7 Indian Chutney Recipes

Indian chutneys are the perfect way to add a pop of flavor to any meal. Whether you’re pairing them with dosa, idli, or pakoras or simply spreading them on a sandwich, chutneys bring an irresistible balance of tanginess, spice, and sweetness.

These vibrant condiments aren’t just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile and quick to make. From fresh herbs and vegetables to pantry staples like tamarind and spices, chutneys can be made with almost anything you have on hand.

Whether you’re a fan of the creamy nuttiness of coconut chutney or the bold tang of tamarind chutney, there’s something here for every taste. This collection of recipes will walk you through how to make these beloved Indian side dishes, all vegan-friendly and bursting with flavor.

Let’s explore these chutney recipes and bring a burst of color and flavor to your meals!

1. Tomato Chutney

Tomato chutney is a tangy and slightly spicy condiment that pairs beautifully with South Indian breakfasts like dosa, idli, and uttapam. Its rich tomato base is flavored with spices like mustard seeds and curry leaves, making it a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory.

Not just limited to traditional dishes, this chutney can also be used as a spread for sandwiches or a dip for pakoras and fritters. Its bold, punchy flavor makes even simple plain rice an exciting dish.

Ingredients: Ripe tomatoes, dried red chilies, mustard seeds, curry leaves, tamarind, jaggery, oil, and salt.

Method: Heat oil in a pan and sauté dried chilies and curry leaves until aromatic. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften. Mix in tamarind, jaggery, and salt, then blend the mixture into a smooth paste. Finish with a tempered mix of mustard seeds and curry leaves.

2. Cilantro Chutney

Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, cilantro chutney is one of the most versatile condiments in Indian cuisine. Its bright green color and zesty taste make it a favorite for snacks, sandwiches, and even as a marinade for vegetables.

The combination of fresh cilantro, green chilies, lime juice, and cumin creates a chutney that’s mildly spicy and tangy. It’s a fantastic way to add a burst of flavor to your dishes.

Ingredients: Fresh cilantro, green chilies, ginger, lime juice, cumin, sugar, and salt.

Method: Blend cilantro, green chilies, ginger, lime juice, and cumin with a little water until smooth. Season with sugar and salt to taste. This chutney stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week.

3. Tamil Nadu Coconut Chutney

This creamy coconut chutney is a staple of South Indian cuisine, served alongside dosa, idli, and vada. Made with freshly grated coconut, green chilies, and tempered spices, it’s a dish that balances rich creaminess with a hint of spice.

The real magic comes from the tempering of mustard seeds, urad dal, and curry leaves, which add a crunch and aromatic finish to this silky chutney.

Ingredients: Freshly grated coconut, green chilies, ginger, tamarind, curry leaves, urad dal, mustard seeds, oil, and (optional) vegan hing.

Method: Blend coconut, green chilies, ginger, and tamarind with a little water into a thick paste. In a small pan, heat oil and temper mustard seeds, curry leaves, urad dal, and vegan hing (if using). Pour the tempered mixture over the chutney and serve.

4. Caramelized Red Onion Chutney

Sweet, savory, and deeply flavorful, caramelized red onion chutney is a versatile condiment that pairs wonderfully with curries, flatbreads, or even vegan cheeses. The natural sweetness of onions is enhanced by slow caramelization, balanced with a hint of vinegar and spices.

This chutney is perfect as a side dish or as a topping for sandwiches, wraps, or burgers.

Ingredients: Red onions, sugar, vinegar, cumin, coriander, oil, and salt.

Method: Heat oil in a pan and sauté sliced red onions until golden and caramelized. Stir in sugar, vinegar, and spices, then cook until thickened. Cool before serving.

5. Pudina Chutney (Mint Chutney)

Mint chutney, also known as pudina chutney, is a refreshing and flavorful side that can elevate any meal. With its fresh minty taste and tangy lime notes, it’s perfect for appetizers like samosas, pakoras, and kebabs.

This chutney is incredibly quick to make and uses simple ingredients, making it a go-to for busy days.

Ingredients: Fresh mint, cilantro, green chilies, lime juice, cumin, and salt.

Method: Blend mint, cilantro, green chilies, and lime juice into a smooth paste with a little water. Season with cumin and salt. For extra zest, you can add a pinch of chaat masala.

6. Tamarind Chutney (Imli Chutney)

This sweet and tangy chutney is a classic accompaniment for snacks like samosas, pakoras, and chaat. Tamarind pulp, dates, and jaggery combine to create a rich, sticky chutney with a balanced flavor profile.

Made in an Instant Pot, this recipe is quick, easy, and free of refined sugars, making it a healthier take on the traditional version.

Ingredients: Tamarind pulp, vegan-certified jaggery (or coconut sugar), dates, cumin, ginger powder, and salt.

Method: Combine tamarind pulp, vegan jaggery or coconut sugar, dates, and spices in the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then blend into a smooth sauce.

7. Ridge Gourd Peel Chutney (Beerakaya Pachadi)

Sustainability meets deliciousness in this ridge gourd peel chutney. By using the peels of ridge gourd, you create a chutney that’s fresh, flavorful, and eco-friendly.

This recipe is a South Indian favorite, perfect for pairing with dosa, idli, or even hot steamed rice.

Ingredients: Ridge gourd peels, tamarind, curry leaves, red chilies, urad dal, and oil.

Method: Sauté ridge gourd peels with curry leaves, red chilies, and urad dal. Blend with tamarind and salt into a coarse paste. Serve fresh with your favorite dishes.

Final Thoughts

Indian chutneys are more than just condiments—they’re a celebration of bold, vibrant flavors that can transform any meal.

From the tangy punch of tamarind chutney to the creamy richness of coconut chutney, each recipe brings something unique to the table.

Experiment with these chutneys, mix and match them with your meals, or simply enjoy them as dips and spreads. With their endless versatility and easy preparation, chutneys are a must-have addition to your culinary repertoire.

So grab your ingredients, whip up a batch, and savor the magic of these incredible Indian chutney recipes!