Ever heard of any food that contains plastic? We are sure you have not even thought about this in the wildest of your dreams. After all, who eats plastic? As bizarre as it sounds, we're going to make plastic edible for you. Don't get scared and stop reading yet; we're not encouraging you to eat plastic in the literal sense! Instead, we're going to introduce you to something quite unique that looks like plastic but is actually made using raw papaya. And its similarity to plastic is just a mere coincidence. But don't go by its appearance because its taste will certainly take your taste buds by surprise. Once you try this unique plastic chutney, we're sure you'll want to keep making it again and again.
What Is Plastic Chutney?
Plastic chutney is a popular chutney from Bengal. Made using raw papaya, this chutney has a sweet flavour and is somewhat like fruit chutney. If you're wondering why it's called plastic chutney, well, it's mainly because of its appearance. To make it, raw papaya is cut into thin slices and then cooked in sugar syrup along with some flavourings. This results in a clear and translucent raw papaya that looks exactly like plastic. It may look like plastic, but its refreshing and sweet taste is what makes it so loved.
Is Plastic Chutney Healthy?
Raw papaya, the main ingredient in this chutney, is considered to be quite beneficial for our health. It is rich in fibre and contains an enzyme called papain, which aids in digestion. Consuming raw green papaya can also help flush out harmful toxins from the body and promote skin health. If you want to make this chutney healthier, you can reduce the amount of sugar used in it or even swap it for jaggery.
Also Read: Sweet And Spicy: Try These 5 Bengali Chutneys To Make With Your Next Meal
How To Make Plastic Chutney: Plastic Chutney Recipe
To make this chutney, first, we need to wash and scrape out the seeds of the raw papaya. Peel out thin strips of the papaya using a peeler. Soak these strips in a bowl of water for around 10-15 minutes. Repeat this process 2-3 times, and then drain out the water. Now, heat some ghee in a pan. Add the soaked papaya strips and saute for a minute or two. Add water and let it boil. Once done, add sugar and saffron strands and mix well. (Make sure to keep stirring the mixture.) You can also add some lemon juice at this stage. Next, add cardamom, kalonji seeds and salt for flavour. Mix well and cook the chutney until it becomes thick and translucent in texture. Transfer to a bowl and top with roasted cashew nuts. Plastic chutney is ready!
Also Read: How To Make Aamer Chutney: This Chutney From Bengal Is Perfect For Summer
For the complete recipe for plastic chutney, click here.
Try making this unique chutney at home, and you'll be surprised at how good it tastes. Do let us know how you liked it in the comments below.