Grind the chutney: Add coconut, ginger/garlic, cumin seeds, green chilies, salt, roasted chana dal (fried gram), lemon juice and water to a blender. (If using frozen coconut, bring it close to room temperature or heat it in a pan, until hot to touch. Cool down and use)
Blend until smooth to a thick chutney, adding more water if required. Taste test and add more chilies or salt to your preference. Transfer to a serving bowl.
Tempering: Heat a pan with 1 teaspoon oil, on a medium flame. Add mustard seeds, dried red chili and urad dal (optional), When the dal turns golden, turn off and add curry leaves & hing. Stir gently and pour over the chutney.
Serve coconut chutney with dosa, idli, vada or pongal.
Variations: Add the coriander leaves or the mint leaves along with other ingredients and blend.
