The short answer
Mango chutney is the sweetest and pairs with samosas, cheese and grilled meat. Plum (aloo bukhara) chutney is sweet-sour and made for pulao, biryani and kebabs. Imli (tamarind) chutney is the tangiest and belongs on chaat, pakoras and dahi baray.
Side by side
| Mango | Plum | Imli | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taste | Sweet, mildly spiced | Sweet-sour | Tangy-sweet |
| Texture | Thick, glossy | Jammy | Runny sauce |
| Best with | Samosa, cheese, BBQ | Pulao, biryani, kebabs | Chaat, pakoras, dahi baray |
Serving tip
Sweet chutneys taste best at room temperature. Take out what you need a little before serving rather than spooning it straight from the fridge.