Radish Chutney Recipe | Mullangi Chutney – A South Indian Special 🌿

Introduction to Radish Chutney Recipe

Chutneys are an integral part of South Indian cuisine, and among the many varieties, Radish Chutney Recipe (Mullangi Chutney) stands out for its unique earthy flavor and health benefits. Radish, also known as Mullangi in Tamil and Telugu, is often used in sambar and stir-fries, but when transformed into a chutney, it becomes a delightful side dish.

This chutney is slightly pungent due to radish, but when cooked and blended with tamarind, green chilies, garlic, and tempered spices, it develops a deliciously balanced taste. It pairs beautifully with dosa, idli, chapati, and even hot steamed rice with ghee.

Ingredients for Radish Chutney Recipe

For Chutney:

Radish – 1 cup (chopped)
Onion – 1 small (optional)
Tomato – 1 medium (optional, for tanginess)
Green chilies – 3 to 4
Garlic – 3 to 4 cloves
Tamarind – small piece
Oil – 2 tbsp
Salt – to taste

For Tempering:

Oil – 1 tbsp
Mustard seeds – ½ tsp
Urad dal – 1 tsp
Dry red chili – 1
Curry leaves – 6 to 8

Step-by-Step Preparation of Mullangi Chutney

Step 1 – Sauté the Vegetables

Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped radish, green chilies, garlic, onion, and tomato (if using). Sauté until the radish softens and the raw smell disappears.

Step 2 – Grind into Chutney

Add tamarind and salt, mix well. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then grind into a smooth chutney.

Step 3 – Prepare Tempering

Heat oil in a small pan. Splutter mustard seeds, then add urad dal, dry red chili, and curry leaves. Fry until golden and aromatic.

Step 4 – Mix & Serve

Pour the tempering over the ground chutney, mix well, and serve with dosa, idli, chapati, or hot steamed rice.

🌟 Pro Tips for the Best Radish Chutney Recipe

Sauté properly: Cook radish well to eliminate its strong smell.
Adjust tanginess: Add tomato for natural tang or rely on tamarind alone.
Spicy kick: Increase the number of green chilies if you prefer heat.
Nutty flavor: Add a teaspoon of roasted sesame seeds while grinding.
Consistency: For thicker chutney, reduce water while blending.

💡 Usage Ideas for Mullangi Chutney

Breakfast: Spread on dosa or pair with idli, pesarattu, or vada.
Lunch/Dinner: Mix with hot rice and ghee for a comforting meal.
Snacks: Serve as a spicy dip with pakoras, parathas, or chapatis.
Fusion Idea: Use as a spread for wraps or sandwiches for a desi twist.

📦 Storage Tips for Radish Chutney

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Always use a clean, dry spoon to prevent spoilage.
Best enjoyed fresh, as radish can develop a stronger flavor over time.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

With idli, dosa, pesarattu, or uttapam for breakfast.
As a side with sambar-rice or rasam-rice for lunch.
Alongside roti, paratha, or chapati for dinner.
As a dip for pakoras, bajjis, or vadas during snack time.

Health Benefits of Radish Chutney

Rich in fiber, helping digestion and gut health.
Natural source of Vitamin C for immunity.
Contains antioxidants that support detoxification.
Light on calories yet filling, perfect for healthy meals.

Variations of Mullangi Chutney

With Coconut: Add grated coconut while blending for a creamy version.
Dry Style: Reduce tomatoes and grind into a thicker chutney for rotis.
Spicy Garlic Version: Double the garlic for stronger flavor.
Green Chutney Twist: Use green chilies with coriander leaves for freshness.

FAQs – Radish Chutney Recipe

Q1. Can I skip onion and tomato?
Yes, you can make a simpler version with just radish, chilies, garlic, and tamarind.

Q2. How do I reduce the pungent smell of radish?
Cook radish thoroughly and balance with tamarind or tomato.

Q3. Can I use this chutney for tiffin box?
Yes, but make sure it’s consumed within the same day for freshness.

Q4. Can I make it less spicy for kids?
Yes, reduce green chilies and add a bit of coconut for mildness.

Final Thoughts

This Radish Chutney Recipe (Mullangi Chutney) is a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings out the best of traditional South Indian cooking. With its earthy flavor, spicy kick, and tangy notes, it’s a wonderful companion for dosas, idlis, rice, and chapatis.

If you’re looking for a healthy, unique chutney that goes beyond the usual coconut or tomato chutney, then mullangi chutney is a must-try in your kitchen. 🌿