Did your mouth also water when you read the title? Did you feel a tingle? If yes, then you've already taken your first step into the enticing world of pickles, where the thought of tangy, crunchy deliciousness has the power to send your taste buds on a mouthwatering adventure of flavour and nostalgia.
One of the most integral parts of Indian meals, which ties them together, is a side dish—extremely complex in nature: PICKLES!
India is home to a wide range of rich and versatile food options. We have different types of pickles for everyone. If you are not a fan of big, fat meals, don’t worry; you can enjoy pickles as snacks.
When it comes to pickles, India boasts a wide range of choices that not only satisfy the palate but also offer a multitude of flavours, textures, and health benefits.
These pickles are a staple in Indian cuisine. Different types of pickles are celebrated for their diverse ingredients and unique regional influences. From the tangy allure of mango pickles to the fiery punch of chilli pickles, each variety carries its own distinct charm.
Come along as we explore the vibrant world of unique and different types of pickles, especially Indian pickles, delving into the most popular options and the delightful culinary experiences they bring to the table.
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10 Delicious Pickles of India
Indian pickles, known as "achar", are prepared with the common goal of preserving flavours and enhancing dishes. The values of tradition and taste are deeply rooted in the preparation of different types of pickles throughout India.
Indian pickles are not simply condiments; they are cherished accompaniments that enhance any meal. The sweet, spicy, savoury, or hot notes of different types of pickles enrich your meal.
Indian pickles are cherished across the nation and globe for their diverse flavours and regional influences. Here are a few different types of pickles for you to try:
Mango Pickle
Looking for a tangy, delicious side dish to pair with your Khichdi, Aloo Paratha, or Curd Rice? "Aam ka Achar"- mango pickle, holds a special place in every Indian cuisine. It stands as an iconic representation of the country's culinary diversity. Raw mangoes, with their unique tanginess. The magic lies in the blend of spices, which infuse the pickle with flavours.
Apart from tasting good, these pickles can aid digestion, help regulate blood sugar levels, and reduce inflammation.
Maharashtra is home to some of the best-tasting mango pickles found in India. There are different types of pickles made from mangoes. Famous for its pickles made from native-grown mangoes, you can taste some of the best pickles of your life here.
Lemon Pickle
Lemon pickle, known as 'Nimbu ka Achar,' is a culinary gem in Indian cuisine. It embodies the perfect balance of zestiness and tanginess that awakens the palate. Prepared by marinating lemon wedges, it accompanies Indian dishes.
The sweet and tangy lemon pickle is well-known all around the country, but it is especially loved in Maharashtra. Along with dishes like Bharli Vangi, Sol Kadhi, and Sabudana Khichdi, that tangy flavour complements them perfectly. Furthermore, lemon is alkaline and helps maintain a good pH balance in your body
Indian Hog Plum Pickle
Indian Hog Plum, called "Amtekai" in South India, is known for its distinct sweet and sour flavour. The fruit is sliced and then pickled with a blend of spices, including mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and red chilli powder.
Fermented for a few days, the pickle develops its unique taste. It's a cherished condiment in South Indian cuisine, and eaten with a variety of dishes such as Appam, Puttu, and Neer Dosa, offering vitamin C content, aiding immunity, and potentially offering antioxidant properties.
Amla Pickle
Amla pickle, crafted from Indian gooseberries, is a beloved pickle in India. These small, green fruits are combined with a blend of traditional spices and oil to create a flavorful condiment. Every state has a distinct method of preparing it.
Known for its tangy and slightly bitter taste, best savoured with Khichdi, Thepla, and Khandvi, Amla pickle is not only a tasty addition to meals but also offers a healthy dose of vitamin C and antioxidants, potentially boosting immunity and promoting well-being.
Chilli Pickle
Chilli Pickle, or "Mirchi ka Achar" in India, caters to bold and adventurous palates seeking an intense burst of heat and flavour. This fiery condiment is crafted from whole green or red chillies.
Known for their fiery and aromatic taste, Rajasthani chilli pickles, or Lal Mirch Ka Achaar, are undeniably enticing. Best enjoyed with Daal Baati Churma, Gatte Ki Sabzi, and Papad Ki Sabzi. They may offer health benefits through potential metabolism-boosting effects.
Haldi Root Lemon Pickle
This one is for all the health-conscious pickle enthusiasts out there looking to try something new. Haldi Root Lemon Pickle is the perfect option, filled with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Perfect addition to a hot paratha, you can also add a teaspoon of this to rice kanji and buttermilk to experience a burst of flavour. Excellent for the gut as it is a rich source of probiotics, fresh turmeric lemon pickle is a powerful immunity booster.
