This Cilantro Coconut Chutney is a vibrant south-Indian condiment that's easy to make in 15 minutes, and is the perfect accompaniment with idli, dosa, vada and uttapam.
In the following order, add cilantro, green chili, ginger, grated coconut and salt in the blender. Start by adding ½ cup water and blend. (if using Blendtec, hit the smoothie button).
Add more water as needed through the pourer while blending, until it blends to a smooth texture. Transfer to a serving bowl.
Prepare Tadka (Tempering)
Heat a small fry-pan on medium heat. When hot, add oil, heeng, mustard seeds and urad dal. Stir and cook until the urad dal turns golden brown and mustard seeds pop. Stir in curry leaves and turn off the heat.
Add Tadka to Chutney
Pour the tempering over the chutney and mix. Serve at room temperature or cold, with your favorite south-Indian entree, like idli, dosa or uttapam.
Notes
Trim off the bottom 2-inches of the cilantro stem. The bottom portion of the stems has a woody taste and is not very palatable. Add the remaining leaves and light green stems to the blender.
For a mild flavor, remove the seeds and stems from the chili pepper. Alternatively, remove only half for medium or keep them all intact for spicy.
For best results, use freshly grated coconut. Look for it in the prepped produce section of most grocery stores. If fresh is unavailable, my next preference is frozen grated coconut. Thaw it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before using.
Add the ingredients in the order listed in the recipe. This creates a better emulsion and makes it easier on the blade of your blender.
Start with ½ cup water and add more as needed. Add water, 1 Tablespoon at a time, through the pourer while blending, until it blends to your desired consistency.
For a little tang, feel free to add a few teaspoons fresh lime/lemon juice. Add as much or as little as needed.
Serve cold. Allow to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes and serve alongside sambar, idli, dosa, uttapam and vada.
Refrigerate the chutney in an airtight container for up to one week. Or freeze for up to 3 weeks and thaw overnight in the fridge.
Note: The nutrition facts below are my estimates. If you are following any diet plan, I recommend cross-checking with your preferred nutrition calculator.