All Recipes
Chef Priya
Priya's Kitchen Notes

Easy recipes, bold spices, and stories from my family kitchen.

Starter Guide To Indian Flavor

Tomato Coconut Chutney

Thakkali Thengai Chutney

(42 reviews)
"

This chutney always reminds me of leisurely Sunday breakfasts at grandma's, with dosas steaming on the griddle and the irresistible aroma of freshly ground coconut.

"
Tomato Coconut Chutney
Prep time:10 mins
Cook time:10 mins
Total time:20 mins

Protein

2g

Carbs

10g

Fat

9g

Calories

120 kcal

Servings:
4
VegetarianGluten Free

Ingredients

fresh coconut1 cup
(grated)
ripe tomatoes2 medium
(chopped)
yellow onion1 small
(sliced)
dried red chilies2
(adjust to taste)
tamarind paste1 tsp
oil1 tbsp
(neutral oil)
curry leaves10 leaves
(fresh)
saltto taste

Spices

mustard seeds1 tsp
asafetidaa pinch

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes and dried red chilies to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy, around 5–7 minutes.

Blend the Chutney

  1. Transfer the cooked tomato mixture to a blender.
  2. Add grated coconut, tamarind paste, and salt.
  3. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Chef's tip: Be cautious with hot ingredients in a blender; allow them to cool slightly before blending if needed.

Temper the Chutney

  1. In the same pan, heat the remaining oil over medium heat.
  2. Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.
  3. Add curry leaves and a pinch of asafetida, stirring for a few seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour the tempering over the blended chutney and stir to combine.
Chef's tip: Tempering adds incredible depth and aroma to the chutney, so don't skip this step!

How did you like this recipe?

Click to rate

Collection of Indian Spice Blends

My Go-To Spice Blends

These are the five homemade spice blends I reach for again and again. Check out my free list of cherished family recipes that will bring bold, authentic flavor to your cooking.

More Indian Flavor

South Indian Cabbage Stir Fry

South Indian Cabbage Stir Fry

Cabbage Poriyal

A simple yet flavorful stir-fry of cabbage with coconut and a touch of spice, this dish is a staple in South Indian homes.

25 mins
Side DishSouth Indian
Creamy Yogurt Rice

Creamy Yogurt Rice

Thayir Sadam

A refreshing South Indian comfort food featuring creamy yogurt mixed with rice, tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a hint of ginger.

35 mins
Side DishSouth Indian
Fresh Coriander Coconut Chutney

Fresh Coriander Coconut Chutney

Kothamalli Thengai Chutney

A vibrant, creamy chutney that combines fresh coriander and coconut with a hint of tang, perfect for pairing with dosas or idlis.

15 mins
Side DishSouth Indian

Behind the Recipe

Chef Priya in her kitchen

Hi! I'm Priya. I grew up in Delhi in a tiny kitchen filled with noise, spices, and stories. I learned to cook the way most of us do—by watching, tasting, and eventually doing. My mother never measured anything, but somehow every dish was perfect.

After I moved to the U.S., I found myself cooking the same dishes to feel close to home. Friends would ask for recipes, and I realized how unfamiliar Indian cooking still felt to many people here. That's what led me to start sharing—not just the food, but the how and why behind each step.

These recipes are rooted in tradition but shaped by life abroad. I try to keep things practical without losing what makes them special. If you've ever wanted to bring more Indian flavor into your kitchen, I hope this is a good place to start.