Tomato pickle, also known as Tamata Pachadi in Telugu, is a beloved Indian condiment enjoyed with rice, rotis, dosas, and even sandwiches. While its tangy-spicy flavor makes it irresistible, making it long-lasting is key—especially if you’re preparing it in bulk for home use or online orders.
In this blog, we’ll cover how to make long shelf-life tomato pickle, its preservation tips, benefits, and why it’s a must-have in every Indian kitchen.
🏡 What is Tomato Pickle?
Tomato pickle is a traditional South Indian pickle made using ripe tomatoes, tamarind, red chilies, mustard seeds, garlic, and Indian spices. Unlike quick chutneys, this pickle is cooked and preserved using oil, making it suitable for storage over weeks or even months.
💡 Why Focus on Long Shelf Life?
Whether you’re a home cook or a pickle entrepreneur, longevity is important:
Ensures zero wastage
Convenient for travel or gifting
Suitable for online orders
Saves time by reducing frequent preparation
🧂 Ingredients for Long-Lasting Tomato Pickle
Here’s a traditional Andhra-style recipe made for long-lasting freshness.
Ingredients:
Ripe Tomatoes – 1 kg
Tamarind – 100g
Red Chili Powder – 100g (adjust to taste)
Salt – 100g
Turmeric – 1 tsp
Mustard Seeds – 1 tbsp
Fenugreek Seeds – 1 tsp
Garlic – 50g (optional but adds flavor)
Asafoetida (Hing) – a pinch
Cold-Pressed Gingelly/Sesame Oil – 250 ml (do not compromise here!)
🧑🍳 Recipe – Step-by-Step
1. Prepare Tamarind & Tomatoes
Soak tamarind in warm water and extract thick pulp.
Wash, chop, and cook tomatoes until soft. Do not add water.
2. Cook Down Moisture
Cook the tomato pulp on low heat to reduce moisture. This is key for long shelf life. Stir continuously to avoid burning.
3. Add Tamarind Pulp
Add tamarind pulp and cook until the mixture thickens into a paste. Moisture should be minimal.
4. Add Spices & Garlic
Add chili powder, salt, turmeric, and crushed garlic. Mix well and cook further.
5. Prepare the Tadka (Tempering)
Heat sesame oil. Add mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and asafoetida. Let mustard seeds splutter.
6. Preserve It!
Pour hot oil tempering into the tomato mixture. Stir well. Cool completely before bottling.
7. Store in Sterile Jars
Use clean, dry glass jars. Avoid plastic. Ensure no moisture is trapped inside.
🧊 Storage Tips for Long-Lasting Freshness
Use Cold-Pressed Sesame Oil – Natural preservative and enhances shelf life.
Always Use a Dry Spoon – Prevents mold or bacteria.
Refrigerate for Long Term – Lasts up to 3–4 months.
Store at Room Temp (Short Term) – In a cool, dark place, it lasts up to 1 month.
Avoid Water Contact – Even a drop can spoil the entire batch.
🍱 Where to Use Tomato Pickle?
With hot rice and ghee
Alongside curd rice
Spread on chapatis, sandwiches
With dosa or idli
As a tiffin companion for office/school
🧬 Nutritional Value (Per Tablespoon approx.)
Nutrient | Value |
---|---|
Calories | 35–50 kcal |
Fat | 3–4g |
Carbohydrates | 2–3g |
Fiber | 0.5–1g |
Vitamin C | Moderate |
Antioxidants | High |
🌿 Health Benefits of Tomato Pickle
✅ 1. Boosts Digestion
Thanks to garlic, mustard, and fenugreek, this pickle aids digestion.
✅ 2. Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes and spices are loaded with antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress.
✅ 3. Natural Probiotic Properties
When naturally fermented slightly, pickles can support gut health.
✅ 4. Appetite Enhancer
The spicy-sour combo helps stimulate appetite—especially useful in summer or recovery from illness.
🌐 Tomato Pickle in Different Languages
Language | Name |
---|---|
Telugu | టమోటా పచ్చడి or ఉరగాయ |
Tamil | தக்காளி ஊறுகாய் |
Kannada | ಟೊಮೆಟೊ ಉಪ್ಪಿನಕಾಯಿ |
Hindi | टमाटर का अचार |
Malayalam | തക്കാളി അച്ചാർ |
🛒 Buy Tomato Pickle Online
Looking for authentic homemade tomato pickle online?
Visit MeenakshiRecipe.com for:
Tomato Pickle (with or without garlic)
Freshly made with cold-pressed oil
Shipped across India & internationally
Available in 100g, 250g, 500g, and 1kg jars
Special Packaging Available for Abroad Orders
📝 Final Thoughts
Tomato pickle is more than just a side—it’s a tradition, a comfort food, and a reminder of home. When prepared with the right technique and ingredients, it can be stored for months and enjoyed with various meals.
Whether you’re a home cook or a pickle lover looking to order online, a well-made, long-lasting tomato pickle is worth every bite!