Tomato chutney is a staple in Indian cuisine, celebrated for its tangy, spicy, and mildly sweet flavors that complement a wide range of dishes.

This versatile condiment is enjoyed across the country and is especially popular in South India, where it's served with dosas, idlis, and other breakfast staples.

Made from ripe tomatoes cooked with spices and aromatics, tomato chutney adds a burst of flavor and color to any meal.

The Essence of Tomato Chutney

Indian tomato chutney is known for its vibrant taste and unique combination of ingredients. Fresh, juicy tomatoes are cooked down with a mix of spices, lending a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that balances out the heat from chilies and spices.

Versatility at its Best: Tomato chutney can be customized to suit different flavor preferences—make it spicy, tangy, or even a bit sweet. It's versatile enough to pair with almost any dish!

Regional Variations: While the basic ingredients remain the same, the preparation of tomato chutney varies across Indian regions. In the south, coconut and curry leaves are often added, while in the north, it might include ginger and garlic for added flavor depth.

How to Make Tomato Chutney at Home

Creating tomato chutney at home is a straightforward process. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of simmering, you can whip up this delicious chutney in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients:

2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped

1-2 green chilies, chopped

1/2 onion, chopped

1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Let's Start Making:

Heat the oil in a pan on medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds, letting them splutter.

Sauté the onion until translucent, then add green chilies and stir for another minute.

Add tomatoes to the pan along with turmeric and red chili powder. Cook until the tomatoes soften and start breaking down.

Season with salt and mash the tomatoes lightly, adjusting for consistency.

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Options

With South Indian Breakfast: Tomato chutney is a classic accompaniment to South Indian breakfasts like idli, dosa, and uttapam. The tangy flavors of the chutney balance beautifully with the savory, mild taste of these dishes.

As a Side for Rice and Rotis: Enjoy tomato chutney as a side dish with rice, chapati, or even as a spread in wraps.

Snack Dip: Tomato chutney makes a flavorful dip for snacks like pakoras, samosas, or even breadsticks.

Variations

Garlic Tomato Chutney: Add a few cloves of garlic for a pungent, savory kick.

Spicy Tomato Chutney: Increase the green chilies or add a pinch of black pepper for extra heat.

Coconut Tomato Chutney: Mix in freshly grated coconut to add a rich, creamy texture that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Dear Lykkers, this beloved chutney is a vibrant part of Indian cuisine, easy to make and bursting with flavor. Perfect for adding a zing to any meal, tomato chutney is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the heart of Indian food culture.