Fresh Coconut Chutney

Ingredients

For the Chutney

• 1 cup fresh grated coconut (or frozen unsweetened coconut)
• 2 tablespoons roasted chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 2-3 green chilies, roughly chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1-inch piece ginger, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
• 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice

For the Tempering

• 1 tablespoon oil (coconut oil preferred)
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram)
• 1-2 dried red chilies, broken into pieces
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• Pinch of asafoetida (hing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chutney Base:
   • In a blender or food processor, combine coconut, roasted chana dal, green chilies, ginger, and cilantro
   • Add salt and blend with a little water to start
   • Gradually add more water until you achieve a smooth, slightly thick consistency
   • Transfer to a serving bowl
   • Stir in lemon juice
2. Prepare the Tempering:
   • Heat oil in a small pan over medium heat
   • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter
   • Add urad dal and fry until it turns light golden brown
   • Add dried red chilies, curry leaves, and asafoetida
   • Fry for 10-15 seconds until the curry leaves become crisp
   • Immediately pour this tempering over the prepared chutney
   • Stir to mix the flavors
3. Serving:
   • Serve as an accompaniment to idli, dosa, vada, or other South Indian dishes
   • Can be served immediately or chilled

Variations

• Coconut-Mint Chutney: Add a handful of fresh mint leaves when blending
• Coconut-Coriander Chutney: Increase cilantro to 1/2 cup for a more herbal flavor
• Coconut-Tomato Chutney: Add 1 medium tomato while blending
• Coconut-Garlic Chutney: Add 3-4 garlic cloves for a more pungent flavor

Notes

Fresh coconut gives the best flavor, but frozen unsweetened coconut works well too. For a creamier texture, you can add 2 tablespoons of yogurt. The chutney can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it thickens upon refrigeration, simply add a little water and mix well before serving.