The western world may consider it a method of “preservation” or “fermentation”, but for us pickles are not just a part of food, they are the soul of our kitchen. This is the taste that has reached our plate from the hands of our grandmothers. Those childhood memories when the plate had sweet-sour, spicy-spicy pickles made by mother or grandmother for lunch, still give us comfort. Be it the spicy green chilli pickle or the mango pickle fragrant with fenugreek and cardamom, or that bright yellow cabbage pickle – name it and the mouth starts watering!
Even today, in many Indian homes, you will see large cans of pickles in glass jars kept in the sun. It is not just drying in the sun, it is letting the taste mature, making it deeper.
So is homemade pickle a thing of the past now?
It is true that nowadays various types of pickles are easily available in the market, but to be honest, they do not have the quality that homemade pickles have. That “desi” taste, that love and that freshness is missing somewhere. Market pickles only fill the cans, but not the heart!
Pickle making – not difficult, it’s a game of patience!
Many people think that pickle making is a big hassle. Yes, it does take some time. Sun drying the ingredients, soaking them in oil and spices, and then letting them ripen in the sun for a few days – all this requires patience. But as the saying goes, “patience pays off,” and in the case of pickles, the fruit is extremely delicious!
Salt and oil: The superheroes of pickles!
Salt and oil play a very important role in making pickles. Salt doesn’t just enhance the taste, it absorbs moisture and prevents bacteria from growing. Oil acts as a shield, it doesn’t let the ingredients dry out and keeps them soft. Different oils and spices give different tastes to pickles. This is why the mango pickle made in mustard oil in North India is completely different from the mango pickle made in sesame oil in South India!
Some smart tips and tricks for making pickles:
Some important things to improve the art of pickle making:
Cleanliness comes first: Always use clean and sterilized (washed with boiled water and dried) jars for making pickles. Also, always use fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits. The fresher the vegetables, the crispier the pickle will be.
Friendship with salt: Don’t skimp on the amount of salt! Salt helps a lot in extracting water from vegetables and preserving pickles for a long time.
New twist with flavored vinegar: You can use flavored vinegar to add a new flavor to your favorite pickle recipe.
Always keep the rim of the jar clean: Always wipe the rim of the jar properly before putting the lid on so that it does not remain moist.
Mouthwatering Pickle Recipes:
What are you waiting for? Try out these amazing pickle recipes and make your thali even more delicious!
Carrot Pickle: This pickle is the perfect accompaniment to a hot meal in winters. Nutritious and delicious, it has both sweet and sour flavours.
Green Chilli Pickle: This spicy chilli pickle made in mustard oil will add life to your meal. It tastes great with parathas or any vegetable.
Ginger Pickle: Ginger pickle is the best to add some spiciness to everyday meals. Grate it very finely. This pickle is a favourite during Navratri festivals.
Amla Pickle: This sweet and sour pickle is made from the Indian gooseberry (amla). Amla is an excellent source of vitamin C and is also beneficial for hair, skin and weight loss.
Plain Lemon Pickle: The tangy lemon pickle with spices has always been a favourite. You can enhance the taste by adding some ginger to it. It is one of the most common pickles in Indian households.
Aam Ka Achaar (Punjabi Style): This Punjabi style pickle will add a twist to your meal. Made with raw mango and various spices, the flavour of mustard oil makes it special. It can be had with hot parathas or dal-rice.
Potli Ka Achaar: Potli ka achaar or raw mango pickle is more common in Sindhi households. Raw mangoes are mixed with nigella seeds, garlic and mustard oil. It is a must try for summers.
Cauliflower Turnip Pickle: This cabbage and turnip pickle, made with various spices, jaggery and mustard oil, is a favourite in winters. It is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy.
Red Chilli Banarasi Pickle: Packed with tangy spices, this Banarasi style chilli pickle is for all the spicy lovers. Don’t miss it!
Drumstick Pickle: Do try this delicious drumstick pickle. Made with a fine paste of fenugreek, mustard, red chillies and tamarind, this pickle will leave you asking for more.
Onion-Garlic Pickle: With the distinctive flavour of garlic, onions and a host of spices, this is one pickle that can become your favourite accompaniment to every dish.
Mullagai Thokku: This South Indian style pickle is made with just a few key ingredients – chillies (for the spiciness) and tamarind (for the sourness). You can prepare this South Indian pickle within minutes and store it for days.
3-Ingredient Onion Pickle: Pickling may seem like a daunting task, but trust us, this onion pickle recipe is so easy, quick and needs only 3 ingredients.