Can you imagine Indian cuisine without chutneys? Unimaginable, isn’t it? After all, chutneys are what makes all your dull meals alive and sits well with just about any and every meal. The rest of the world may swoon over salsas or dips, Indian chutneys rules the roost for us. The lip-smacking variety of chutneys that makes us add them to anything and everything- right from plain sandwiches to parathas, rice and so much more – makes it a favorite across Indian homes. Way beyond mint or coriander chutney, one look at the south Indian cuisine will tell you how blessed we are for its existence.
The cuisine that boasts of wholesome dosas, idlis and sambar, go beyond coconut chutney in offering us a flavourful range of the accompaniment. While there are many south Indian accompaniments you can try, we go beyond coconut chutney to bring you three of the best south Indian chutneys that you can try at home to take your meals a notch higher. Don't worry, they are quick, easy and do not require any ingredient that you might not find in your kitchen already.
A popular herb from the southern region, gongura (sorrel leaves) is an intrinsic part of Andhra cuisine. The sour flavours of gongura sets it apart and makes it a hot favourite for pickles and chutneys. Pachadi literally meaning 'pounded',and though it looks like a chutney, it can also be consumed along with rice. Gongura pachadi is a popular Andhra recipe
Onion, loads of chillies, hint of garlic and vinegar makes this one a real crowd pleaser. A quick and easy chutney to whip up in no more than 15 minutes, onion chutney goes well with everything from your idli, dosa to vada. The tart of tamarind and fiery red chillies mingles very well with lightly brown onion to give a burst of flavours.
Don’t we love a slight hint of garlic on our meals? This chutney is exactly the hint you need to amp up your meals. Touch of red chillies and vinegar makes it simply irresistible!
So, which of these south Indian delights are you trying next in your kitchen?