Anaraser Chatni

Anaraser Chatni, also known as Pineapple Chutney, is a sweet and tangy condiment that pairs well with various Indian dishes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 2-3 dry red chilies, broken into pieces
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare Pineapple:

   • Peel and finely chop the fresh pineapple.

2. Make Sugar Syrup:

   • In a pan, combine sugar and water. Bring it to a boil to make a sugar syrup. Set aside.

3. Tempering (Tadka):

   • Heat oil in a separate pan. Add cumin seeds, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, dry red chilies, and asafoetida. Allow them to splutter.

4. Add Pineapple:

   • Add the finely chopped pineapple to the tempering. Sauté for a couple of minutes.

5. Add Turmeric Powder:

   • Add turmeric powder to the pineapple and mix well.

6. Cook Pineapple:

   • Cook the pineapple on medium heat until it becomes soft and releases its juices.

7. Add Sugar Syrup:

   • Pour the prepared sugar syrup into the pan. Stir well.

8. Simmer:

   • Simmer the mixture on low heat until it thickens to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally.

9. Season with Salt:

   • Add salt to taste. Remember that the chutney should have a sweet and tangy flavor, so adjust the salt accordingly.

10. Cool and Store:

    • Allow the Anaraser Chatni to cool. Once cooled, transfer it to a clean, dry jar for storage.

11. Serve:

    • Anaraser Chatni is ready to be served. Enjoy it as a condiment with snacks, samosas, pakoras, or as a side with meals.

Tips:

• Use a ripe pineapple for the best flavor.
• If you don't have ground ginger, cinnamon, or cloves, you can use 1 teaspoon of each spice blend.
• Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to your taste.
• For a spicier chutney, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Serve Anaraser Chatni with your favorite Indian dishes, such as samosas, pakoras, or naan bread.

This Pineapple Chutney recipe provides a balance of sweetness, tanginess, and spiciness from the tempering. Adjust the sugar levels and spices according to your taste preference.