Summer brings a double dose of excitement – vacations and mango season. The sight of plump mangoes gleaming in the sun and their aroma filling the air heralds the start of mango season. Kitchens get busy with preparations to make various mango varieties for family and friends, with mango pickle being a highly coveted choice. Beyond its role as a condiment, this pickle celebrates tradition and the art of preservation cherished in homes for generations. There are numerous methods for making mango pickle, each offering unique flavors and techniques. Let’s uncover the layers of flavor, explore the history, and understand why Cut Mango Pickle is more than just a side dish—it’s an enriching journey in every jar.
History of Mango Pickle
Mango pickling is an age-old craft deeply rooted in Indian homes, especially in Kerala and other southern regions. This ancient practice, ingrained in family recipes, served not only to preserve seasonal abundance but also as a tradition passed down through generations.
In times when refrigeration was a luxury, people ingeniously ensured their favorite mangoes were always available by transforming raw, green mangoes into a delectable pickle capable of withstanding time. Sliced into pieces and combined with a variety of spices, these mangoes underwent a transformation into a tangy, spicy delicacy. As summer days waned, jars of cut mango pickle proudly adorned pantry shelves, carrying not just the fruit’s essence but also the warmth of familial connections.
Same, Yet Uniquely Different
The methods of making mango pickle vary greatly across India. Travelling from the north to the south reveals diverse preparations distinguished by choice of oil, cutting styles, spice levels, gravy thickness, and more. In northern and northwestern India, pickles typically feature mustard oil, seen in Aam ka Achaar and Gujarati Methia Keri. Southern varieties like Andhra’s Avakaya and Kerala’s Kadumanga or nurumanga achaar favor gingelly or sesame oil. Beyond oil selection, regional spices play a crucial role in defining each pickle’s distinct flavor profile. Some variations, such as Gujarati and Goan styles, incorporate a hint of sweetness from jaggery or sugar. Most mango pickles use firm raw mangoes, but specific varieties like Kerala’s kannimanga achaar use young, tender mangoes harvested early in the season, offering an intense flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the added spices.
Every household presents a unique mango pickle recipe handed down through generations, each accompanied by its own set of cherished stories.
Crafting the Perfect Cut Mango Pickle
While methods vary, certain key spices are essential in mango pickle preparation alongside regional variations. It all begins with selecting raw, green mangoes—the star ingredient. After washing and carefully slicing them into bite-sized pieces, mangoes are set aside to reduce excess moisture. A spice blend of mustard seeds, fenugreek, asafoetida, and red chilies is prepared, coating each mango slice in a rich amalgamation of flavors. A final drizzle of gingelly or mustard oil enriches and binds the flavors into a harmonious blend. The jar is then sealed, allowing the pickle to mature into a culinary masterpiece. Each family’s preparation method adds a unique touch to this timeless delight, making it a fascinating culinary journey.
Pairing Possibilities
Cut Mango Pickle transcends its role as a mere condiment, enhancing a variety of dishes. It complements piping hot parathas for a burst of tangy goodness and adds depth to rice or dal with just a spoonful. It elevates sandwiches from ordinary to extraordinary and pairs delightfully with dosa or idli, providing a crunchy contrast to their textures. From curries to snacks, Cut Mango Pickle effortlessly transforms everyday meals into exceptional culinary experiences. For an extra comfort, I enjoy it alongside kanji (Kerala-style porridge) and chammanthi on a weary or sick day.
Health Benefits of Cut Mango Pickle
Rich in antioxidants from raw mangoes, this pickle supports immune health and provides essential vitamins. Fenugreek aids digestion, while mustard seeds contribute healthy fats and minerals. The fermentation process in homemade versions introduces gut-friendly probiotics, promoting digestive well-being. Homemade Cut Mango Pickle ensures controlled salt usage and avoids artificial preservatives, highlighting the wholesome goodness of natural ingredients. As with any food, moderation is key to enjoying its benefits.
Crafting Cut Mango Pickle is more than following a recipe; it’s a cherished ritual. Whether savored with a simple meal or part of a grand feast, each spoonful honors tradition. Indulge not only in its taste but in the stories woven into each jar—a testament to the enduring charm of this timeless delight.
Pickle is one of the most loved sides to the meals in Indian households. There are many varieties of pickles one may make, making every kind distinct to each other due to its spice level, texture, and the main ingredient that’s ‘pickled’. And every now and then, people keep experimenting with different kinds of ingredients to come up with a unique flavour. In the heart of Kerala’s culinary traditions lies a beloved treasure: prawn pickle. Small prawns fried to perfection and made in a flavourful gravy; prawn pickle is a usual in the central part of Kerala. This delightful fusion of summer vibes and seafood flavors is a true culinary gem that captures the essence of Kerala’s vibrant food culture.
Origins and Heritage:
The story of prawn pickle traces back to ancient times, where the Dutch term “pikel” and the Persian influence of “Achar” merged to create the flavorful tradition, we know today. India’s love affair with pickles dates to 2030 BC. Kerala and Goa stand out for their unique prawn pickle variations like Chemmeen Achar and prawn balchao.
Crafted with Love and Tradition:
Prawn pickle, fondly known as ‘Chemmeen Achar’ in Malayalam, is more than just a condiment—it’s a legacy passed down through generations. The art of preparing this delicacy involves a meticulous process of marinating fresh prawns with a variety of Kerala spices, and the taste blends very well with any meal.
Versatile Delight for Every Palate:
Beyond its standalone appeal, prawn pickle is a versatile companion that elevates a variety of dishes. Whether paired with steaming hot rice, crispy dosas, fluffy appams, or even sandwiches, this spicy and savory delight adds a zesty punch to every meal. While savouring the prawn pickle, biting on small pieces of prawns is the highlight. Depending on the texture and spice level of the pickle, there are some who even have it as a curry because just the prawn pickle can serve the purpose of a complete meal.
Health Benefits Wrapped in Flavor:
While prawn pickle tantalises your taste buds, it also offers a range of health benefits. Prawns, packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, promote heart health, while the medley of spices in the pickle brings digestive and anti-inflammatory properties to the table, making it a wholesome addition to your diet. Homemade pickle will always stand out in quality and health benefits compared to the industry made pickles due to the preservatives used in the latter. While it can be addictive, it’s always great to make it a practice to consume it in moderation. If you are allergic to prawns, it’s advised to stay away from consuming it and opt for some alternate options such as tuna pickle, or cut mango pickle etc.
Preserving Culinary Traditions:
The love for prawn pickle goes beyond its taste—it’s about preserving cultural traditions. One of the usual scenes we have grown up seeing is how Amma used to sit with a bowl of prawns washed thoroughly and extracted out of its skin neatly. The technique is very satisfying to watch, and it takes a skilled pair of hands to clean the prawns the right way, also devening it. Passed down through generations, each jar of prawn pickle holds not just flavors but stories and techniques safeguarded and cherished, offering a taste of Kerala’s coastal heritage in every bite. Whether enjoyed as a standalone delight or paired with a meal, prawn pickle invites you to explore the vibrant tastes and cultural richness of Kerala’s culinary tapestry.