Mango pickle is a beloved staple in Indian cuisine, offering a blend of tangy, spicy, and flavorful elements. It enhances simple meals like rice and dal or adds an extra zing to flatbreads like parathas. Today, we explore a traditional mango pickle recipe, but with a twist—using Alphonso mangoes. Known for their rich flavor and vibrant color, Alphonso mangoes create a uniquely flavorful pickle.
Why Choose Alphonso Mangoes for Pickle?
Most pickles use raw mangoes, but Alphonso mangoes, even when unripe, bring a slight sweetness and rich aroma. This enhances the overall taste of the pickle. Renowned as the “King of Mangoes,” Alphonso mangoes have a deep flavor that perfectly complements the spices in traditional pickling.
Ingredients for Alphonso Mango Pickle
- 500g raw Alphonso mangoes (unripe, firm)
- 3 tablespoons salt
- 2 tablespoons fennel seeds (saunf)
- 2 tablespoons mustard seeds (rai)
- 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds (methi)
- 1 tablespoon nigella seeds (kalonji)
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- 1 cup mustard oil
Step-by-Step Mango Pickle Recipe
1. Prepare the Mangoes
Start by thoroughly washing and drying the Alphonso mangoes. After that, cut them into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for added texture.
2. Salt and Sun-Dry the Mangoes
Coat the mango pieces with salt and let them sit in the sun for 4-5 hours. This step removes excess moisture, which helps in preserving the pickle for a longer time.
3. Roast and Grind the Spices
Dry roast the fennel, mustard, and fenugreek seeds in a pan until they become aromatic. After cooling, coarsely grind them to enhance the pickle’s flavor.
4. Mix the Spices
In a large bowl, combine the ground spices with turmeric, red chili powder, nigella seeds, and asafoetida. This spice mix forms the core of the pickle’s flavor.
5. Add Mangoes to the Spice Mix
Toss the sun-dried mango pieces into the spice mixture, ensuring every piece is well coated with the spices.
6. Heat the Oil
Heat mustard oil until it smokes, then let it cool slightly. Pour the warm oil over the mango-spice mix. This step not only preserves the pickle but also enhances its taste.
7. Store the Pickle
Transfer the mixture into a sterilized glass jar. Make sure the mangoes are submerged in the oil. Store the jar in a cool, dry place, exposing it to sunlight for 4-5 days to deepen the flavors.
What Makes Alphonso Mango Pickle Special?
Using Alphonso mangoes creates a unique combination of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors. The richness of these mangoes adds a gourmet twist to the traditional pickle, making it a standout condiment in any meal. Although Alphonso is famous for its use in desserts, such as aamras, it works exceptionally well in savory recipes like pickles.
Best Pairings for Mango Pickle
Alphonso mango pickle pairs beautifully with:
- Rice & Dal: The pickle elevates the simple flavors of rice and lentils.
- Flatbreads: Serve it with parathas, chapatis, or rotis for an extra punch of flavor.
- Snacks: Use a spoonful of pickle to spice up any savory snack or sandwich.
Health Benefits of Mango Pickle
Mango pickle not only tastes delicious but also offers several health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Mangoes contain antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals.
- Improves Digestion: Spices like fennel and fenugreek aid digestion and improve gut health.
- Boosts Immunity: The vitamins and antioxidants found in Alphonso mangoes enhance immune function.
Storing the Pickle
Proper storage ensures that mango pickle lasts for months without losing its flavor:
- In the Pantry: Store the jar in a cool, dark place. The flavor improves as the pickle matures.
- Refrigeration: For extended freshness, keep the jar in the fridge. This method helps preserve the taste and texture for even longer.
Final Thoughts on Mango Pickle Recipe
Alphonso mango pickle is a must-try for both pickle lovers and mango enthusiasts. Its unique combination of rich sweetness and traditional spice flavors creates a memorable culinary experience. Whether you’re adding a tangy bite to your dal or savoring it with bread, this pickle is sure to become a kitchen favorite.
