Sweet mango pickle, or “Inippu Maambazha Oorugai,” is a delightful accompaniment to many South Indian meals. This tangy and sweet pickle pairs beautifully with rice, chapati, or even as a spread on sandwiches. Here’s a simple recipe to prepare sweet mango pickle in a traditional Tamil style.
Ingredients
- Raw mangoes: 500 grams (firm and green)
- Salt: 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon
- Red chili powder: 1 tablespoon (adjust for spice level)
- Fenugreek seeds: 1 teaspoon (coarsely powdered)
- Fennel seeds: 1 teaspoon (coarsely powdered)
- Mustard seeds: 1 teaspoon (coarsely powdered)
- Jaggery: 100 grams (grated or powdered)
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
- Asafoetida (hing): a pinch (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mangoes:
- Wash the raw mangoes thoroughly and dry them completely using a clean cloth.
- Cut the mangoes into small pieces, discarding the seed. You can peel them if you prefer, but keeping the skin adds texture.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mango pieces, salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coarsely powdered fenugreek, fennel, and mustard seeds.
- Mix well, ensuring that the mango pieces are evenly coated with the spices.
- Add Jaggery and Lemon Juice:
- Add the grated jaggery to the mixture. The jaggery will give the pickle its characteristic sweetness.
- Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and mix again. The acidity of the lemon juice complements the sweetness of the jaggery.
- Fermentation Process:
- Transfer the mixture to a clean, dry glass jar. Ensure that the jar is airtight.
- Leave the jar in a warm place for 3 to 5 days. Shake the jar gently once a day to help the flavors meld together.
- Storage:
- Once the mango pickle has fermented to your liking, store it in the refrigerator. It can last for several weeks due to the salt and acidity from the lemon juice.
Enjoy Your Sweet Mango Pickle!
Your sweet mango pickle is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it alongside your favorite South Indian dishes, like rice, dosa, or idli. This pickle not only enhances the flavors of your meals but also brings a nice balance of sweet and tangy to your palate.Tips
- Choose the Right Mango: Opt for firm, raw mangoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of jaggery based on your sweetness preference.
- Experiment with Spices: You can add other spices like a pinch of asafoetida for extra flavor.