Pickles are a beloved part of Indian cuisine, adding a burst of flavor and spice to meals. They can be made from a variety of fruits and vegetables, each with its own unique taste and character. Here are three delightful spicy Indian pickle recipes that you can easily try at home!
This classic Indian pickle is a staple in many households, especially during mango season. It pairs wonderfully with rice, roti, or even as a zesty sandwich spread.
To make this pickle, start with raw, green mangoes. Peel and cut them into small pieces, then mix them with salt, turmeric, and red chili powder. Allow them to marinate for a few hours. Next, heat mustard oil until it reaches smoking point, then let it cool. Combine the oil with the mango mixture, and add some mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds for extra flavor. Store the mixture in a jar under the sun for a few days to enhance the flavors.
This mango pickle can last for several months when stored correctly. If you like a bit of sweetness, consider adding jaggery or sugar to balance the heat.
Lemon pickle is another favorite that is both tangy and spicy, making it a perfect accompaniment to any Indian meal. It’s especially popular during the summer months.
Begin by cutting fresh lemons into quarters and placing them in a bowl. Sprinkle salt over the lemons, making sure they are well coated. Add a mix of spices like red chili powder, turmeric, and a bit of asafoetida (hing) for an aromatic touch. For an added punch, you can throw in some crushed black pepper. Transfer the mixture into a jar and pour in mustard oil. Seal the jar and let it sit in sunlight for a week, shaking it gently each day.
This lemon pickle develops a fantastic flavor over time and can be enjoyed for up to a year. If you prefer a sweeter version, feel free to add honey or sugar.
Mixed vegetable pickle is a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables and is packed with flavors from various spices. This is a versatile pickle that you can enjoy with almost any dish.
Start by chopping a mix of vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, and green beans into small pieces. In a bowl, combine these vegetables with salt, turmeric, and red chili powder, letting them sit for a few hours. In a separate pan, heat mustard oil until it smokes. Once cooled, mix it with the vegetables along with spices like fennel seeds, mustard seeds, and nigella seeds (kalonji) for a complex flavor profile. Pour the mixture into a jar and let it sit in the sun for 4-5 days.
This mixed vegetable pickle can last for months in the refrigerator. You can customize it by adding or omitting your favorite vegetables or varying the spice levels to suit your taste.
These examples of spicy Indian pickle recipes are not only easy to prepare but also offer a delightful way to spice up your meals. Remember that pickles often taste better with time as the flavors meld together. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and spices to create your unique version of these classic recipes!