How To Make Authentic South Indian Ginger Chutney At Home

By Shreya Sarpal

October 2, 2025

Ginger Chutney, or Allam Pachadi, is a South Indian favourite made with sautéed ginger, tamarind, and jaggery. It offers a bold mix of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavours, aids digestion, and perfectly complements dosa, idli, and steamed rice.

Ingredients

½ cup fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped ¼ cup tamarind pulp 2 tbsp jaggery 3-4 dry red chillies 1 tbsp sesame oil (or any cooking oil) ½ tsp mustard seeds A few curry leaves Salt to taste

Step 1

Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a pan, add chopped ginger and dry red chillies, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until golden and aromatic, then let cool.

Step 2

In a blender, combine the sautéed ginger and chillies with tamarind pulp, jaggery, and salt, grinding into a smooth paste with a little water if needed.

Step 3

Heat 1 tsp oil in a small pan, add mustard seeds, and let them splutter before adding curry leaves to sauté briefly.

Step 4

Pour the tempering over the chutney, mix well, and serve alongside dosa, idli, or hot rice.