Coriander Chutney
A vibrant, fresh green chutney made with cilantro, mint, and a hint of spice. This classic Indian condiment is the perfect zesty accompaniment to samosas, chaat, and sandwiches.
For 8 servings
Prepare the Herbs (3 minutes): Thoroughly wash the coriander and mint leaves under cold running water. Drain well. Include the tender coriander stems as they are packed with flavor. Roughly chop the herbs.
Load the Blender (2 minutes): In a high-speed blender or a small grinder jar, combine the washed coriander, mint leaves, green chilies, peeled ginger, garlic (if using), roasted chana dal, cumin seeds, salt, sugar, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Blend to a Smooth Paste (4 minutes): Secure the lid and blend the ingredients. Add 1 tablespoon of ice-cold water at a time, only as needed, to help the blades move and achieve a smooth consistency. Scrape down the sides of the jar periodically to ensure everything is blended evenly. Avoid adding too much water.
Taste and Serve (1 minute): Transfer the chutney to a serving bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary—add more salt for flavor, lemon juice for tang, or a pinch of sugar to balance the heat. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a vibrant green color that lasts, use ice-cold water or even an ice cube while blending. This prevents the heat from the blender from oxidizing the herbs.
- 2Don't discard the tender coriander stems! They are packed with flavor and contribute to the chutney's texture.
- 3To make a thicker, spreadable chutney for sandwiches, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted roasted peanuts or a small slice of white bread (crusts removed) while blending.
- 4Store the chutney in an airtight glass jar. Pouring a very thin layer of neutral oil on top before sealing can help prevent browning and extend its freshness.
- 5Freeze extra chutney in an ice cube tray for long-term storage. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag. You can thaw a cube whenever you need it.
Adapt it for your goals.
Creamy Chutney
Add 2-3 tablespoons of plain yogurt or coconut milk for a creamier texture, perfect for wraps or as a dip.
Nutty ChutneyNutty Chutney
Incorporate 2 tablespoons of roasted peanuts or cashews while blending for a richer, nutty flavor and thicker consistency.
No Garlic/GingerNo Garlic/Ginger
For a simpler, Jain-friendly version, omit the ginger and garlic. The chutney will be lighter and focus more on the fresh herbs.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
For extra heat, add an additional green chili or a small piece of a spicier variety like bird's eye chili.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Coriander and mint are loaded with antioxidants that help fight free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Aids Digestion
Ingredients like ginger, cumin, and coriander are well-known for their digestive properties, helping to soothe the stomach and improve gut health.
Boosts Immunity
The high Vitamin C content from lemon juice and coriander, combined with the antibacterial properties of garlic and ginger, helps strengthen the immune system.
Detoxifying Properties
Coriander is believed to help the body detoxify by binding to heavy metals and flushing them out, promoting overall wellness.
Frequently asked questions
A 2-tablespoon serving has approximately 15-25 calories, making it a very low-calorie and flavorful condiment.
