Urad Dal Chutney – Side Dish for Idli/Dosa

When you want something that’s a little different from the traditional coconut or coriander chutneys, this Urad Dal Chutney steps in as a perfect side dish for idlis and dosas. Since this is a no coconut chutney, it can be prepared in larger quantities and refrigerated – typically for up to a week. The red chillies and tamarind make a spicy and tangy combination and the dish attains balance. This chutney makes me breeze through a work week if I have idlis or dosas in my breakfast plan.
Recipe Details :
Serves: 4 pax
Time: 15 mins
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients :

• 1/4 cup urad dal
• A small ball of tamarind
• 3 red chillies
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 1 garlic pod, skin peeled (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tsp oil

• In a pan, add the oil and a pinch of asafoetida. Stir for a bit and then add the urad dal, red chilli and tamarind. Sauté the dal on a low flame till it turns golden brown. Then switch off the flame and remove this aside on a plate to cool.
• In the same pan, add the chopped onions and garlic and cook them till the onions turn brown. Then switch off the flame.
• Now allow both sets of roasted items to cool completely.
• Then put these items into a mixer. Add salt and grind into a smooth paste. Add water depending on the consistency you want and your chutney is ready.
• Finally temper the chutney in sesame oil with mustard seeds, urad dal and a single red chilli just before serving.