Fig Chutney / Fig Thuvaiyal

 Unripe Fig Chutney (Thuvaiyal) – A Nutritious Twist on a South Indian Classic

If you're looking for a flavorful, healthy side dish that's a little different from the usual coconut or tomato chutney, this unripe fig thuvaiyal is a must-try! Figs are naturally rich in fiber and nutrients, and using the unripe version adds a gentle tartness that blends beautifully with spices and coconut. This chutney pairs perfectly with idli, dosa, or even hot steamed rice. It’s a simple yet wholesome dish that brings out the best in seasonal produce.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Unripe fig – 1 cup (washed and chopped)

• Onion – ½ cup (chopped)

• Tomato – 1 (chopped)

• Ginger – 1-inch piece (chopped)

• Green or red chilli – 2 (adjust to taste)

• Salt – ¾ tsp (or to taste)

• Tamarind – small gooseberry-sized piece

• Chana dal – 2 tbsp

• Urad dal – 1 tbsp

• Asafoetida – ¼ tsp

• Oil – 3 tsp

• Coconut – ¾ cup (shredded)

For Seasoning:

• Oil – 2 tsp

• Mustard seeds – ½ tsp

• Urad dal – ½ tsp

• Curry leaves – a few

Instructions

1. Sauté the Figs:

   • Heat 1 tsp oil in a pan over medium flame.

   • Add the chopped figs and sauté for 3–4 minutes.

   • Remove and set aside.

2. Prepare the Base:

   • In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tsp oil.

   • Add asafoetida, chana dal, and urad dal. Sauté until golden brown.

   • Add chopped onions, green chillies, and ginger. Sauté until onions turn soft.

   • Add tomatoes and salt, cook for 1–2 minutes.

   • Return the sautéed figs to the pan and mix well.

   • Add the shredded coconut, stir for less than a minute, then turn off the heat.

3. Blend the Chutney:

   • Allow the mixture to cool.

   • Once cooled, grind it into a smooth paste (you can add a little water if needed).

4. Seasoning (Tadka):

   • Heat 2 tsp oil in a small pan.

   • Add mustard seeds and urad dal. Once the urad dal turns golden, add curry leaves.

   • Pour this seasoning over the ground chutney.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve this flavorful fig chutney with warm idlis, crispy dosas, or mix it with hot rice and a drizzle of ghee for a comforting meal. It’s a delicious way to add more variety and nutrition to your South Indian spread!