Discover a World of Flavors with These 20 Exotic Chutney Recipes!
Chutneys are a staple in many Indian and Southeast Asian cuisines, adding a burst of flavor to any dish. But why stick to traditional tomato or mango chutneys when you can explore a world of exotic flavors? From the sweetness of pineapple and banana to the heat of garlic and chili, these 20 recipes will take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure.
In this article, we’ll delve into the vibrant world of chutneys, exploring unique flavor combinations that will elevate your cooking and add a touch of excitement to your meals. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, get ready to spice up your life with these 20 exotic chutney recipes!
Mango Ginger Chutney
This sweet and spicy chutney is a perfect blend of Indian flavors, with the sweetness of ripe mangoes balanced by the warmth of fresh ginger. It’s a great accompaniment to various dishes like naan, rice, or as a dip for snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine mango, ginger, sugar, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reduces slightly, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Add cayenne pepper (if using) and water. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Tomato Onion Chutney
A sweet and tangy condiment perfect for accompanying Indian dishes or as a dip for snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the diced tomatoes, thinly sliced onions, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and ground cumin.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld together (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
4. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Coriander Chutney
This creamy chutney is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, naan bread, or as a dip for snacks. The combination of coconut, coriander, and spices creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, coconut, onion, garlic, coriander, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Blend until smooth.
2. Add salt and lemon juice; blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This chutney is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Tamarind Date Chutney
A sweet and tangy condiment perfect for accompanying Indian dishes, this Tamarind Date Chutney is a flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dates, pitted
– 1/2 cup tamarind paste
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine dates, tamarind paste, brown sugar, and ghee or oil.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Heat cumin in a small pan over medium heat for 1 minute.
4. Add the blended date mixture to the pan and stir well.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chutney thickens slightly.
6. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
7. Stir in water and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mint Peanut Chutney
This refreshing chutney is a perfect blend of cooling mint and creamy peanut, making it an ideal accompaniment to Indian dishes like naan, tandoori chicken, or as a dip for snacks. With its vibrant green color and tangy flavor, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mint leaves, peanuts, onion, garlic, lemon juice, and ginger paste.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation time)
Apple Cinnamon Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a sauce for grilled meats or cheeses. With the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s a delicious addition to any fall or winter gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped apples, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is thickened (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
4. Let cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple Mint Chutney
This vibrant chutney combines the sweetness of pineapple with the cooling freshness of mint, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes. Whether you’re serving it as a condiment or using it as an ingredient in recipes, this chutney is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine pineapple, mint, onion, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, adding lemon juice and ginger as needed.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Garlic Chili Chutney
A flavorful condiment that adds a kick to any meal! This garlic chili chutney is perfect for topping naan bread, using as a dip, or adding to grilled meats and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup green chili peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, garlic, and green chili peppers.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Stir in lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Plum Cardamom Chutney
This sweet and spicy chutney is a perfect accompaniment to Indian flatbreads, grilled meats, or as a dip for snacks. The combination of plums, cardamom, and spices creates a unique flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped fresh plums
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated cardamom
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine plums, sugar, water, cardamom, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chutney has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in salt to taste.
5. Store the chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beetroot Coconut Chutney
This vibrant red chutney is a perfect blend of sweet beetroot, creamy coconut, and tangy spices. Serve it with Indian flatbreads, naan, or as a dip for snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beetroot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup fresh coconut, shredded
– 1/4 cup green chili peppers, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine beetroot, coconut, green chilies, garlic, and ginger.
2. Blend until smooth, adding a splash of water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin powder and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the blended mixture and stir well. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chutney thickens slightly.
5. Season with salt and lemon juice. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carrot Ginger Chutney
A sweet and tangy condiment that’s perfect for accompanying grilled meats, naan bread, or as a dip for snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup chopped fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the grated carrots, chopped ginger, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the olive oil and season with salt to taste.
5. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curry Leaf Chutney
This flavorful chutney is a staple in many Indian households, made with the aromatic curry leaves and spices. It’s perfect for accompanying snacks, sandwiches, or as a condiment to elevate your meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh curry leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1-2 green chilies, seeded and chopped (for extra heat)
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the curry leaves and stir well to combine. Cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the lemon juice and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Blend the mixture in a blender or food processor until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peach Basil Chutney
This summer-inspired chutney combines the sweetness of peaches with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for topping yogurt, naan, or using as a sauce for grilled meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced ripe peaches
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine peaches, basil, onion, and jalapeño.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is soft and fragrant (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Stir in honey and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 17-20 minutes
Red Pepper Walnut Chutney
This vibrant chutney combines the natural sweetness of red peppers with the richness of walnuts, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your meals. Enjoy it as a condiment or use it as an ingredient in various dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup walnut halves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss red peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a pan, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add roasted red peppers, walnuts, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture is slightly thickened.
5. Let it cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Banana Coconut Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect blend of ripe bananas and creamy coconut, ideal for serving as an accompaniment to various snacks or meals.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the shredded coconut, brown sugar, honey, lime juice, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. With the blender running, slowly add the water and continue blending until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice level to your liking.
6. Transfer the chutney to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spinach Sesame Chutney
This flavorful chutney is a perfect blend of spinach, sesame seeds, and spices, making it an excellent accompaniment to Indian flatbreads or as a dip for snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the fresh spinach leaves, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Cook until the spinach is wilted.
5. Stir in the sesame seeds and lemon juice.
6. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
7. Serve or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fig Honey Chutney
This luscious chutney combines the natural sweetness of figs with the warmth of honey, making it a perfect accompaniment to cheeses, meats, and crackers. With its tangy flavor profile, this chutney is sure to elevate any gathering or snack time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried figs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine figs, honey, apple cider vinegar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in grated ginger and ground cinnamon.
4. Let the chutney cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chutney
Brighten up your meals with this tangy and flavorful Lemon Garlic Chutney! This condiment is perfect for topping naan bread, using as a dip, or adding a burst of citrus flavor to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup honey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
2. Heat over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Stir in cilantro and honey until well combined.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pomegranate Mint Chutney
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with this refreshing pomegranate mint chutney, perfect for topping naan bread or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine pomegranate juice, mint leaves, onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Stir in lemon juice and salt to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (blending time)
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper to your desired level of spiciness.
– Use fresh pomegranate seeds instead of juice for a chunkier texture.
– This chutney is best consumed within 1 week, so make it just before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Pomegranate Mint Chutney!
Avocado Lime Chutney
A refreshing and flavorful condiment perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip for vegetables. This Avocado Lime Chutney is a twist on traditional chutneys, with the creaminess of avocados and the brightness of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add lime juice, cilantro, and garlic to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This chutney is ready in no time.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 exotic chutney recipes! From sweet and tangy Mango Ginger Chutney to spicy Garlic Chili Chutney, there’s something for every palate. Try combining the flavors of India with Coconut Coriander Chutney or add a Middle Eastern twist with Tamarind Date Chutney. Sweet treats await with Apple Cinnamon Chutney and Peach Basil Chutney. Whether you’re looking to elevate your snacks, meals, or even cocktails, these flavorful chutneys are sure to impress.
