How to Make Delicious Red Bell Pepper Chutney

Looking to add a burst of flavor to your meals? Homemade chutneys can be a game-changer in the kitchen. One chutney that’s sure to impress your taste buds is Red Bell Pepper Chutney. This versatile condiment is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy, making it the ideal accompaniment to anything from grilled meats to rice, or even just a slice of warm, crusty bread. Whether you're serving it with an Indian feast or pairing it with your favorite snack, this red bell pepper chutney recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

In this article, we will take you through the process of creating this vibrant chutney from scratch. It’s simple, easy to follow, and the end result is guaranteed to elevate your dishes with its unique flavor profile. Plus, it’s made with fresh, healthy ingredients, making it a perfect homemade addition to your meals.

How Many Servings Does This Recipe Yield?

This red bell pepper chutney recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings, making it the perfect amount for a small family gathering or a week’s worth of meal prep.

Ingredients Required for Red Bell Pepper Chutney

To make this chutney, you’ll need a few common ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors that work beautifully with a variety of dishes.

• 2 large red bell peppers – Choose ripe, firm peppers for the best flavor.

• 1 medium-sized onion – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

• 2 tablespoons of oil – Use vegetable or olive oil for sautéing.

• 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste – Provides a flavorful base for the chutney.

• 1-2 green chilies – Adjust to your spice preference.

• 1 tablespoon of sugar – Balances the tanginess and heat.

• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice – For a refreshing tang.

• 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder – Adds color and warmth.

• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin – Brings in earthy tones.

• 1 teaspoon of ground coriander – Adds a citrusy, herbaceous note.

• Salt to taste – Enhances all the flavors in the chutney.

• Fresh cilantro (optional) – For garnishing and added freshness.

These ingredients come together to create a chutney that is rich in flavor with just the right amount of spice and sweetness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Red Bell Pepper Chutney

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Making red bell pepper chutney is easy, and once you’ve tasted this homemade version, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought chutneys again.

Step 1: Roast the Red Bell Peppers

The first step in creating this chutney is to roast the red bell peppers. Roasting the peppers enhances their sweetness and adds a smoky undertone to the chutney.

• Wash and dry the red bell peppers. Cut them into halves and remove the seeds and stems.

• Place the pepper halves on a baking sheet, skin side up, and roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the skin becomes charred and blistered.

• Alternatively, you can also roast them on a gas stovetop. Simply place the pepper halves directly on the flame, turning them occasionally until the skin is charred.

• Once roasted, transfer the peppers into a bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them steam for a few minutes. This will make it easier to peel off the skin.

Step 2: Peel and Blend the Peppers

After the peppers have cooled down, peel off the charred skin. The skin should come off easily. Once peeled, chop the peppers into small pieces. Transfer the chopped peppers into a blender or food processor.

• Blend the roasted peppers into a smooth puree. If you prefer a chunky chutney, you can pulse it a few times to achieve the desired texture.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 medium-sized chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes.

• Add 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 2 minutes, allowing the paste to cook through and release its aroma.

• Stir in the 1-2 chopped green chilies based on your spice preference. If you like it spicier, you can add extra chilies or even some chili powder later.

Step 4: Add the Spices

Once the onions and aromatics are sautéed, it’s time to add the spices to bring out the full flavor of the chutney.

• Add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder to the pan.

• Stir the spices well and let them cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine the Pepper Puree

Now, add the roasted and blended red bell pepper puree to the pan with the spices and onions. Stir everything together, making sure the chutney is evenly mixed.

• Add 1 tablespoon of sugar to balance the flavors. The sugar will cut through the natural tang of the peppers and enhance the chutney's overall taste.

• Add salt to taste, and stir again to combine all the ingredients.

Step 6: Simmer and Cook

Let the chutney simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes. The chutney will thicken and the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the chutney at the bottom of the pan.

• After the chutney has thickened, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.

• Taste the chutney and adjust the salt, sugar, or lemon juice if needed. If you want more heat, you can add extra green chilies or chili powder at this stage.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the chutney is cooked and has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Transfer it into a serving bowl and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Your Red Bell Pepper Chutney is now ready to serve! Pair it with rice, dosa, grilled chicken, or anything else you like. It’s also delicious as a spread for sandwiches or wraps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I store Red Bell Pepper Chutney?
Yes! This chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze it in small portions for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat before serving.

2. Is this chutney spicy?
The spice level of this chutney is adjustable. If you like a milder chutney, use fewer green chilies or remove the seeds from the chilies before adding them. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add extra chilies or some chili powder.

3. Can I use other peppers instead of red bell peppers?
Yes, you can experiment with other peppers like yellow or orange bell peppers, or even a combination of different peppers. Each type of pepper will give the chutney a slightly different flavor profile.

4. Can I add more sweet ingredients to the chutney?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter chutney, you can increase the amount of sugar or even add some jaggery (a traditional unrefined sugar). Adjust the sweetness to your liking.

5. What can I serve Red Bell Pepper Chutney with?
This chutney is extremely versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s perfect with rice, bread, grilled meats, or Indian snacks like samosas and pakoras. You can even use it as a dip for chips or crackers.

Stay tuned for more mouthwatering recipes and exciting cooking tips right here. If you have any questions or thoughts about this Red Bell Pepper Chutney recipe, feel free to leave a comment below. We love hearing from our readers and engaging in tasty conversations about food!