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Classic Indian Onion Chutney (No-Cook) – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Classic Indian Onion Chutney (No-Cook)

A sharp, simple, and direct Indian onion chutney. This mind-bogglingly easy, no-cook recipe transforms simple onions into a pungent, vibrant condiment that cuts through the richness of dishes like dal with a bright, zesty punch.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 1 servings
Calories: 102
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large or 2 small red or Vidalia onions, quartered and thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp (5 g / 0.18 oz) salt, or more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp (10 ml) coarsely cracked black peppercorns
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) paprika
  • Pinch cayenne, to taste (optional)
  • Pinch chaat masala, to taste (optional)
  • Feel free to swap the red onion with white onions, shallots, or even thinly sliced scallions for different levels of pungency and sweetness.
  • This chutney gets better with time! Store it in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to a month. The flavor will deepen and mellow beautifully.
  • For a spicy twist, try a Hot Pepper Chutney: Replace the onion with 4-5 fresh red chiles (or a red bell pepper for less heat) and swap the black pepper for 2 cloves of minced garlic. Pulse in a food processor until coarsely chopped.

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, separate the layers of the sliced onion.
  2. Add the salt, coarsely cracked peppercorns, red wine vinegar, and paprika to the bowl.
  3. Stir well to combine, ensuring the onions are fully coated.
  4. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least one hour to allow the onions to soften and pickle.
  5. Just before serving, stir in the optional cayenne and/or chaat masala if using.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Adjust the resting time. For a crispier texture, let it sit for just 30 minutes. For a softer, more pickled flavor, let it marinate for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge.
  8. Don't be shy with the chaat masala! This tangy Indian spice blend adds an incredible, complex layer of flavor that takes the chutney to the next level.

Nutrition

Calories: 102kcalCarbohydrates: 20.1gProtein: 2.2gFat: 0.2g

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