### Mango Chutney Recipe: A Traditional Indian Relish with Sweet and Tangy Notes from Green Mango
Mango chutney is a cherished accompaniment in Indian cooking, renowned for its harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy tastes. This adaptable relish, commonly known as aam ki launji or aam ki meethi chatni, is mainly composed of green mangoes and remains a fundamental choice throughout the mango season.
#### Ingredients
– 2 medium green mangoes
– 1 cup jaggery (or sugar)
– 1 teaspoon kalonji (black onion seeds)
– 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon hing (asafoetida)
– 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (or adjust to taste)
– Salt to taste
– 1 cup water
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Mangoes**: Peel the green mangoes and cut them into slightly larger chunks or thin wedges.
2. **Tempering Spices**: In a pan, warm a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Incorporate the black onion seeds, fennel seeds, and asafoetida. Sauté for a minute until aromatic.
3. **Cooking the Mango**: Incorporate the chopped mangoes into the pan and mix thoroughly to ensure they are coated with the tempered spices.
4. **Add Sweetness**: Pour in the water and bring the blend to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and introduce the jaggery (or sugar). Stir until it is fully dissolved.
5. **Simmer**: Add the Kashmiri red chili powder and salt. Let the chutney simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mangoes soften and the mixture attains a chutney-like thickness.
6. **Cool and Store**: After cooking, remove from heat and allow it to cool. Transfer to a clean jar and refrigerate. It can be stored for several weeks.
#### Serving Suggestions
Mango chutney is highly versatile and can be savored in numerous ways:
– As a dip or spread with **parathas**, **roti**, or **mathri**.
– As a condiment alongside grilled meats like chicken or shrimp.
– A zesty addition to sandwiches or wraps.
– Mixed into salads for a sweet and tangy dressing.
– Served with chips or nachos for a delightful snack.
#### Tips for Creating Perfect Mango Chutney
– **Choose the Right Mango**: Opt for medium sour raw mangoes. If they are excessively sour, let them ripen for a couple of days prior to use.
– **Adjust Sweetness**: Sample the chutney while simmering and modify the sweetness to your liking. If substituting sugar for jaggery, commence with 1 1/4 cups and adjust as required.
– **Spice Variations**: Feel free to play around with spices according to your preference. Some variations may include adding ginger or garlic for an additional kick.
Mango chutney is more than just a condiment; it’s a festival of flavors that enhances any meal. Whether you’re relishing it at a family gathering or utilizing it to elevate your everyday meals, this traditional Indian relish is bound to impress.