When it comes to Indian food, people have a notion that it is a very lengthy & laborious process. And though most of the times it is true, let me tell you that Indian cooking is so versatile and diversified, that you can find some really interesting, yet quick and easy recipes that will make your life easier, without compromising on the taste factor. One such genre of recipes is the Chutneys – or quick dips and spreads that can go well with several main course or side dishes. And this Coconut Chutney is a staple in every South-Indian household. Served as a perfect accompaniment to Idlis, Dosas, Uttapams, Medu Vadas, or any other popular South Indian recipe, this traditional Coconut Chutney recipe is sure to find a permanent place in your fridge, no matter what you cook!
[Recipe & photo courtesy of Dhivya from Chef In You]
My husband loves eating this with Khakharas, and it taste great! Inspired by this act, I have added a few ways to include this in more kid-friendly recipes. Check them out at the end of the post!
South Indian Style Coconut Chutney
Ingredients
1 cup fresh coconut, grated (thaw if using frozen coconut)
1 cup roasted gram dal (dalia/pottu kadalai/chana dal – available in Indian stores)
2-3 green chillies (or as per taste)
1/2 cup curd
salt to taste
To Temper
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp split black gram dal (urad dal)
1-2 dried red chillies (as per taste)
few springs of curry leaves (Available in Indian stores)
a pinch of asafoetida
Method
Soak the roasted gram in water for at least 20 min.
Add all the Ingredients other than the ones mentioned in the Tempering section in a blender and blend them till smooth. In case if its too thick, add more buttermilk till its neither too thick nor too watery.
Now in a tsp of oil, temper the ingredients given in the To temper section till the mustard seeds start popping.
Pour down the temper into the ground mixture and serve. You can also garnish with little cilantro for additional color and taste.
There, a delicious and very tasty Coconut Chutney, ready in no time!
Kid-Friendly Recipe Ideas
This is perfect for a quick dip when eating your Idlis, Dosas or even as a retro spread on toasts and crackers for your kids. Pair it with Green Chutney and good old Ketchup and make a layered tri-color sandwich, or add it to a pancake batter to make Savory Crepes or Pancakes. Your kids will love the idea, and you can get some healthy stuff into their bodies too!
love this chutney, I make it whenever I want to do something really quick…
thanks! feedback from my readers is what keeps me & my team going!!:)
I'm enjoying your posts –you have a lovely blog!