As the temperature drops in winter, taste buds naturally lean towards bold and warming flavours. Garlic, with its sharp taste and numerous health benefits, often takes centre stage in many kitchens during the colder months. Incorporating garlic chutneys into meals can elevate flavours while adding warmth and zest to every bite.
Video Credits: Divya's Super Kitchen/ YouTube
Each chutney offers a unique taste and texture, making it a perfect accompaniment for a variety of dishes. Whether enjoyed with parathas, rice, or snacks, garlic chutneys are both versatile and simple to prepare. Here are seven distinct garlic chutneys to explore this winter.
Simple Garlic Chutney
This chutney is a straightforward recipe that highlights the natural boldness of garlic. Made with garlic, dried red chillies, and vinegar, it packs a spicy punch. The vinegar adds a slight tang, balancing the heat from the chillies. Blend the ingredients with a pinch of salt to create a smooth consistency. This chutney pairs well with rice, vegetables, or meats and can even be used as a base for stir-fries or curries. It’s quick to prepare and enhances the flavour of any meal instantly.
Rajasthani Lehsun Chutney
Rajasthani cuisine is known for its robust and spicy flavours, and this traditional garlic chutney is no exception. The chutney combines garlic, red chillies, ajwain (carom seeds), cumin seeds, and mustard seeds, offering a delightful burst of earthy and aromatic notes. The ingredients are sautéed in oil and blended into a paste. Serve this chutney with bajra rotis, parathas, or dal-baati for an authentic Rajasthani meal. Its bold flavour and warming spices make it perfect for cold winter days.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Maharashtrian Garlic Chutney
This dry chutney, also called "Lasun Chutney," is a Maharashtrian classic with a coarse texture. Made with roasted garlic, red chillies, peanuts, and desiccated coconut, it has a nutty and spicy profile. The ingredients are roasted individually and ground together with salt to form a coarse powder. This chutney is versatile and can be sprinkled over vada pav, used as a topping for curries, or mixed with oil to serve as a dip. Its shelf life and ease of preparation make it a winter favourite.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Tawa Lehsun Mirch Chutney
This chutney offers a unique twist with the use of green chillies instead of red ones. The ingredients, including garlic, green chillies, mustard oil, and kalonji (nigella seeds), are sautéed on a tawa (flat griddle) to bring out their flavours. The resulting chutney is bold, tangy, and slightly smoky. It pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted vegetables and can also be served with stuffed parathas. Its vibrant flavour makes it an excellent condiment for hearty winter meals.
Tomato Garlic Chutney
Tomato Garlic Chutney combines the tangy sweetness of tomatoes with the pungency of garlic to create a versatile condiment. Tomatoes are sautéed with garlic, red chillies, and a blend of spices before being blended into a smooth chutney. This recipe is particularly popular in South Indian cuisine and pairs perfectly with idlis, dosas, and vadas. The chutney’s tangy and spicy profile also complements flatbreads and rice dishes, making it a must-try during winter.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Onion Garlic Chutney
This chutney is a harmonious blend of garlic, onions, and a variety of spices. The onions add sweetness and depth to the chutney, while the garlic provides a robust kick. The ingredients are sautéed until golden and then ground into a paste. This chutney pairs well with stuffed parathas, bread rolls, or even as a spread for sandwiches. Its rich flavour and extended shelf life make it a practical addition to your winter pantry.
Green Garlic Chutney
Green garlic, a seasonal delicacy available in winter, takes centre stage in this chutney. Fresh green garlic stalks are blended with coriander leaves, green chillies, and lemon juice to create a vibrant and refreshing chutney. The mild flavour of green garlic makes it a unique addition to winter meals. Serve this chutney with snacks like pakoras or samosas or use it as a dip for roasted vegetables. Its fresh and zesty taste is sure to brighten up your winter table.