“Learn how to make Khajoor Imli Chutney(Sweet Tamarind Chutney, Date Tamarind Chutney) at home! Sweet, tangy, and delicious – a perfect dip for chaats. Quick 10-min recipe with pro tips!”
Ingredients for Khajoor Imli Chutney
- ½ cup tamarind (imli)
- 1 cup dates (khajoor) – seedless
- ½ cup jaggery (gud)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp roasted cumin powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp black salt
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Dates and Tamarind
- Wash and deseed the dates and tamarind.
- Place the dates and tamarind in a bowl and soak them in about 2 cups of hot water for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Soaking them makes them soft and easy to blend.
Step 2: Cook the Mixture
Let the mixture cool down completely.
Transfer the soaked dates, tamarind, and the soaking water into a saucepan or pressure cooker.
Add the jaggery and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer on a medium flame for about 10-15 minutes, or until the dates and tamarind are very soft and the jaggery has completely dissolved. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 2-3 whistles.
Step 3: Blend and Strain
- Once cooled, transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend it into a smooth paste.
- Place a fine-mesh sieve over a bowl and pour the blended mixture through it.
- Using the back of a spoon, press the mixture to extract as much of the pulp as possible. Discard the fibrous residue left in the strainer.
Step 4: Season the Chutney
- Pour the strained pulp back into the saucepan.
- Add the roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, dry ginger powder, black salt, and salt to taste.
- Mix everything well and cook for another 2-3 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld. If the chutney is too thick, you can add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Cool and Store
- Turn off the heat and let the chutney cool down completely.
- Transfer the chutney to a clean, airtight glass jar.
- Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to a month. You can also freeze it in smaller portions for longer storage.
✅ Pro Tips
✔ Use seedless dates for smooth texture.
✔ Adjust jaggery for sweetness.
✔ Strain chutney for a silky finish.
✔ Store in fridge for 2-3 weeks.
FAQs
What is Khajoor Imli Chutney?
It’s a sweet and tangy chutney made from dates (khajoor) and tamarind (imli), commonly served with Indian snacks.
Is Khajoor Imli Chutney healthy?
Yes, it’s rich in natural sweetness from dates and jaggery, with digestive benefits from tamarind.
What is Khajoor Imli Chutney made of?
Dates, tamarind, jaggery, and spices like cumin and red chili powder.
Is Khajoor Imli Chutney gluten-free?
Yes, this chutney is naturally gluten-free.
Is Khajoor Imli Chutney vegan?
Yes, it’s 100% plant-based.
How to make Khajoor Imli Chutney thick?
Simmer until water reduces or add less water for a thicker consistency.
How long should I soak tamarind and dates?
About 30 minutes in warm water for easy blending.
Do I need to strain the chutney?
Straining gives a smooth texture, but it’s optional.
Can I use sugar instead of jaggery?
Yes, but jaggery gives a better taste.
Can I make it without dates?
Yes, but it will lose the natural sweetness and richness.
How long can I store Khajoor Imli Chutney?
Up to 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Khajoor Imli Chutney?
Yes, freeze in small portions for up to 3 months.
How to store chutney without refrigeration?
Add extra jaggery and keep in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place for a few days.
Why did my chutney ferment?
Because it wasn’t stored properly or kept at room temperature for too long.
Can I store it in plastic containers?
Glass jars are better to preserve freshness.
What do I serve Khajoor Imli Chutney with?
Chaat, samosas, pakoras, dahi vada, bhel puri, Ragda patties, Sandwich, Onion Bhajiya.
Can I use it in sandwiches?
Yes, it adds a sweet-tangy kick to sandwiches and wraps.
Is it good for kids?
Yes, kids love the sweet taste, but avoid too much spice.
Can I use it in curries?
Yes, it can be used for adding tangy-sweet flavor to curries.
Is Khajoor Imli Chutney same as Meethi Chutney?
Yes, they are the same thing.
Can I add green chili?
Yes, for a spicy version.
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