Ingredients
- Tamarind pulp: 100g
- Dates (seedless): 150g
- Jaggery (or brown sugar): 50g
- Water: 200ml
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Ground ginger: 1/2 teaspoon
- Red chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Per serving
Calories: 150 kcal
Proteins: 1 g
Fats: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Method
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In a medium-sized saucepan, add the tamarind pulp and water. Bring it to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This will help soften the tamarind and extract its flavor.
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While the tamarind is simmering, chop the dates into small pieces for easier blending.
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After 10 minutes, remove the tamarind mixture from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Then, using a strainer, extract the liquid from the tamarind pulp, discarding any solids and seeds.
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Return the strained tamarind liquid to the saucepan, and add the chopped dates and jaggery (or brown sugar). Stir well to combine.
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Place the saucepan back on the stove over low heat. Cook the mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dates and jaggery have dissolved and the chutney reaches a thicker consistency.
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Add the ground cumin, ground ginger, red chili powder, and salt to the saucepan. Mix everything together and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Once the chutney has thickened and the spices are well incorporated, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the chutney cool completely.
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Transfer the cooled chutney to a blender or food processor and blend until you achieve a smooth and silky texture. You can add a little water if the chutney is too thick.
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Taste the chutney and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more salt, sugar, or spices as desired.
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Pour the prepared tamarind date chutney into a clean, airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
The sauce is served with various Indian snacks and appetizers like samosas, pakoras, chaats, and kebabs. It adds a delightful sweet and tangy flavor to these dishes, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Indian tamarind date chutney is a versatile and delicious sauce that perfectly balances the sweetness of dates with the tanginess of tamarind. It offers a unique blend of flavors that complements a wide range of dishes, making it a popular condiment in Indian cuisine.
Facts about the sauce:
- Tamarind date chutney is a classic Indian condiment, often used in street food and traditional snacks.
- The combination of tamarind and dates provides a harmonious balance of sweet and sour tastes, creating a unique flavor profile.
- The chutney is rich in natural sugars from dates and jaggery, providing energy and a sweet taste without the need for refined sugars.
- The tamarind in the chutney contains various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to its nutritional value.
- This sauce is relatively easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks, allowing you to enjoy its flavors over time.