Pickles, or “achar” as they are known in many parts of India, have been a part of the culinary tradition for centuries. While fruit and vegetable pickles are common in households, non-vegetarian pickles bring a unique twist to the typical pickle experience. These pickles are made with meat, often chicken, mutton, fish, or prawns, and are marinated with a blend of spices and oils that infuse the meat with intense flavors. Non-veg pickles are particularly popular in regions like Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, and they have become a beloved dish for many.
In this blog, we will explore what non-veg pickles are, the types of non-veg pickles you can try, how they are made, and why they are such a cherished addition to your meal.
What is Non-Veg Pickle?
Non-veg pickles are pickled dishes made with various types of meat—be it chicken, mutton, fish, or prawns. The meat is typically marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, such as mustard seeds, fenugreek, garlic, ginger, and turmeric, along with a generous amount of oil to preserve it. The oil acts as a preservative, while the spices give the pickle its bold, tangy, and savory flavor. Some non-veg pickles are also infused with vinegar or tamarind for an added tang.
Unlike traditional pickles made from fruits or vegetables, non-veg pickles are often cooked or lightly fried before being marinated. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat thoroughly and gives the pickle a richer taste and texture.
Types of Non-Veg Pickles
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Chicken Pickle:
- One of the most popular non-veg pickles, chicken pickle is made by marinating boneless chicken in a combination of spices, garlic, and vinegar. The chicken is then cooked in oil until tender and preserved. The oil helps retain the chicken’s flavor and moisture, making it a delicious accompaniment to rice or parathas.
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Mutton Pickle:
- Mutton pickles are often considered a delicacy in many South Indian homes. Lamb or goat meat is marinated with an array of spices and vinegar, then cooked until it is tender and packed with flavor. The richness of the mutton, combined with the bold spices, creates a pickle that is spicy and tangy, making it a perfect side dish for chapati or rice.
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Fish Pickle:
- Fish pickles, particularly those made with fatty fish like mackerel or sardines, are popular in coastal regions of India. The fish is cleaned, cut into pieces, and then marinated with spices like red chili powder, turmeric, and mustard seeds. The fish is then cooked in oil, which helps preserve the fish and infuse it with a flavorful, tangy marinade.
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Prawn Pickle:
- Prawn or shrimp pickle is another favorite in coastal areas. The prawns are cleaned, marinated with spices, and then sautéed in oil, sometimes with the addition of tamarind for extra tang. This pickle is full of flavor and is ideal for pairing with hot steamed rice or dosas.
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Egg Pickle:
- Although not as common as other non-veg pickles, egg pickle made with hard-boiled eggs is a quick and tasty option. The eggs are marinated with a spicy mix of chili powder, mustard seeds, and tamarind, then cooked in oil until the eggs absorb the tangy flavors of the marinade.
How to Make Non-Veg Pickles: A Simple Recipe for Chicken Pickle
Let’s walk through a basic recipe for making chicken pickle that will give you a taste of how these pickles are made. Feel free to experiment with different meats and adjust the spices based on your preferences.
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken (cut into small pieces)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2 teaspoons red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste (optional, for extra tang)
- 1/4 cup sesame oil or any other cooking oil
- Salt to taste
- 2-3 dried red chilies
- 1-2 teaspoons fenugreek seeds (optional)
Instructions:
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Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Add the vinegar and tamarind paste, and mix well. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour for the flavors to develop.
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Cook the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and fenugreek seeds (if using). Once the mustard seeds start to crackle, add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Cook the chicken on medium heat until it is tender and the oil starts to separate from the spices. This could take about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.
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Simmer and Preserve:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, allow it to cool slightly. Transfer the pickle into a clean, dry jar. Pour extra oil over the pickle to cover the chicken, as this will help preserve it for a longer time.
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Let It Rest:
- For the best flavor, let the pickle sit for 2-3 days, allowing the spices to infuse into the chicken. The pickle will develop more flavor over time.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Chicken pickle can be enjoyed with hot rice, parathas, chapatis, or as an accompaniment to your meals.
Why Non-Veg Pickles Are Loved
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Rich in Flavor:
- Non-veg pickles are known for their rich, intense flavors that come from the combination of meat, spices, and oil. They are much more flavorful than vegetable or fruit-based pickles, and the marination process helps the meat absorb all the spices, making every bite a burst of taste.
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Long Shelf Life:
- The oil and vinegar used in non-veg pickles act as preservatives, allowing these pickles to last for weeks, sometimes even months, when stored properly. This makes them perfect for preparing in advance and enjoying over time.
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Perfect Pairing with Meals:
- Non-veg pickles are an excellent way to elevate any meal. Whether served with rice, roti, dosa, or even curd, the pickles add a spicy, tangy contrast that complements the richness of the main dish.
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Great for Special Occasions:
- Non-veg pickles are often made during festivals or special occasions, making them a treat that everyone looks forward to. They are also commonly served at weddings or large gatherings, where they are enjoyed by guests along with a variety of other dishes.
Conclusion
Non-veg pickles are a flavorful and savory snack that adds excitement to any meal. Whether you enjoy chicken, mutton, fish, or prawn pickles, these dishes bring a whole new level of richness and tang to the table. The beauty of these pickles lies in their ability to preserve the taste of the meat while enhancing it with the bold flavors of spices, oil, and vinegar.
Next time you’re looking to spice up your meal, consider adding a homemade non-veg pickle to your plate. The depth of flavor and the unique taste will surely make your meal more memorable!