Imli Aur Adrak ki Saunth

Introduction

Originating from Delhi and Punjab, Imli Aur Adrak ki Saunth, also known as Tamarind & Ginger Chutney, is a sweet, tangy, and spicy accompaniment made with tamarind extract, ground ginger, roasted cumin seeds, garlic, brown sugar, chilli powder, fresh ginger, and raisins. The combination of sour tamarind, warming ginger, and gentle sweetness creates a rich and flavourful chutney.

Historical Relevance

Imli Aur Adrak ki Saunth reflects the culinary traditions of Delhi and Punjab, where tamarind-based chutneys are often balanced with sweet, spicy, and aromatic ingredients. The addition of ginger, roasted cumin, and raisins gives this preparation its distinctive depth and makes it a flavourful traditional accompaniment.

Preparing the Main Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 500 ml / 18 fl oz (2¼ cups) tamarind extract
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, roasted
• 6 cloves garlic, crushed
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon sliced ginger
• 1 tablespoon raisins
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Put the tamarind extract into a large bowl and add the ground ginger, roasted cumin seeds, crushed garlic, brown sugar, chilli powder, sliced ginger, and salt, reserving the raisins.
2. Season with salt, then transfer the mixture to a large, heavy-based pan and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
3. Add the raisins and stir for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their flavour.
4. Remove from the heat, allow the chutney to cool, and serve.

Pro Tips

Roast the cumin seeds gently before adding them to the chutney to bring out their warm, earthy aroma. Stir the tamarind mixture regularly while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pan. Add the raisins towards the end so they retain their texture while absorbing the sweet and tangy flavours of the chutney.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Imli Aur Adrak ki Saunth as a sweet, tangy, and spicy accompaniment to traditional Indian snacks and savoury dishes. Its rich tamarind flavour and warming ginger notes provide a delicious contrast to fried and spiced preparations.

Fun Fact

The word “saunth” is commonly associated with a sweet-and-tangy style of tamarind chutney that is popular in North Indian cuisine. Imli Aur Adrak ki Saunth combines tamarind with ginger, roasted cumin, and raisins for a distinctive balance of sour, sweet, and spicy flavours.