Mishry Rating
GOOD!
Summary
Spice Story Chutneys combine regional, authentic flavors with the convenience of modern-day packing. We liked them and the versatility they offer.
We are always looking for products that add convenience to our cooking. Be it a chopper or a condiment that adds flavors, they can be truly time and effort-efficient.
With a similar approach in mind, Somyadeep Mukherjee founded Spice Story, a brand that offers authentic regional recipes in modern-day convenient format. Of the 12 they offer, we reviewed two- Banarasi Spicy Mango Chutney and Original Kolhapuri Jhatka. This Spice Story Chutney review tells you all you need to know.
What is so unique about Spice Story?
Our Review Factors
What were our focus parameters in the Spice Story Chutney review?
Taste and texture took the front seat. We also observed the overall convenience and quality of these chutneys.
1. Taste
How well was the prominent tang of the Banarasi cuisine replicated in this chutney? What about the innate high chilli-high garlic flavor profile from Kolhapur, did the chutney do justice to this?
Then we gauged the freshness, intensity, and balance of flavors.
2. Consistency
The consistency of the chutneys can alter the overall experience massively when you actually eat them. Their intended use is what the consistency depends on.
Example – A flowy momo chutney would be impractical as you cannot dip it. Similarly, an extremely thick saunth wouldn’t work either.
3. Other Parameters
The price, packaging, and shelf life were other parameters we considered. What makes this brand stand out?
Spice Story Chutney – Detailed Review
The following section holds our experience with the two chutney variants.
Before we share details on the taste and texture, we think the plastic neutrality of Spice Story is truly remarkable. It means that whatever quantity of plastic they create, an equal amount is retrieved and properly disposed of (recycled or repurposed).
1. Banarsi Spicy Mango
Price + Packaging
This chutney is offered in a squeeze bottle which allows for convenient pouring This holds 250 grams and is priced at Rs 149/- with a 1-year shelf life.
Main Ingredients
Sugar, Water, Raw mango powder (12%), Edible common salt, Edible black salt, Red chilli powder, Cumin, Acidity regulators (INS 330), Stabiliser (INS 415), Garam masala, Preservatives (Ins 211), Asafoetida are all the ingredients used.
Aroma + Appearance
This has a fresh, sweet aroma. That said, one cannot really put a finger on which ingredient lends this aroma. This has a deep brown hue and looks glossy.
Taste + Texture
The Banarsi Spicy Mango chutney was WAY thinner than the other variant we tried. This flows out of the bottle swiftly, so be cautious.
The flavor profile was well-rounded, we quite liked this. Though the texture was nowhere near homemade chunda, the flavors were. This was a mix of sweet-tangy flavors, with more dominance on sweetness, as indicated by the aroma. The salt was balanced but there was no spice in this. Overall, this tasted fresh with notes of cumin and asafoetida towards the end of the bite.
2. Original Kolhapuri Jhatka
Price + Packaging
The packaging is fairly similar to the above variant, with a different collage of graphics. A 220-gram bottle is priced at Rs 199/- and has a one-year shelf life.
Main Ingredients
The main ingredients are Water, Red chillies (Sankeshwari, Lavangi – 14%), Garlic (8%), Ginger, Edible black salt, Edible sunflower oil, Edible common salt, Coriander powder, Acidity regulators (INS 330), Cumin, Spices mix, Preservatives (INS 211), Stabiliser (INS 415), Asafoetida.
Aroma + Appearance
This had a bold fiery red hue with desirable aromas of red chillies and garlic. We could see some crushed chilli seeds too.
Taste + Texture
One of our first observations was that this packaged chutney had a homestyle consistency. This was not completely smooth, the consistency was primarily coarse. We could also sense the grittiness of the coriander powder. Overall, thick and dippable.
As for taste, this was VERY potent. The spice levels in this are not meant for those with a low-medium spice tolerance. Salt has been added adequately and the warmth of garlic with the chilli heat all pair well.
- Does justice to the regional tag
- Fresh tasting
- Texture gets a thumbs up
- SUPER convenient packing
- Priced fairly
From your vada pavs to vegetable sandwiches, bland salads, this chutney is here to spice up your dishes instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some interesting FAQs on Spice Story chutney.
1. Are these Spice Story chutney too spicy?
The Kohlapuri Jhatka was loaded with spice but the Banarasi Mango lacked it.
2. Does Spice Story chutney contain preservatives?
Yes, Kohlapuri Jhatka contains INS 211.
3. Are these Spice Story chutneys vegan?
Since they do not have any dairy products, they are vegan.
4. How long does one bottle last?
It is recommended to consume within 60 days after opening.
5. Does this chutney need to be refrigerated?
Yes, once opened, the chutneys must be refrigerated.
Our Verdict
Spice Story chutneys bring the best of both worlds. You get regional flavors, fresh aromas, natural ingredients, with the convenience of squeezy, easy-pour bottles. From salads to marinades, and multiple chaat snacks, these chutneys would make flavoring as easy as ABC.
How quickly will you add these to cart? Did you already?
Our reviews are unbiased and all samples used during the reviews were paid for by us. Read our entire ethics statement here.