We've all been there - you've relished the last tangy bite of your favourite pickle, but the jar still holds a treasure trove of flavorful masala. Instead of letting it go to waste, why not put it to delicious use? With a little creativity, you can transform this leftover masala into a variety of homemade delights that will tantalise your taste buds. It's an effortless and economical way to minimise food waste while indulging your cravings whenever they strike.
How can I use pickle masala?
The beauty of this approach lies in its versatility – you can use any leftover pickle juice or masala you have on hand. From fiery chilli to zesty mango, the possibilities are endless! Here are some innovative ways to incorporate this flavorful treasure into your culinary adventures:
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Stuffings for Parathas: Imagine biting into a warm, flaky paratha, only to be greeted by a burst of tantalising flavours from the stuffing within. By blending the leftover pickle masala with sattu (roasted gram flour) or mashed potatoes, you can create a filling that will transport your taste buds to a world of deliciousness. The tangy masala will infuse each bite with a burst of flavour, making every paratha a mouth-watering experience.
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Achari Curries: There's nothing quite like indulging in a rich, creamy curry that packs a punch of tangy flavours. Enliven your favourite curries with the tangy kick of pickle masala, and watch as they transform into a symphony of flavours that will leave you craving for more. Try making Achari Paneer using mango pickle masala for a delightful twist on a classic dish that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
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Tangy Pickle Rice: Sometimes, the simplest dishes can be the most satisfying. Infuse cooked rice with the leftover pickle masala, along with some fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice, and you'll have a flavorful and tangy rice dish that will transport you to a cosy Indian kitchen. Served as a main or a side, this tangy rice will become a go-to comfort food that will leave you feeling nostalgic and content.
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Puri Variations: Who doesn't love biting into a crispy, golden puri and savouring the crunch? Add a zesty twist to your puris by incorporating chilli pickle masala into the dough. Each crispy puri will pack an extra punch of flavour, making it the perfect accompaniment to your favourite curries or chutneys. Prepare to be delighted with every bite.
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Pickle Masala Chutneys: Chutneys are the unsung heroes of Indian cuisine, adding a burst of flavour to any dish they grace. Blend the leftover masala with curd, fresh mint leaves, and fiery green chillies to create a tangy, spicy chutney that will elevate your snacking experience. Whether you're dipping crispy pakoras or spreading it on a sandwich, this chutney will become your new go-to condiment.
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Flavoured Raitas: Raitas are the perfect accompaniment to spicy curries, offering a cooling respite from the heat. Mix the pickle masala into plain raita (yoghurt dip) for a burst of flavour that perfectly complements spicy curries or biryani. Imagine the contrast of the cool, creamy raita with the tangy masala – a match made in flavour heaven.
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Masala Bhajis: Vegetable bhajis (fritters) are a classic Indian snack that never fails to delight. Incorporate the leftover pickle masala into the batter for onion bhaji, cauliflower bhaji, or mixed veggie bhaji, and you'll be rewarded with a tangy twist that will have you savouring every crispy bite. Prepare to be transported to a bustling street food stall with each flavour-packed bhaji.
- Pickle Masala Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables are a healthy and delicious way to enjoy nature's bounty. Toss diced vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, carrots, or Brussels sprouts with the pickle masala and roast them in the oven for a flavorful side dish that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!). The masala will caramelise during the roasting process, creating a depth of flavour that will elevate even the humblest of veggies.
The Simple Steps to Follow:
- Identify your ingredients- Whether it's paneer, potatoes, or sattu, select your base ingredient(s) for infusion with the leftover pickle masala.
- Prepare your dish- Depending on your chosen ingredient(s), you can incorporate the leftover pickle masala into various recipes. For instance, mix it with mashed sattu for stuffed parathas, or blend it into a curry for an extra punch of flavour.
- Experiment with spices- If desired, complement the pickle masala with additional spices to enhance its taste. You can include garlic, ginger, or even whole spices like cumin seeds and mustard seeds for added complexity.
Conclusion
With these simple yet inventive ideas, you can transform leftover pickle masala into an array of mouth-watering dishes. So, the next time you're left with that precious jar of pickle masala, embrace your creativity!
If you're not inclined to whip up your own homemade pickles, explore our online store for a diverse selection of delicious Indian pickles.