The spicy tomato chutney is one of the most intense and tasty sauces of Indian gastronomy. Its combination of tomato, garlic, chili peppers and spices makes it the perfect accompaniment for samosas, pakoras, dosa, idli, or to enjoy with Naan.
Today I share my homemade recipe for spicy tomato chutney, A quick and easy version that you can prepare at home to give an explosive touch of flavor to your dishes.
If you want to know more about the Indian chutneys, its origins and varieties, don't miss my article on chutneys in indian cuisine.
Ingredients and recommendations

Ingredients to prepare spicy tomato chutney
- Fresh tomatoes: They provide the base and acidity of the chutney. Use ripe tomatoes for a better flavor.
- Onion: It gives a sweet touch and softens the intensity of the chiles.
- Garlic: Adds depth of flavor and an aromatic touch.
- Fresh red chiles: For a very spicy chutney. You can reduce the amount if you prefer a milder level of spiciness.
- Red chili powder: It intensifies the spiciness and gives a more vibrant color to the chutney.
- Sal: Adjust to taste to balance the flavors.
- Curry leaves: They add a characteristic South Indian touch. They can be omitted if you do not get them.
- Mustard seeds: They are used in the final tempering to enhance the flavor.
- Sunflower oil: You can substitute coconut oil for a more aromatic version.
Variants of tomato chutney
The spicy tomato chutney has many versions in India. Some of the most popular include:
- Tomato and tamarind chutney: Tamarind is added for a sweet and sour touch.
- Tomato chutney with coconut: Grated coconut is incorporated for a creamier texture.
- Tomato chutney without garlic: For a lighter version without garlic.
- Dried tomato chutney: Instead of fresh tomatoes, dried tomatoes are used for a more intense flavor.
Spicy Tomato Chutney Recipe
Ingredients
- 400 grs of tomato (ripe, chopped)
- 100 grs of onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 3 fresh red chili peppers
- ⅓ teaspoon of red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 8 curry leaves
- ¼ teaspoon of mustard seeds
- 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil
Instructions
- In a frying pan with 1 tablespoon oilAdd the chopped onion, garlic and chopped fresh chiles. Sauté over high heat for 5 minutes until the onion is golden brown.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for a few more minutes. 5 minutesuntil they lose a little of their consistency and become soft.
- Add the chili powder and salt, stir well and cook. 5 minutes more. Then, remove from heat and let cool.
- Blend the mixture in a food processor until a homogeneous texture without lumps is obtained.
- To serve, heat 1 tablespoon oil in a frying pan and add the mustard seeds. When they begin to open, incorporate the curry leaves and cook until crispy (be careful with oil splashes if using fresh leaves).
- Pour this mixture over the tomato chutney as a finishing touch.
What can I take the spicy tomato chutney with?
This chutney is very versatile and can be enjoyed with many Indian recipes, such as samosas, pakoras, dosas and idlis. It is also ideal for all kinds of rice side dishes or biryani. And as a good lover of Indian bread that I am... I will tell you that it is great with paratha, naan or any version of bread 😊.
Other chutneys recipes
- Recipe for Mint chutney
- Recipe for Cilantro chutney
- Recipe for Tamarind chutney
Tips and notes
- Serve freshly made to enjoy its fresh and intense flavor. You can also keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight jar.
- If you prefer a less spicy chutney, If you use fresh chili peppers, reduce the amount of fresh chili peppers or eliminate chili powder.
- For a spicier version, you can add a pinch of garam masala or turmeric.
- If you want to keep it longer, You can freeze it in small portions and thaw only what you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does spicy tomato chutney last in the refrigerator?
Approximately 4 days in an airtight jar.
Can I freeze this chutney?
Yes, you can freeze it in small portions and use it when you need it.
How can I make chutney without garlic?
Simply omit the garlic in the recipe and follow the same steps.
📸 Have you prepared your spicy tomato chutney yet? Leave me a comment, or upload a photo to Instagram with the hashtag. #cookingwithmiviajealaindiaI'd love to see your homemade chutney! 😍


Leave a Reply