Savory Amla & Mint Chutney
A vibrant, sugar-free Indian chutney featuring the unique tartness of amla (Indian gooseberry) balanced with fresh mint and cilantro, enhanced by aromatic ginger, garlic, and spices. It's a zesty, healthy accompaniment to any meal.
For 6 servings
Wash the amla thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut around the seed in segments, discarding the hard central seed. Roughly chop the amla pieces.
Wash cilantro and mint leaves well; pat dry. Roughly chop the cilantro. Peel and roughly chop the fresh ginger and garlic clove. Deseed the green chili if you prefer less heat, then roughly chop it.
Transfer the chopped amla, cilantro, mint leaves, green chili, ginger, garlic, roasted cumin powder, black salt, and sea salt into a small blender jar or food processor.
Add 2 tablespoons of cold water. Blend on high speed, scraping down the sides as needed, until a coarse, chunky paste forms.
If the chutney is too thick or the blender is struggling, add 1-2 additional tablespoons of water, one at a time, and continue blending until you reach your desired consistency – typically a coarse, spreadable paste. Avoid over-blending to prevent it from becoming too watery or losing texture.
Taste the chutney and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, black salt for tang, or green chili for extra heat.
Transfer the Savory Amla & Mint Chutney to an airtight container. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 5-7 days. The flavors will meld and deepen over time.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Adjust Heat:** The spice level can be easily customized. For a milder chutney, deseed the green chili completely or use half. For more heat, leave the seeds in or add an extra chili.
- 2**Fresh Amla is Key:** Use firm, blemish-free Indian gooseberries (amla) for the best flavor and texture. Avoid soft or discolored amla.
- 3**Don't Over-Blend:** Blend just until a coarse paste forms. Over-blending can make the chutney too watery or, in some cases, slightly slimy due to the amla's texture.
- 4**Storage:** Store the chutney in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator. It tastes best when consumed within 5-7 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Garlic & Ginger Boost
Increase the quantities of fresh ginger and garlic to 1.5 inches and 2 cloves, respectively, for a more pungent and aromatic chutney.
Smoky DepthSmoky Depth
Add a small piece of roasted tomato or a pinch of smoked paprika to the blend for a subtle smoky undertone that complements the tangy amla.
Creamy TextureCreamy Texture
For a slightly creamier and richer chutney, add 2-3 tablespoons of grated fresh coconut or a small handful of soaked cashews (about 10-12) before blending.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Amla (Indian gooseberry) is an exceptional source of Vitamin C, boosting immunity and acting as a powerful antioxidant.
Digestive Aid
Mint, ginger, and cumin are known for their digestive properties, helping to soothe the stomach and improve nutrient absorption.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Packed with antioxidants from amla, cilantro, and mint, this chutney helps combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh amla is preferred for its texture and vibrant flavor, you can use frozen amla if fresh is unavailable. Thaw it completely before using and adjust the water quantity as frozen amla tends to release more moisture.
