In the world of culinary delights, few things can match the mouthwatering tang and the explosion of flavours offered by a good old-fashioned mango pickle, or as it is popularly known as aam ka meetha achar. This traditional Indian delicacy has been an integral part of Indian cuisine for centuries, adding a burst of freshness and a tangy twist to meals.
Origins and Cultural Significance
Historical records indicate that the art of making pickles in India dates back to over 4,000 years. The practice of pickling mangoes gained immense popularity during the Mughal era, when emperors and royalty relished the exotic taste of aam ka meetha achar. Over time, various regional variations of the pickle emerged, each infused with its unique blend of spices and flavours, reflecting the culinary diversity of India.
Easy Homemade Sweet Mango Pickle Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large raw mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup mustard oil
- 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 1/2 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 tablespoon asafoetida
- 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat the mustard oil in a pan until it smokes. Let it cool to room temperature.
- In a separate dry pan, roast the mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds until they turn aromatic. Grind them into a coarse powder.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mangoes, mustard oil, roasted spice powder, red chilli powder, turmeric, asafoetida, minced garlic, minced ginger, and salt.
- Mix everything thoroughly and transfer it to a clean, dry glass jar.
- Close the jar with a tight-fitting lid and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least a week to allow the flavours to meld.
Health Benefits of Sweet Mango Pickle
Sweet mango pickle not only tantalises your taste buds but also offers several health benefits:
- Excellent Antioxidant Content: Mango pickle is loaded with antioxidants and protects the body from oxidative damage. Antioxidants are preserved in this pickle because raw mangoes are pickled freshly without cooking.
- Rich with Nutrients: Mango is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fibre. And also, the spice content in this pickle has an excellent nutrient profile.
- Boosts Immunity: Consuming pickles in safe quantities helps the body in receiving the right levels of nutrients for keeping the body healthy. Mango also contains essential nutrients like B vitamins, copper, folate, and Vitamin E which are very effective immunity boosters.
- Good for Hair and Skin: The goodness of Vitamin C in mango pickles makes them an ideal condiment for enhancing skin and hair health. The presence of Vitamin C produces more collagen which helps in deep cleansing the skin and also keeps it radiant and soft.
- Improves Digestion: It aids in healthy bowel movement and improves the functioning of the digestive system. The enzymes present in this pickle break down the protein content in the body and provide protection against stomach-related issues.
- Maintains Blood Pressure: Magnesium and potassium present in mangoes and spices keep the blood pressure levels under check. The helpful compounds of this pickle are useful in preventing hypertension and can possibly promote heart health.
- Helps in Weight Loss: The good dietary fibre content of this pickle keeps the digestive tract healthy. It also keeps your stomach fuller for a longer duration of time and frees you from excess eating. Thus, a delicious pickle can help you in shedding some kilos along with relishing this succulent pickle.
Storage Tips
To preserve the freshness and flavour of your sweet mango pickle, follow these storage tips:
- Store the pickle in an airtight container.
- Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Ensure that the pickle is completely immersed in oil to prevent spoilage.
Conclusion
Mango pickle, with its tantalising flavours and numerous health benefits, is a beloved condiment in Indian cuisine. Whether enjoyed with traditional dishes or as a delightful accompaniment to modern meals, it never fails to add a burst of flavour and a touch of nostalgia. With readily available options and easy-to-follow recipes, you can relish the taste of sweet mango pickle throughout the year while reaping its many health advantages. So, go ahead, savour this succulent pickle, and enhance both your meals and your well-being.
Farmdidi also has a wide range of homemade pickles, chutneys and organic honeys to give your pantry that extra edge! You can check them out here!
