Why You’ll Love Moringa Chutney Recipe
This moringa chutney is not only tasty but also incredibly healthy. Moringa leaves are rich in iron, calcium, vitamins A and C, and powerful antioxidants. The chutney is easy to make, takes just a few minutes to prepare, and uses simple, readily available ingredients. Its versatility makes it a go-to accompaniment for many Indian meals, and it’s a great way to introduce moringa to your family in a flavorful form.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
moringa leaves (fresh)
fresh grated coconut
green chilies
ginger
garlic cloves
tamarind pulp or lemon juice
salt
mustard seeds
urad dal (optional)
curry leaves
oil (preferably coconut or any neutral oil)
water (as needed for blending)
Directions
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Wash and clean the moringa leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or stems.
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In a pan, heat a small amount of oil and sauté green chilies, ginger, and garlic until aromatic.
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Add the moringa leaves and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they wilt slightly.
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Allow the mixture to cool.
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In a blender, combine the sautéed moringa mixture with grated coconut, tamarind pulp or lemon juice, and salt. Add water gradually and blend to a smooth consistency.
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In a small pan, prepare the tempering: heat oil, add mustard seeds, urad dal, and curry leaves. Let them splutter.
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Pour the tempering over the chutney and mix well.
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Serve fresh with rice, dosa, or your favorite South Indian dishes.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Add nuts: Blend in roasted peanuts or cashews for a richer flavor and thicker texture.
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Spicy version: Increase the number of green chilies or add a dried red chili to the tempering.
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Onion twist: Sauté a small onion along with the chilies and garlic for an extra depth of flavor.
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No coconut: For a coconut-free version, use roasted Bengal gram (chana dal) instead.
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Tangy note: Adjust the tanginess by adding more tamarind or a bit of yogurt.
Storage/Reheating
Store moringa chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best taste, bring it to room temperature before serving.
Reheating is generally not recommended, as chutney is typically served fresh or at room temperature.
If needed, gently warm it on low heat without boiling.
FAQs
What does moringa chutney taste like?
It has an earthy, slightly bitter taste balanced by the spice from chilies, tang from tamarind or lemon, and richness from coconut.
Can I use dried moringa leaves?
Fresh moringa leaves are preferred for taste and texture, but dried leaves can be used if soaked briefly in warm water and sautéed properly.
Is moringa chutney healthy?
Yes, it is packed with nutrients like iron, calcium, antioxidants, and vitamins, making it a healthy addition to your meals.
Can I make this chutney without coconut?
Yes, you can substitute coconut with roasted chana dal or nuts like cashews for a similar creamy texture.
What dishes pair well with moringa chutney?
It goes great with idli, dosa, rice, chapati, or even as a sandwich spread.
Can I freeze moringa chutney?
Freezing is not ideal as the texture and taste might change. It’s best consumed fresh or within a few days when refrigerated.
Is this chutney vegan?
Yes, it’s naturally vegan as long as no dairy ingredients are added.
Can kids eat moringa chutney?
Yes, just reduce the spice level. It’s a great way to include moringa in a child’s diet.
How do I reduce the bitterness of moringa leaves?
Blanching or sautéing the leaves briefly helps reduce bitterness. Balancing with tamarind or lemon juice also helps.
Can I make moringa chutney without tempering?
Yes, but tempering adds an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer raw chutneys, skip the tempering and blend the rest.
Conclusion
Moringa chutney is a vibrant, healthy, and easy-to-make condiment that adds both flavor and nutrition to your meals. With a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking, you can enjoy this earthy, tangy chutney with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking to try something new or add more superfoods to your diet, this moringa chutney is a perfect choice.
