In the world of Indian cuisine, chutneys and condiments are as essential as the main dishes themselves. They add a burst of flavor and texture, transforming any meal into an unforgettable experience. Among the most popular accompaniments are Dahi Wali Chutney and Lachha Pyaz. These two delicious additions elevate the taste of your food, whether you’re enjoying parathas, biryanis, or kebabs. Here’s how you can make these two flavorful delights at home.
Dahi Wali Chutney: A Cool and Creamy Delight
Dahi Wali Chutney is a yogurt-based chutney that is both refreshing and tangy. The creaminess of yogurt combined with the spices creates a perfect balance of flavors. It is commonly served with snacks, grilled meats, and main courses.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably chilled)
- 1 tablespoon roasted cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon black salt
- 1 teaspoon regular salt (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh coriander leaves
- 1 tablespoon mint leaves (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the sourness)
- 1-2 green chilies (finely chopped, optional for extra spice)
- Water (as needed, for consistency)
Instructions:
- Prepare the yogurt: In a mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth and creamy.
- Add the spices: To the yogurt, add roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, black salt, regular salt, and sugar. Adjust the quantity of spices as per your taste preferences.
- Chop the herbs: Finely chop the fresh coriander and mint leaves and add them to the yogurt mixture. You can also add green chilies if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Mix well: Stir all the ingredients until evenly combined. You can adjust the consistency of the chutney by adding a little water if needed.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the chutney for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors blend. Serve it chilled alongside your meal or snacks.
Dahi Wali Chutney can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days in the refrigerator.
Lachha Pyaz: Crisp and Tangy Pickled Onions
Lachha Pyaz is a simple yet zesty onion salad made with thinly sliced onions, seasoned with spices and lime juice. It is a crunchy, tangy, and slightly sweet side dish that pairs beautifully with rich and flavorful dishes like kebabs, biryanis, and tandoori items.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized red onions (thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black salt
- 1/2 teaspoon regular salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing (optional)
Instructions:
- Slice the onions: Start by peeling the onions and cutting them into thin slices. If you want, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 5 minutes to remove some of the bitterness.
- Mix the spices: In a large mixing bowl, add lemon juice or vinegar, black salt, regular salt, red chili powder, and roasted cumin powder. Add sugar if you like a slight sweetness in your lachha pyaz.
- Toss the onions: Add the thinly sliced onions to the bowl and toss them well so that the spices coat the onions evenly.
- Marinate: Let the onions sit for about 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld together. The onions will soften slightly but still remain crisp.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately as a crunchy side dish with your main course.
Lachha Pyaz can be stored in the refrigerator for a day or two, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch.
Tips for Serving:
- Dahi Wali Chutney is perfect with spicy dishes, as it cools down the heat. Try it with tandoori chicken, samosas, or even as a dip for roasted vegetables.
- Lachha Pyaz can be served with practically any Indian meal, adding a refreshing crunch to balance out the richness of the main dish. It’s particularly delicious with biryanis, kebabs, or parathas.
Conclusion:
Dahi Wali Chutney and Lachha Pyaz are both easy to prepare and bring vibrant flavors to your table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these condiments will add that extra zing to your food. The combination of cool yogurt with zesty spices in Dahi Wali Chutney and the crisp, tangy onions in Lachha Pyaz is a match made in culinary heaven. So, next time you’re preparing an Indian feast, don’t forget to include these two tasty sides!
