Imli ki Chatni 
(Indian tamarind sauce)

Written by on in Recipe
A small bowl of imli ka chatni tamarind chutney
Image by Tim Sackton

Imli ki chatni is a smooth, sweet-sour chutney with the smoky flavor of tamarind. Serve this sauce as a dip for savory samosas, deep-fried pakora or other snacks. Imli ki chatni will keep for several weeks in the refrigerator.

Imli ki Chatni

Imli ki Chatni

Course: SaucesCuisine: India
Makes about 2 1/2 cups

Imli ki chatni is a smooth, sweet-sour chutney with the smoky flavor of tamarind. Serve this sauce as a dip for savory samosas, deep-fried pakora or other snacks.

Ingredients

  • Tamarind pulp — 2 tablespoons

  • Warm water — 1 cup

  • Brown sugar — 1/2 cup

  • Raisins — 1/4 cup

  • Dates — 1/4 cup

  • Ground cumin –1 1/2 teaspoons

  • Ground ginger — 1 teaspoon

  • Garam masala (optional) — 1 teaspoon

  • Cayenne pepper — 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon

  • Salt — to taste

Directions

  • Soak the tamarind pulp in the warm water for about 15 minutes to soften it up. Using the back of a fork, mash it into the water to dissolve the pulp. Strain through a sieve, discarding the fibers and seeds.
  • Add the tamarind water with the remaining of ingredients and puree in a blender. Adjust seasoning and serve.

Imli ki Chatni Notes and Variations

  • Use all raisins or all dates if you like. Golden raisins, or sultanas, work very well.

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