No-Sugar Amla-Mint Chutney
This vibrant, no-sugar Amla-Mint Chutney is a refreshing and zesty condiment that perfectly balances the tartness of Indian gooseberries with the coolness of mint and the zing of ginger, making it an ideal accompaniment to any meal.
For 4 servings
Prepare Amla: Wash the amla berries thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut around the seed to separate the flesh into small pieces. Discard the seeds.
Prepare Herbs & Ginger: Wash cilantro and mint leaves well, then roughly chop them. Peel and roughly chop the ginger. If using green chili, wash and roughly chop it.
Combine Ingredients: In a blender jar, combine the chopped amla, cilantro, mint leaves, ginger, green chili, roasted cumin powder (if using), black salt, and regular salt.
Blend Initial: Start blending the mixture without adding water first. Scrape down the sides of the blender jar as needed to ensure everything is incorporated.
Achieve Consistency: Gradually add 2-4 tablespoons of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, blending until you achieve a smooth, thick chutney consistency. Avoid adding too much water at once to prevent it from becoming too runny.
Adjust Flavor: Taste the chutney and adjust salt, black salt, or add a squeeze of fresh lime juice if you desire more tang. Blend briefly again to incorporate.
Serve or Store: Transfer the Amla-Mint Chutney to an airtight container. Serve immediately with your favorite Indian dishes, snacks, or as a spread.
Storage: Store the chutney in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in ice cube trays and then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use Fresh Amla: Always use fresh, firm amla berries for the best flavor and nutritional benefits. Avoid any with soft spots or discoloration.
- 2Adjust Spice Level: The number of green chilies can be adjusted based on your preference for heat. For a milder chutney, use less or deseed the chili.
- 3Prevent Oxidation: Amla can oxidize and turn slightly brownish. To minimize this, add a tiny splash of lime juice during blending and store in an airtight container immediately.
- 4Water Control: Add water very gradually during blending. Too much water will make the chutney runny, while too little might make it difficult to blend smoothly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Garlic Amla Chutney
Add 2-3 cloves of garlic and an extra green chili for a more pungent and spicier kick.
Sweet & Sour Amla ChutneySweet & Sour Amla Chutney
While this recipe is sugar-free, for a variation, a small amount of date paste or jaggery can be added to balance the tartness with sweetness.
Smoky Amla ChutneySmoky Amla Chutney
Incorporate a small piece of smoked chili (like chipotle) or a pinch of smoked paprika for a unique smoky depth.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Amla is one of the richest natural sources of Vitamin C, boosting immunity and acting as a powerful antioxidant.
Aids Digestion
Both amla and ginger are known to stimulate digestive enzymes, helping to improve digestion and alleviate issues like bloating.
Detoxifying Properties
Mint and cilantro contribute to the body's natural detoxification processes, while amla supports liver health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use frozen amla, but ensure it's thawed completely before blending. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be good.
