Name: Spicy Sweet Chili Papaya Relish: A Bengali-Inspired Treat
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Chili Paste (lal mirch, red); 2 tsp Fennel Seeds (roasted); 1/4 tsp Salt (or to taste); 1/2 cup Tamarind Paste; 1 cup Jaggery; 1 Tbsp Refined Oil; 1 Papaya (grated, ripe)

Spicy Sweet Chili Papaya Relish: A Bengali-Inspired Treat

40 minutes

928 reads

4.41 from 5 votes

Bengali Homestyle Cooking Indian

About Spicy Sweet Chili Papaya Relish: A Bengali-Inspired Treat

Imagine a burst of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors dancing on your tongue. This vibrant Chili Papaya Relish, inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Bengal, offers just that—a tantalizing experience that will awaken your taste buds.

Ripe papaya melts into a fiery red chili paste, tangy tamarind, and rich jaggery, creating a symphony of flavors. A touch of roasted fennel adds a warm, earthy depth that makes this relish truly unique.

Enjoy this healthy and versatile condiment as a refreshing snack, a vibrant side dish, or a zesty topping for grilled meats and vegetables. It's packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

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Recipe Time & More

Prep20

Cook20

Total40

Calories25 kcal

Serves

Served AsDesserts Snacks

Recipe TasteSalty Sour Spicy Sweet Tangy

Ingredients

Spices and Flavorings

▢ 1/2 cup Chili Paste lal mirch, red
▢ 2 tsp Fennel Seeds roasted
▢ 1/4 tsp Salt or to taste

Sauce Base

▢ 1/2 cup Tamarind Paste
▢ 1 cup Jaggery

Other

▢ 1 Tbsp Refined Oil
▢ 1 Papaya grated, ripe

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Instructions

Grate the ripe papaya. This will help it cook down evenly and create a nice texture for the relish.
Heat the refined oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the grated papaya and stir continuously. This helps release the papaya's natural sweetness.
Add the red chili paste, tamarind paste, jaggery, and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and reduces. This process intensifies the flavors and creates a relish-like consistency. The papaya will become translucent and the sauce will darken slightly.
Remove the pan from the heat and let the relish cool completely. The relish will thicken further as it cools.
Once cooled, transfer the Chili Papaya Relish to a clean, airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months.

Recipe Notes

Good To Know

For extra depth of flavor, lightly roast the fennel seeds before grinding them into powder—this will enhance their aroma and complement the sweetness of the papaya.
If you prefer a crunchier texture, add some toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds as a topping right before serving for a delightful contrast to the soft papaya.
To make a vegan version, ensure your jaggery is free from animal-derived clarifying agents; most jaggery is plant-based, but it's good to check if strict veganism is required.
For a visually striking presentation, serve the Chilli Papaya in papaya halves or small cups, and garnish with fresh mint leaves or finely chopped coriander for a burst of color and freshness.

Expert Tips

Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred level of spiciness. Start with less and add more gradually until you achieve the desired heat.
If using fresh papaya, choose one that is ripe but still firm to the touch. This will ensure that it holds its shape well when mixed with the other ingredients.
The flavor of the Chilli Papaya intensifies over time, so consider making it a few hours ahead of serving to allow the flavors to meld together.