Make Mango Pickle at Home: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Tangy and Delicious: A Guide to Making Mango Pickle at Home

Mango pickle, a staple condiment in many South Asian households, is a burst of flavor and a delightful accompaniment to various dishes. Its tangy, spicy, and sometimes sweet notes can elevate any meal. But beyond its taste, homemade mango pickle offers the satisfaction of creating a delicious condiment from scratch.

Here's a basic recipe to get you started on your mango pickling journey:

Ingredients:

2 cups raw mangoes, thinly sliced (choose firm mangoes that are not yet ripe)

1/4 cup salt

1/4 cup red chili powder

1 tablespoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds, roasted and ground

1 teaspoon mustard seeds, roasted and ground

1/2 teaspoon hing (asafoetida)

1/4 cup vegetable oil

Mustard seeds, for tempering (optional)

Curry leaves, for tempering (optional)

Instructions:

• Wash and dry the mangoes thoroughly. Slice them thinly, discarding the pit.

• In a large bowl, combine the mango slices with salt. Mix well and set aside for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the mangoes to release their juices.

• Drain the excess water from the mangoes. You can pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

• In a separate bowl, mix the red chili powder, turmeric powder, fenugreek powder, mustard powder, and hing.

• Add the dry spice mixture to the drained mangoes and toss well to coat evenly.

• Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add mustard seeds (optional) and let them splutter. You can also add a few curry leaves (optional) for additional flavor.

• Immediately pour the hot oil over the mango-spice mixture. Be careful, as the mixture may splatter.

• Mix everything well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

• Transfer the pickle to a clean, airtight jar. Leave some space at the top, as the pickle will settle over time.

• Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dry place for at least 2-3 days before consuming. The longer you store it, the deeper the flavors will develop.

Tips:

You can adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less red chili powder.

For a sweeter pickle, add a tablespoon of jaggery or sugar to the spice mix.

If you prefer a drier pickle, you can sun-dry the mango slices for a few hours before adding them to the spice mixture.

Use a sterilized jar for storing the pickle to prevent spoilage.

Once opened, store the pickle in the refrigerator and consume it within a few weeks.

Additional notes:

1. This recipe is a basic guide, and there are numerous variations depending on regional preferences and family traditions. Feel free to experiment with different spices and ingredients to create your own unique mango pickle recipe.
2. It's important to use clean and dry utensils throughout the process to prevent bacterial growth.
3. If you are new to pickling, it's advisable to start with a small batch to ensure success.

Enjoy your homemade mango pickle! It adds a delightful tang to your meals and is sure to become a family favorite.