Peanut Chutney
Peanut chutney is a delicious and versatile South Indian condiment made from roasted peanuts. It’s a perfect side dish for idli, dosa, uttapam, vada, or even rice. With a creamy texture and a nutty, mildly spicy flavor, this chutney can be prepared in just a few minutes. If you’re looking for a quick and tasty chutney without coconut, this instant peanut chutney is an excellent choice.
Why Peanut Chutney?
Unlike coconut chutney, which can spoil quickly, peanut chutney stays fresh for longer and doesn’t require refrigeration immediately. It’s also rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a wholesome addition to any meal. Moreover, the ingredients are commonly available in most kitchens.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw peanuts
- 2 to 3 dried red chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1 small onion (optional for added flavor)
- 1 to 2 garlic cloves
- A small piece of tamarind or ½ tsp tamarind paste
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
For Tempering (optional but recommended)
- 1 tsp oil
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- ½ tsp urad dal (black gram)
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- A few curry leaves
Instructions:
- Roast the peanuts:
Heat a pan and dry roast the peanuts on medium flame until they turn golden brown and the skin starts to peel. Let them cool. You can remove the skin by rubbing them between your palms or blend them with the skin for a more rustic flavor. - Prepare the spice mix:
In the same pan, add a few drops of oil and roast the dried red chilies, garlic cloves, and optional chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. - Grind the chutney:
In a blender, add roasted peanuts, red chilies, garlic, tamarind, and salt. Add about ½ cup of water and grind to a smooth or slightly coarse paste, depending on your preference. Adjust water to reach your desired consistency. - Tempering (optional):
In a small pan, heat a teaspoon of oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add urad dal, curry leaves, and a pinch of hing. Fry until golden and aromatic. Pour this tempering over the chutney.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the peanut chutney with hot idlis or crispy dosas.
- Use it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps.
- Pair it with steamed rice and a drizzle of ghee for a simple meal.
Tips
- You can skip garlic or onions if you prefer a sattvic (no onion-no garlic) version.
- To enhance flavor, you can add a few coriander leaves while grinding.
- If you want a spicier version, add green chilies along with red chilies.
This instant peanut chutney is a simple yet flavorful accompaniment that takes less than 10 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for busy mornings or quick meals. Packed with taste and nutrition, it’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen.