Imli Pickle
Tamarind, or Imli pickle, is the tangiest addition we have for you. It is a power-packed, yummiest vitamin C addition to your meal. It has a strong, tangy-sweet taste that sets it apart from lemon or any other pickle.
Imli pickle is a prominent condiment in South Indian cuisine, paired with curd rice, dosas, idlis, and sambar. Apart from being a flavour bomb, it helps in digestion, provides antioxidants, and stimulates appetite.
Onion Pickle
You may have noticed jars of whole onions soaking in a pink brine at home or in a restaurant – these are onion pickles, a beloved condiment in Indian cuisine that has been enjoyed for generations. The preparation of onion pickles can vary significantly. You can add spice and ferment them, or thinly slice and then soak in a mixture of vinegar and sugar before your meal.
Usually served with traditional North Indian thali, it is savoured everywhere because of its unique taste and health benefits. Onions are a rich source of antioxidants, aiding digestion and stimulating the appetite.
Bamboo Shoot Pickles
If you were planning to experiment with pickles and expand your taste palate, then bamboo shoot pickles are a perfect addition. A Northeastern delicacy, these pickles are made from tender bamboo shoots that are found abundantly in the region.
Pickled with a combination of spices and seasonings, it tastes best when enjoyed with Thukpa, Eromba, and Galho. These pickles are a good source of dietary fiber and contain vitamins. Perfect addition to your meal.
Pineapple Pickle
Pineapple pickle is popular in various parts of India, but it is particularly enjoyed in the southern states and coastal regions. States like Kerala and Karnataka, which have abundant pineapple cultivation, are known for their delicious pineapple pickles.
These pickles are a delightful addition to Bisi Bele Bath, Avial, and Chicken Curry. The combination of the tropical fruit's sweetness with the spicy and tangy flavours of Indian pickling spices makes pineapple pickles a favourite in these regions.
These are a few of the best pickles found in our country. However, a list of 10 pickles can never do justice to the wide range and different types of pickles we have to offer the world. You need to explore and find more of these amazing pickles and try them out.
Hop on to the next section to catch some of the lesser-known and different types of pickles.
2 Unique Kinds of Pickles You Need to Try Now
Think you've explored all the pickle possibilities? Think again!
You have had mango pickles and Amla pickles before, but try these two different types of pickles to experience the completely unique flavour profiles of these fruits.
Here are the hidden gems of the pickle world; these two lesser-known delights deserve a spot on your plate. They might just redefine your pickle preferences!
1.Gur Kairi Chunda
Gur Kairi Chunda, also known simply as "Chunda," is a famous Indian pickle made from raw mangoes and jaggery (gur). It is a sweet and spicy pickle commonly prepared and enjoyed in the western Indian state of Gujarat.
Chunda is a traditional condiment in Gujarati cuisine, and it is a favourite accompaniment to various dishes like thepla, dhokla, and snacks like fafda and khakhra. The combination of tangy raw mangoes and the sweetness of jaggery gives Chunda its unique flavour profile, making it a beloved part of Gujarati meals.
2.Amla Murabba
Amla Murabba is primarily made and cherished in various regions of India. It is a sweet and tangy concoction prepared by simmering them with sugar or jaggery, flavoured with spices like cardamom and black pepper. Amla Murabba is a popular traditional delicacy enjoyed for its potential health benefits and delightful taste.
This delightful preserve is widely made in Indian households and commercially produced, with variations in recipes across states. Amla Murabba is celebrated for its rich vitamin C content and is consumed as a medicinal and tasty treat. It's commonly found in Indian homes and is enjoyed as a standalone sweet or as a side dish with meals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
How to store different types of pickles?
You can store pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure the pickles are stored in a dry place and not exposed to moisture for long.
How long can we store pickles?
You can typically store pickles in the refrigerator for several months to a year, depending on the type of pickle and how well they are preserved.
Are pickles healthy?
Studies indicate that pickles can be a healthy snack. They are low in calories and can provide probiotics if they are fermented. However, if you have high blood pressure, it's essential to consume them in moderation because of the high sodium content present in them.
Can you make different types of pickles at home?
Yes, you can make pickles at home. You can use fruits, vegetables, and spices. Homemade pickles can be customised to your liking.
Conclusion
Pickles are not just condiments; they are a testimony to the art of preserving flavours. Across nations, cultures, cuisines, and traditions, these tangy, crunchy delights have left an incredible mark on our palates and in our memories.
Whether you savour the spicy kick of a Chilli pickle, the spicy Mango Pickle, or the tangy Imli Pickle, the world of pickles is a culinary journey worth embarking upon.
From homemade recipes passed down through generations to the innovative creations of today, pickles continue to tantalise your taste buds and connect us to our cultural roots.
For amazing, organically made pickles with love and traditional recipes passed down for generations, check out Two Brothers Organic Farms.
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