Dry Hempseed Chutney Powder, also known as hemp seed podi, is a flavorful and nutrient-packed condiment rooted in Indian culinary traditions, particularly from South India. This versatile powder, made from roasted hemp seeds, lentils, spices, and herbs, adds a nutty, spicy kick to meals. It’s perfect as a side dish, seasoning, or garnish, offering both taste and health benefits. This recipe yields approximately 200 grams of chutney powder, ideal for small households or frequent use over a couple of weeks.
Nutritional Benefits of Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition, making this chutney powder not just delicious but also a healthy addition to your diet. They are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation. Hemp seeds also provide high-quality protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making them a great choice for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, they are packed with vitamins and minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron, which boost immunity and energy levels. The combination of lentils and spices in this recipe further enhances its protein and antioxidant content, making it a wholesome condiment.
Ingredients
To prepare 200 grams of Dry Hempseed Chutney Powder, gather the following ingredients:
Hemp seeds: 100g (hulled or de-husked for a smoother texture)
Urad dal (split black gram): 50g
Chana dal (split chickpeas): 30g
Dried red chilies: 8–10 (adjust for spice preference)
Coriander seeds: 2 tablespoons
Cumin seeds: 1 tablespoon
Black peppercorns: 1 teaspoon
Tamarind: 1 small marble-sized piece (or 1 teaspoon tamarind paste)
Curry leaves: 10–12 fresh leaves (or dried)
Asafoetida (hing): ¼ teaspoon
Salt: 1–1½ teaspoons (to taste)
Oil: 1 teaspoon (preferably sesame or coconut oil for roasting)
Garlic cloves (optional): 2–3, peeled
Dried coconut (optional): 2 tablespoons, grated
These ingredients create a balanced flavor profile—nutty from hemp seeds, spicy from chilies, tangy from tamarind, and aromatic from spices and curry leaves.
Equipment Needed
A heavy-bottomed pan or skillet
A spice grinder or blender
A clean, dry airtight container for storage
Measuring spoons and cups
A spatula or wooden spoon
Preparation Method
Follow these steps to make approximately 200 grams of Dry Hempseed Chutney Powder:
Step 1: Dry Roast the Ingredients
Heat the pan: Place a heavy-bottomed pan on medium heat. Keep the flame low to avoid burning the ingredients.
Roast lentils: Add urad dal and chana dal to the dry pan. Roast for 4–5 minutes, stirring continuously, until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Remove and set aside.
Roast hemp seeds: In the same pan, add hemp seeds. Roast for 2–3 minutes until they become slightly golden and aromatic. Be cautious, as hemp seeds can burn quickly. Remove and set aside.
Roast spices: Add coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and black peppercorns to the pan. Roast for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove and set aside.
Roast chilies and curry leaves: Add 1 teaspoon of oil to the pan. Add dried red chilies, curry leaves, and garlic (if using). Roast for 1–2 minutes until the chilies are crisp and curry leaves are dry. Remove from heat.
Roast tamarind and coconut (if using): If using dried tamarind, roast it briefly for 30 seconds to dry it out. Roast dried coconut for 1 minute until slightly golden.
Step 2: Cool and Grind
Cool ingredients: Allow all roasted ingredients to cool completely to room temperature. This prevents moisture buildup during grinding, ensuring a fine, dry powder.
Grind the mixture: In a spice grinder or blender, add the roasted lentils, hemp seeds, spices, chilies, curry leaves, tamarind, asafoetida, and salt. If using coconut or garlic, add them now. Grind in batches if needed, aiming for a coarse to fine powder, depending on your texture preference. Avoid over-grinding to prevent the mixture from becoming pasty due to the oil content in hemp seeds.
Step 3: Check and Store
Taste and adjust: Check the powder for salt and spice levels. Add more salt or roasted chilies if needed and blend again briefly.
Store properly: Transfer the chutney powder to a clean, dry, airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerate to extend shelf life up to 1–2 months.
Serving Suggestions
Dry Hempseed Chutney Powder is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy it:
With rice: Mix 1–2 teaspoons of the powder with hot steamed rice and a drizzle of ghee or sesame oil for a quick, flavorful meal.
As a side: Serve as a dry chutney with idli, dosa, or vada. Sprinkle it over or mix with a little oil to make a paste.
With snacks: Use as a seasoning for roasted vegetables, popcorn, or flatbreads like paratha or naan.
In curries: Add a teaspoon to curries or stir-fries for an extra layer of flavor.
As a dip: Combine with yogurt or olive oil for a unique dip for crackers or veggies.
Tips for Best Results
Freshness matters: Use fresh hemp seeds and spices for maximum flavor. Check that hemp seeds are not rancid before roasting.
Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the number of red chilies or use a milder variety like Kashmiri chilies for color without intense heat.
Texture preference: For a chunkier powder, pulse the grinder briefly. For a finer powder, blend longer but avoid overheating the mixture.
Storage: To maintain freshness, store in small batches and use a dry spoon to avoid introducing moisture.
Shelf Life and Storage
When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, the chutney powder stays fresh for about 1 month. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life to 2 months. Always use a dry spoon to prevent spoilage.
Cultural Significance
In South Indian cuisine, chutney powders (or podi) are a staple, often passed down through generations. This hemp seed version modernizes the traditional recipe by incorporating nutrient-dense hemp seeds, blending tradition with contemporary health consciousness. It’s a perfect example of how ancient culinary practices can evolve to meet modern dietary needs.
Conclusion
Dry Hempseed Chutney Powder is a delicious, healthy, and versatile condiment that elevates everyday meals. With its nutty, spicy, and tangy profile, it’s a must-try for anyone looking to add a nutritious twist to their pantry staples. This 200-gram batch is perfect for regular use, offering a balance of flavor and wellness in every spoonful.
