🌶️ Chilli Thecha Recipe | Maharashtrian Mirchi Thecha | Spicy Green Chilli Thecha

🌶️ Chilli Thecha Recipe

Thecha, a staple in Maharashtrian cuisine, is not just a condiment; it’s a celebration of flavors that perfectly complements various traditional dishes. This spicy chutney is deeply rooted in Maharashtra’s culinary heritage, often enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions.

✨ A fiery and rustic Chilli Thecha Recipe, also known as Maharashtrian Mirchi Thecha, made with green chilies, garlic, and roasted peanuts. This authentic spicy green chilli thecha is a traditional side dish served with jowar bhakri, bajra roti, chapati, or hot rice with ghee. Quick, flavorful, and a must-try Maharashtrian chutney for spice lovers!

With its vibrant green color and fiery heat, Chilli Thecha can elevate even the most mundane meals into a delightful experience. It encapsulates the essence of home-cooked Maharashtrian food, bringing families together around the dining table.

🥗 Ingredients

To achieve the best flavor, select fresh, firm green chilies with a glossy skin. The spiciness can vary significantly between different varieties, so choose according to your heat preference. Pairing the chilies with aromatic garlic and crunchy peanuts creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds.

• Green chilies – 10 to 12 (spicy variety)

• Garlic – 6 to 8 cloves

• Roasted peanuts – 2 tbsp

• Oil – 1 tbsp

• Cumin seeds – ½ tsp

• Salt – to taste

Optional (for extra flavor):

• Coriander leaves – 2 tbsp (chopped)

• Lemon juice – ½ tsp

Cooking techniques play a vital role in enhancing the flavor profile of Thecha. For instance, the roasting process not only softens the chilies and garlic but also brings out their natural oils, making the chutney more aromatic.

🔪 Preparation Method

It’s important to monitor the roasting closely to prevent burning, which can impart a bitter taste. Stir frequently and remove the ingredients from heat once they reach the desired level of blistering.

Step 1 – Roast Chilies & Garlic

• Heat oil in a pan.

• Add green chilies and garlic cloves.

• Roast on medium flame until chilies blister and garlic turns golden.

Step 2 – Grind / Pound Thecha

• Transfer roasted chilies and garlic to a mortar & pestle (traditional) or a blender.

  If you’re using a mortar and pestle, apply even pressure while grinding to maintain the chunky texture of Thecha. This traditional method not only honors authentic practices but also enhances the overall flavor experience.

• Add roasted peanuts, cumin seeds, and salt.

• Coarsely crush or grind (thecha should remain slightly chunky, not smooth).

Step 3 – Add Extra Flavor (Optional)

• Mix in chopped coriander leaves or a dash of lemon juice for freshness.

Step 4 – Serve

• Enjoy spicy chilli thecha with jowar bhakri, bajra roti, chapati, or hot steamed rice drizzled with ghee.

  Chilli Thecha can also be enjoyed with a variety of dishes beyond traditional bread. For instance, use it as a topping on grilled vegetables or a spicy filling in wraps for a modern twist.

✅ Pro Tips

For those who wish to experiment, consider adding different spices such as turmeric or smoked paprika for an unexpected depth of flavor. Adjusting the ingredient ratios can lead to a unique taste profile, reflecting personal preferences.

1. Use a stone mortar & pestle for authentic flavor and texture.

2. Adjust the number of green chilies as per spice tolerance.

3. Roasted peanuts add nutty taste – you can increase quantity for a richer chutney.

4. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

🍴 Serving Ideas

Chilli Thecha is incredibly versatile; it can also be used as a marinade for meats or a zesty addition to salads. The possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating this spicy chutney into your meals.

• Traditional combo: Jowar bhakri + Thecha + curd.

  Consider pairing this dish with a refreshing cucumber raita or yogurt to balance the heat, creating a well-rounded meal that caters to all palates.

• Side dish with dal-rice, bajra roti, or chapati.

  Additionally, sharing Chilli Thecha among friends and family can spark conversations about food memories and traditions, further enriching the dining experience.

• Add as a spicy chutney with pakoras or parathas.