Yahoo Finance Punch of flavour: 7 Indian chutneys and their health benefits
Indian chutneys are a fantastic way to add flavour to your food. They not only provide an excellent dining experience, but they can also assist you in losing weight. The health benefits of chutney consumption are limited, but the flavour is exceptional. Read on to discover more about some of the different types of Indian chutney and its health benefits.
Mint-coriander chutney
Mint-coriander chutney is one of the most popular and tasty chutneys prepared in the traditional manner of Bengali cuisine. This spicy and tangy chutney is made by blending green coriander, mint leaves, cumin, mint juice, salt and turmeric. The taste of this fantastic chutney is so irresistible that it attracts people not only with its mouth-watering taste but also because of its delectable aroma. Apart from this, the entire flavourful chutney is a powerhouse of all essential minerals, antioxidants and vitamins.
Garlic chutney
Garlic chutneys are known as the 'king of chutneys' for many Indian cuisines. Garlic pods are stated to be helpful against heart diseases, lowering cholesterol level, keeping diabetes at bay and levelling the blood-pressure. And to make it more worthwhile, you can add-on coconut, roasted peanuts and dry red chillies and churn it to a smooth paste, acting as a great accompaniment with the main meals.
Tomato chutney
Tomato chutneys are a popular type of spicy chutney, prepared with tomatoes as the main ingredient, usually a side dish with an Indian meal. Spicy and tangy, this chutney can be made in several different ways, depending on what type of tomatoes you use and how you drive it. Many people prefer to use fresh tomatoes in their chutneys, as it contains Lycopene, a primary cell-protecting ingredient, from getting damaged further. Also, if you're looking for a way to get a burst of vitamin C, B and E along with minerals like potassium, try making a tomato chutney with some added jaggery – and enjoy its health benefits.
Coconut chutney
Coconut chutney is an integral part of Indian cuisine and famous worldwide for its incomparable 'nutty and grainy' flavouring. Coconut chutney consists of MCTs, medium-chain triglycerides and is simply a Southern Indian side dish full of fibre, copper, iron and phosphorus. The condiments are prepared using coconut meat ground with spices like coriander and other herbs like green chillies. They are often served along with rice and other dishes, making the entire meal nutritious.
Peanut chutney
Peanut chutney is a mild spicy side dish used with many popular snack foods and hot breakfast items. Peanuts are high in calories and act as the main ingredient of this delicious chutney, prepared by blending roasted peanuts, tomatoes, garlic, then adding salt and sugar, and sometimes also black pepper. The entire dish is low in carbs and rich in minerals, vitamins and antioxidants.
Raw-mango chutney
Raw mango chutney is made from unripe, ripe mangoes. Green, ripe mangoes tend to be more challenging and much more fibrous, power-packed with Vitamin A, C and E. It acts as an immense source of boosting antioxidants and minerals. And their yellow counterparts make a great natural, tangy, spicy chutney pairing perfectly with curries or other spicy dishes, especially during spring to summer seasons.
Tamarind Chutney
Tamarind Chutney is an excellent fruit to add to your diet. This is not only because of its numerous health benefits but also because of the pleasant 'sweet and sour' flavour. This sour fruit comes loaded with Vitamin B1, B2, B3 and B5 while being exceptionally rich in flavonoids. The tamarind pulp, when added with ginger powder and asafoetida, acts as an excellent antioxidant.
Over the years, different types of Indian chutneys have been discovered. Keep a note of these multiple recipes and enjoy all its health benefits. And you should try it if you haven't already; you won't be disappointed.
