The Versatile Green Chutney

Versatile because it can be used in so many different ways. It can be served as an accompaniment with savoury items such as Bhajiyas, Samosas, Wadas, Fries and so on. It is a must when making Chaat items such as Sev Puri, Dahi Bata Puri etc. The Sandwiches sold on the streets of Bombay, which otherwise have the same basic ingredients, are made famous by this very Chutney, adding that special touch to the bread slices.

It is also versatile because, keeping the basic ingredients intact, one can play around with the ingredients, adding some or even changing  the quantity of each item depending on personal preferences. But Coriander remains the basic central ingredient.

Although the classic name for this is Dhaniya Pudine ki chutney (Coriander-Mint Chutney), I even skip the Pudina (Mint) sometimes but the chutney turns out to be delicious all the same. This time I had almost all the classic ingredients with me.

I have recently started to put the huge freezer (bigger than the refrigerator itself!) to good use. I make this chutney in bulk whenever I lay my hands on a fresh bunch of Dhaniya & Mint and then freeze it small quantities (each equal to the amount I use for a single time). Whenever I need the chutney, I just take out one of the small containers and thaw it in the fridge overnight. Another reason for making this in bulk is the same old problem of my Mixer, which is not all suitable for grinding in small quantities!

Dhaniya Pudine ki Chutney

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh Coriander leaves
• 1/4 cup Mint leaves
• 2-3 cloves of Garlic
• 2" piece of Ginger
• 5-6 Green Chillies
• 1/4 cup grated coconut (Optional)
• 2 tblsp Lime Juice
• 1/2 tsp Sugar
• Salt

Method:

Combine all the ingredients and grind them using a little water as required.

The grated coconut is optional but it gives volume to the chutney and also enhances the taste. I sometimes use ground Dalia (roasted split chickpea) in place of the coconut and it serves the same purpose while changing the taste a bit.

The number of green chillies can be adjusted depending on the spice level you are comfortable with.

The simplest ay to enjoy this chutney is to make a Chutney Sandwich. Take two slices of bread and apply butter on both. Spread the chutney on one slice and a little Tomato ketchup on the other. Place one slice on the other face down and take a bite!

This Chutney will reach Siri's Corner just in time for this month's Herb Mania - Coriander. Herb Mania is an event started by Dee of Ammalu's Kitchen.