note, balancing out the flavors.

With this recipe, you can expect a yield of approximately 3/4 cup of pudina, or mint, chutney for every two cups of mint and cilantro used. It’s a generous amount that will last you through multiple meals, ensuring you always have a flavorful dip at hand.

Helpful Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chutney, remove the seeds and membrane from the serrano pepper before blending. For a spicier kick, you can add additional peppers or include the seeds.
• Consistency control: If you find your chutney too thick, you can add a little more water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, you can blend in a few extra mint leaves or cilantro to thicken it up.
• Taste and adjust: Always taste your chutney before chilling and serving. Adjust the seasoning by adding more lime juice, salt, or any other desired flavors to suit your preference.
• Storing leftovers: If you have any leftover chutney, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for a few days and can be enjoyed as a dip or a flavorful spread for sandwiches and wraps.
• Customize it: Feel free to get creative and add your own twist to the recipe. You can experiment with additional ingredients such as garlic, ginger, cumin, or even a touch of sugar to further enhance the flavors and personalize the chutney to your liking.

Now, onto the best part—serving and enjoying your mint chutney!

Whether you’re craving the delightful flavors of momos or the pillowy goodness of naan bread, this chutney is the perfect accompaniment. Its cooling and tangy profile will beautifully complement the rich and aromatic flavors of your Indian-inspired feast.

So, Hungry People, next time you find yourself with an abundance of mint or simply want to try a new dip, give this mint chutney a go. You’ll be amazed at how a handful of ingredients can transform into a delightful and refreshing condiment, elevating your meals to a whole new level.

Happy cooking and, as always, happy eating!

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