How long does cilantro mint chutney last?

Fresh chutney keeps for up to 1 week refrigerated in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. The flavor remains excellent, though the color may darken slightly after the first day due to oxidation. To minimize discoloration, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before refrigerating.

Can I make mint cilantro chutney without a high-powered blender?

Yes, roughly chop all ingredients before blending and add extra water gradually. Food processors work well, and even immersion blenders can handle this recipe if you chop ingredients finely first. Start with minimal water and add more as needed – it's easier to thin out than to thicken.

What's the best substitute for mint if I can't find fresh?

Use additional cilantro plus a handful of fresh basil for complexity. Fresh parsley also works but changes the flavor profile significantly. Dried mint isn't recommended as it lacks the fresh, bright notes that make this chutney special. In a pinch, frozen mint leaves work better than dried.

How do I prevent chutney from getting watery?

Pat herbs completely dry before blending and add water gradually. Excess moisture is the main culprit for thin chutney. If your chutney turns out too watery, blend in a slice of white bread, a handful of roasted peanuts, or 1-2 tablespoons of coconut flakes to thicken without changing the flavor significantly.

Can I make this chutney oil free?

This recipe is naturally oil-free and doesn't require any added fats. The natural oils in the herbs and spices provide plenty of flavor and help create a smooth texture. If you want extra richness without oil, add a tablespoon of tahini or cashew butter instead.

Cilantro Mint Chutney

Name: Cilantro Mint Chutney
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 bunches fresh cilantro (about 2 cups packed), stems and leaves; 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves (avoid stems); 1-2 green chilies (serrano or jalapeño), adjust to taste; 1 small onion, roughly chopped; 3-4 cloves garlic, peeled; 1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice; 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds or ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1 tablespoon sugar or jaggery (optional, balances heat); 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed for blending)

Description

Fresh Cilantro Mint Chutney is a vibrant green Indian condiment that adds fresh, herby zing to any meal. Perfect for samosas, sandwiches, grilled meats, and as a versatile condiment.

Ingredients

2 bunches fresh cilantro (about 2 cups packed), stems and leaves
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves (avoid stems)
1-2 green chilies (serrano or jalapeño), adjust to taste
1 small onion, roughly chopped
3-4 cloves garlic, peeled
1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled
2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds or ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 tablespoon sugar or jaggery (optional, balances heat)
2-3 tablespoons water (as needed for blending)

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Instructions

Wash cilantro and mint thoroughly under cold water. Pat completely dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner. Pick mint leaves from stems (stems make chutney bitter). For cilantro, tender stems are fine to include.
Roughly chop onion, peel garlic cloves, and peel ginger piece. Remove seeds from green chilies if you prefer milder heat.
Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies to blender first (hardest ingredients go on bottom). Pack in cilantro and mint leaves, followed by onion, salt, cumin, and sugar.
Pour in lemon juice and 2 tablespoons water. Pulse 5-6 times, then blend until smooth. Add remaining water 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach desired thickness.
Taste and adjust salt, lemon juice, or sugar as needed for balance. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Serve chilled with samosas, pakoras, grilled vegetables, or use as a sandwich spread. Chutney keeps fresh in refrigerator for up to 1 week or can be frozen in ice cube trays for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 Tbs
Calories: 15
Sugar: 2.2 g
Sodium: 160.7 mg
Fat: 0.1 g
Carbohydrates: 3.6 g
Fiber: 0.4 g
Protein: 0.3 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg