Coriander Chutney 

Ingredients Notes 

• Coriander Leaves: Coriander leaves are the fresh green leaves of the coriander plant. They have a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Garlic: It adds depth and flavor to the coriander sauce. If you're out of fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder or garlic paste as a substitute. Remember that the flavor profile may differ slightly. 
• Onion: Onion will add a slightly sweet flavor and thick texture to the coriander chutney. Alternatively, you can use shallots or scallions (green onions) as substitutes. They offer similar flavors. 
• Green Chilies: Green chilies add heat and flavor to the chutney. If you want to reduce the heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the green chilies. 
• White Vinegar: It will add acidity to the sauce and will work as a preservative. 

Prepare the Coriander Leaves  

• Start by choosing fresh coriander leaves with vibrant green colors. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt and pat them dry. Remove the discolored or damaged leaves and discard any unwanted parts.  
• Chop the entire coriander bunch, including the tender stems, into fine pieces. These stems carry a lot of flavors and will add depth to your chutney, making it even more aromatic and delicious. 

Prepare other ingredients 

• Peel the garlic cloves. 
• Roughly chop the onion. 
• If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the green chilies. 

Blend

• In a blender or food processor, add the washed and drained coriander leaves, peeled garlic cloves, chopped onion, green chilies, white vinegar, and a pinch of salt. 
• Start blending on low speed, gradually adding water as needed to achieve your desired chutney consistency. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is well combined. 
• Continue blending until you have a smooth and vibrant fresh coriander dipping sauce. Taste and adjust the salt and spice levels as needed. 

Variations 

Coriander sauce is such a versatile dish that it is made in many varieties in India. There are numerous variations of coriander sauce (coriander chutney) that you can create to suit your taste preferences. Some of them are 

• Minty Coriander Chutney: Add fresh mint leaves to the basic coriander chutney recipe to create a refreshing and cooling variation. The combination of mint and coriander creates a delightful blend of flavors. 
• Coconut Coriander Chutney: Incorporate freshly grated coconut into the chutney for a rich and creamy texture. This variation is commonly served with South Indian dishes like dosa and idli. 
• Yogurt-Based Coriander Chutney: Mix any plant-based yogurt with coriander leaves, green chilies, and spices to create a creamy and tangy coriander yogurt dip. It's an excellent accompaniment for snacks like samosas. 
• Tangy Tamarind Coriander Chutney: Add tamarind pulp or paste to the chutney for a tangy twist. This variation pairs well with chaat, samosas, and other Indian street food. 
• Coriander and Peanut Chutney: Include roasted peanuts in your coriander chutney for added texture and nutty flavor.  
• Sweet Coriander Chutney: Balance the spiciness of the chutney with sweetness by adding sugar, jaggery, or dates. This sweet and savory variation is often used in chats and snacks. 

Storage 

Proper storage of coriander sauce is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here's how to store coriander sauce effectively 

• Refrigeration: Transfer the sauce to an airtight container. Ensure the container is clean and dry to prevent any moisture from causing spoilage. Seal the container tightly. Coriander sauce can typically stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one to two weeks. 
• Cover the Surface: To prevent discoloration and maintain the vibrant green color, drizzle a thin layer of oil (preferably vegetable or olive oil) on the surface of the coriander sauce. This oil layer acts as a barrier against oxidation. 
• Freezing: Pour the sauce into ice cube trays or small portions in freezer-safe containers. Once it's frozen, transfer the cubes or portions to a freezer bag. Properly sealed, frozen coriander sauce can last for several months. 
• Check for Spoilage: Before using the sauce check it for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or unusual color changes. If you notice any such signs, discard the sauce. 

What to Serve with Coriander Chutney 

Coriander chutney is a versatile condiment that pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes. 

• Serve your homemade Coriander Chutney as a dip with snacks like Pinwheels, Fried Cauliflower, or Smashed Potatoes. 
• It's also a great accompaniment to sandwiches, wraps, and even as a drizzle over roasted vegetables or stuffed spaghetti squash.