Hirvi Mirchi Thecha or Kharda (Rustic Green chilly chutney)

Today I am sharing recipe for a traditional rustic Maharashtrian condiment Mirchi cha thecha also known as Mirchi cha Kharda in some parts of Maharashtra. It is typically consumed with Pithala (made with chickpea flour) and Bhakri (made out of Jowar or Bajri flour). It is extremely spicy, so use with caution. It is really simple to make. 

Ingredients: Green chillies (Hirvi Mirchi): 20-25, roasted peanuts (raw or roasted as per your preference) - 1/4th cup, Garlic: 8-10 pods, Cilantro: 4-5 tsp chopped, Oil to saute - 3 tsp, Cumin: 1 tsp, Lemon juice: 1/2 tsp, salt to taste. 

Method: Wash green chillies, wash and chop cilantro, peel garlic. Saute the green chillies, garlic and cilantro in oil till soft. Add peanuts and saute for 2 mins. Cool and grind the green chillies, peanuts, cilantro, garlic with cumin seeds, lemon juice with salt in a grinder to a coarse paste. Do not add water. Keep pulsing the mixer till you have achieve desired level of coarseness. Remove the coarse paste into a bowl. 

Note: I like to add tempering at the end for added flavor. Heat oil in a pan and heat 4-5 tsp oil, add 1/2 tsp mustard seeds. When they crackle, add 1/4th tsp asafoetida and add it to the ground thecha.

Enjoy the spicylicious mirchi cha thecha or kharda with Jowar or Bajri bhakri or even as a part of your everyday meal with roti and rice.

Till my next post, take care everyone.

PS: I am contributing this to #tasteofindianstates on Insta.
It is a cool initiative by 8 ladies of insta @kitchenmai @lakshmiscookbook @nandini_shivraj @dine_with_danika @sanoberbansal @happytummybyritumbhara @gastronomicbong and @mycurryvedaCook where you some favorite dish from any Indian state cuisine and Use #tasteofindianstates to contribute and don’t forget to mention all 8 ladies.