Looking for an easy and flavorful condiment to spice up your meals without breaking the calorie bank? Look no further than tomato chutney! With just 20 calories per tablespoon (21g), this versatile sauce can be used in a variety of ways to add a sweet and tangy kick to your dishes.

Made from a blend of ripe tomatoes, caramelized onions, garlic, ginger, and a mix of Indian spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, tomato chutney is both delicious and nutritious. In addition to adding flavor to your meals, it also provides a range of health benefits thanks to its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

In this article, we'll explore some creative ways to use tomato chutney in your cooking, as well as the health benefits of consuming this delicious condiment.

Easy to make condiment for any meal

One of the best things about tomato chutney is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a food processor or blender, you can whip up a big batch in no time. Once you have a jar of tomato chutney in your fridge, it can be used to add flavor to a variety of meals throughout the week. Try spreading it on a sandwich instead of mayonnaise or mustard, using it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or mixing it with cream cheese for a delicious dip. You can also serve it alongside your favorite Indian dishes like curry or biryani for extra flavor.

Adding tomato chutney to your sandwiches

As mentioned, tomato chutney makes an excellent substitute for traditional sandwich spreads like mayonnaise or mustard. Its sweet and tangy flavor pairs well with a variety of meats, cheeses, and vegetables, and it adds depth to even the most basic sandwich. To use tomato chutney as a sandwich spread, simply spread a thin layer on your bread before adding your other ingredients. You can also mix it with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamier spread that still packs a flavorful punch. Some popular sandwich combinations with tomato chutney include turkey and cheddar, roasted vegetable and goat cheese, and chicken salad.

How to use tomato chutney as a marinade

In addition to using tomato chutney as a condiment, it can also be used as a flavorful marinade for meats and vegetables. Its acidic properties help to tenderize meat while adding a bold flavor profile. To use tomato chutney as a marinade, simply coat your protein or vegetables in the sauce and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for meat). You can also use it as a basting sauce when grilling or roasting meat for added flavor. Some great meats to use with tomato chutney include chicken, pork, and lamb, while vegetables like eggplant and zucchini also pair well.

Spice up your curry with tomato chutney

If you love Indian food, you'll know that chutneys are a common accompaniment to many dishes. One way to use tomato chutney in your Indian cooking (besides serving it as a condiment) is to add it to your curries for extra flavor. Simply stir in a tablespoon or two of tomato chutney towards the end of cooking to add a sweet and tangy note. You can also use it to create a tomato-based sauce for your curries by blending it with yogurt or cream.

Tomato chutney as a topping for breakfast foods

If you're looking to add some excitement to your breakfast routine, try using tomato chutney as a topping for your toast, bagels, or english muffins. Its sweet and savory notes pair well with eggs, bacon, and cheese, and it can be a nice change from the usual jams and spreads. You can also use it as a topping for avocado toast or as a dip for breakfast potatoes or hashbrown.

Benefits of consuming tomato chutney

In addition to its delicious taste, tomato chutney also provides a range of health benefits that make it a great addition to any diet. For one, tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect against cancer, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses. Tomatoes are also high in vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and folate, and they have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. Finally, the blend of spices used in tomato chutney (like cumin and turmeric) are known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

Tomato chutney for a low calorie diet

If you're watching your weight, tomato chutney can be a great addition to your diet. With just 20 calories per tablespoon, it's a low-calorie way to add flavor to your meals without adding a lot of extra fat or sugar. You can also use it to replace higher calorie condiments like ketchup or BBQ sauce, which can be loaded with added sugars and sodium.

Health benefits of the ingredients in tomato chutney

As mentioned, tomato chutney contains a variety of nutritious ingredients that provide a range of health benefits. For example, onions are a rich source of flavonoids and sulfur compounds that have been shown to help prevent cancer and reduce inflammation in the body. Garlic and ginger are also powerful anti-inflammatory foods that can help to reduce pain and swelling, while the spices used in tomato chutney (like cumin, coriander, and turmeric) are known for their digestive and immune-boosting benefits.

How long can you store tomato chutney

If you make a big batch of tomato chutney, you may be wondering how long it will keep in the fridge. Generally speaking, homemade tomato chutney can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks if stored in an airtight container. If you want to keep it for longer, you can also freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before using it in your cooking.

Different variations of tomato chutney

While the basic recipe for tomato chutney is typically made with onions, garlic, and a blend of spices, there are many variations that you can try depending on your tastes. For example, you can add other ingredients like dried fruit, nuts, or even whiskey for a unique twist. Here are a few ideas to get you started: - Mango tomato chutney: Add diced fresh mango to the tomato chutney for a sweet and tangy variation. - Cranberry tomato chutney: Add dried cranberries for a festive twist on traditional tomato chutney. - Pecan tomato chutney: Add chopped pecans for an added crunch and nutty flavor. - Whiskey tomato chutney: Add a splash of your favorite whiskey to the tomato chutney for a boozy kick.