Kitchen Hacks: Tips to make perfect Mango Pickle at home

Mango pickles are a quintessential part of Indian cuisine. An Indian fare is incomplete without a spoonful of pickle by its side. The tangy, spicy, and aromatic flavors of homemade mango pickles can elevate any meal and evoke memories of long lasting family traditions. Mango pickle, however, involves many stages including cutting the raw mangoes, marinating them with seasoning and the final sun-drying; and all these steps should be carried out with perfection to get the most amazing mango pickle.
Selection of mango is the key
The key to crafting impeccable mango pickles lies in selecting the perfect mangoes. The unique flavor profile of these raw mangoes enhance the taste and texture of the pickles. The ideal mangoes should be raw, firm, and slightly sour. In earlier times, when mango pickles were made in every household by grandmothers and mothers, pickle making was a community affair with all ladies sitting together in the courtyard to cut the raw mangoes. The culinary journey of mango pickle preparation begins with washing, peeling and cutting the mangoes to the right size. Consistent cutting is a must so that all the mangoes can cook uniformly.
Also Read:15 famous mango varieties in India and how to identify them

Spice it up with perfect seasoning
Next comes the very important step of marinating the raw cut mangoes with the most amazing spices. No mango pickle is complete without the aromatic blend of spices and seasonings. The seasoning used in mango pickles is time-tested with grandmother and mothers across generations have been using these spices to make mouth-watering mango pickles. Take small quantities of mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, turmeric, asafoetida, red chili powder to create a heady concoction of this magic potion. Increase the quantity of spices if you have huge quantities of raw cut mangoes. Add salt as per taste and the seasoning is ready to be mixed to the cut raw mangoes. Each spice plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of the pickles, giving it a distinctive taste of authentic mango pickle. Once the mango pieces are mixed with the spices and seasonings, allow them to marinate for a few hours or days. This process enables the mangoes to fully absorb the flavors of the spices resulting in a harmonious blend of tangy, spicy, and savory notes that tantalize the taste buds.

Also Read: 10-minute recipes that can be made with ripe mangoes
Goodness of sun-drying
After the cut raw mangoes are mixed with the goodness of spices, the first burst of aroma already fills the house. And the process is half-completed. Now the next important step is to put these marinated mangoes inside big jars. In earlier days, pickles were stored in big white porcelain jars. However, in modern times a glass jar or even a food-grade plastic jar works fine. Sun-drying not only enhances the flavors but also aids in preserving the mango pickles for an extended period. After sun-drying it for a couple of days, the mango pickle is ready to be served. Store the pickles in a cool, dry place in airtight containers to maintain their freshness and taste.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pickles
1. To ensure the success of your mango pickles, prioritize hygiene, use clean and dry utensils, and store the pickles in airtight containers. These simple tips will help you create delectable mango pickles that are sure to impress your family and friends.
2. Last but not the least, mango pickles also come with health benefits. These dollops with heavenly-tasteful pickles aid digestion besides adding a zingy flavor to every meal. Pair your mango pickles with rice, roti, or curries for a burst of flavor that enhances any dish.
Contributed by: Harpal Singh Gulati, founder, Martban Pickles

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