Kempu Chutney

Kempu chutney which literally means red chutney does not need any introduction if you have ever eaten a Mysore masale dose. This flavorful red chutney is what sets it apart from the regular masala dosas. A thin layer of this chutney smeared over dosas, stuffed with alugadde palya aka spicy potato filling, rolled and served with bowls of chutney and sambhar is a tempting meal anytime, any given day in my world. 😋 Byadagi variety chillies which are commonly used in Karnataka for their color are typically used here. Kashmiri variety chillies or any other less spicy but color lending chillies can be substituted here. I feel this chutney closely resembles the ones used in restaurants to spread the masala dosa. 

Byadagi chilies are less spicier variety but this chutney would be very spicier if eaten as a side dish because of the large quantity of chillies used here. The spice level however would be perfect if spread on a masala dosa / dose. Reduce the quantity of chilies to about 4 / 5 if not using this chutney as a spread but serving as a side dish. This chutney is quite flavorful and can stay fresh for few days if refrigerated. 

Ingredients:
15 byadagi chillies 
1 to 2 tbsp. oil
1 tsp. cumin seeds
4 garlic cloves
1 onion, roughly chopped
1 tsp. tamarind
2 tbsp. chutney dal / roasted Bengal gram 
Salt to taste 

Directions:
* Wash and soak chillies in hot water for about 20 to 30 minutes and drain.
* Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. When they start to brown, add garlic and saute until they turn light golden. Add the chillies next and saute for few seconds. At this point, onion can be added and sauteed as well, if preferred or onion can be used raw.
* Let the mixture cool and grind them along with the remaining ingredients to a smooth paste without adding water. 
* Use it a spread for Mysore masala dose or with idlis / other dosas as a side dish.


This post is an entry for Blogging Marathon. Check what other marathoners are cooking, clicking at the link.

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