Indian Pickles
Indian Pickles -Intrinsic part of Indian Culinary Heritage.
Pickle is the food item that instantly reminds one of home and most asked package to carry overseas. There are many iconic dishes which come to mind whenever we discuss the Cuisines of India. When you think of Indian Pickles, the amazing experience of spicy and tangy flavour with the tempting aroma makes you mouthwatering. Be it vegetarian or non-vegetarian, completing a meal with curd rice and pickles is so addictive and fulfilling. That's why the Pickle is considered the king of accompaniments..
Pickling
Pickling is a culinary practice used for preservation of foods in most countries; however, in India, Pickling is not only a preservation technique, it is a culinary art of our Indian Cuisine that requires skill, patience, and sense of flavour. The mouth watering Pickle recipes are preserved and have been passed down through generations. The grandmas are the expert artists of this incredible recipe. Most vegetables grown in India are used to make pickles. Mango, Lemon , Garlic, Amla, mixed vegetables, Jackfruit, Jackfruit, Curry Leaves, Dates, Gongura, Tomato, Turnips, Ginger, Drumsticks, Brinjals (Aubergines), Ivy gourd, Bamboo Shoot, Raja Mirchi, Beetroot, carrot, etc. are some of the unique and delicious regional varieties of pickles are made by Indians. Mango and lemon are the most common pickles. We have many varieties of mango starting from avakkai to Maavadu. Indian Pickles have a diverse range of flavours and unique taste .
History of Pickling
The name "pickle" is derived from the Dutch word "pekel" or the northern German word "pókel," which means "salt" or "brine." which is an essential component of pickling. The history of pickling can be traced back to 4000 years ago, when it was a means of preserving food for long periods of time. Historically, pickling was a necessity to preserve foods for sailors and travelers. Pickle is called Uppinakaayi in Kannada, Pachadi in Telugu, Urkai in Tamil, Uppilittathu in Malayalam, Loncha in Marathi, Athanu in Gujarati, and Achar in Hindi.
Process of Pickling
Process of pickling involves cutting and chopping required vegetables and fruits which are immersed in a mixture of spices, salt, and oil, which not only preserves the food, it keeps the pickles fresh and also enhances its flavour and texture. Finally the jar of pickles are stored in a place where sufficient sunlight is available. Once preserved, the pickle will not need refrigeration, and so it is ideal for long-distance journeys.
Varieties of Pickles
Mango Pickle
Mango pickle is one of the earliest known pickles in India which is believed to have medicinal properties. The raw mangoes are chopped and marinated with a mixture of spices and then kept in sunlight for a few days . The amazing tangy and spicy mango pickle thus became a staple in Indian households. Buy Mango Pickle Online in the UK from Lakshmi Stores, UK.
Lemon Pickle
It is said that having small quantities of lemon pickle with each meal is ideal for a healthy immune system. Lemon pickle is made with a blend of fresh lemons, sesame oil and aromatic spices . It goes great with curd rice, Indian curries, dal, and rice. Buy Lemon Pickle Online from Lakshmi stores, UK.
Garlic Pickle
Garlic pickle is made using garlic cloves that are marinated in a blend of spices that includes mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and chilli powder. Garlic pickle has a strong, pungent flavour and an amazing taste. Garlic has numerous health benefits which cannot be taken raw and hence this garlic pickle will be a good option.
Mixed Vegetable Pickle
There are certain pickles which can be made anytime in the year and are not specific to any state. One such pickle is mixed vegetable Pickle. Mixed vegetable pickle is made using a variety of vegetables, including carrots, ginger, radish and green chilies. The vegetables are Chopped and mixed with cumin, coriander, and turmeric. This pickle has a sweet and sour flavour, and is a great accompaniment to rice dishes.
Gongura Pickle
Gongura pickle is a popular and unique pickle from Andhra Pradesh It is made using gongura leaves, a type of sour leafy green. The tasty Gongura pickle has the taste and flavour from the choice of Gongura leaves . The leaves are chopped and mixed with a blend of sesame oil, spices, including red and green chillies. Gongura pickle has a smooth tangy and sour flavour, and is commonly eaten with rice dishes and lentils. It stays well for over 6 months when stored in a clean air tight container. Buy Gongura Pickle Online from Lakshmi Stores, UK.
Jackfruit pickle
Jackfruit pickle is a delicious pickle that is made from the ripe flesh of jackfruit cut into small pieces that is flavoured with a blend of spices and herbs. The mixture is then allowed to marinate for a few days to get a unique aroma, sweet and sour taste. It is a great accompaniment and adds a burst of flavour to any dish.
Tips to ensure the Indian pickles stay fresh and delicious:
Storing Indian pickles properly is important to keeping them fresh and flavourful. With proper storage and care Indian pickles last long.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place.
- Use a clean, dry spoon to avoid contamination.
- Keep the container air tightly closed.
Benefits of Pickle
During pickling some fermentation takes place and probiotics are created which is good for the gut and control the harmful microorganism of our body. Pickling keeps the vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants within as they are uncooked and hence helps to absorb vitamins A, B and C which stimulates our immune system.
Where to buy Indian Pickles in the UK?
A2B Pickles in UK
To add spice and tanginess to your meals Lakshmi Stores is the best Indian Online Supermarket in the UK has an exclusive range of A2B Pickles and Thokku in the Uk. These pickles and Thokku are prepared with the traditional method with utmost care and hygiene. Buy Indian Pickles Online in the UK from our store and enjoy your every meal.