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Nothing beats the tangy, spicy flavor of homemade green chili pickle (Mirch Ka Achar). This traditional Indian condiment adds a burst of flavor to any meal and is surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious, preservative-free pickle that will elevate your meals to new heights
Why Make Green Chili Pickle at Home?
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Freshness | Homemade pickles are made with fresh ingredients, ensuring the best taste and quality. |
| No Preservatives | Unlike store-bought versions, homemade pickles are free from artificial preservatives and additives. |
| Customizable | You can adjust the spice levels and flavors to suit your taste preferences. |
| Traditional Taste | Homemade pickles carry the authentic flavors of traditional recipes passed down through generations. |
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh green chilies | 250 grams |
| Mustard seeds | 2 tablespoons |
| Fenugreek seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (hing) | A pinch |
| Lemon juice | 1 cup |
| Mustard oil | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
Step-by-Step Recipe for Green Chili Pickle
1. Prepare the Chilies
Start by washing the green chilies thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Make sure there is no moisture left on the chilies as it can spoil the pickle. Cut the chilies into 1-inch pieces, or you can slit them lengthwise if you prefer.
2. Roast the Seeds
In a dry pan, roast the mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds over medium heat until they turn aromatic. Be careful not to burn them. Once roasted, let the seeds cool down completely. Grind them into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
3. Mix the Spices
In a large bowl, combine the chopped green chilies, ground mustard and fenugreek seeds, turmeric powder, and asafoetida. Mix everything well to ensure the spices coat the chilies evenly.
4. Add Lemon Juice
Pour the lemon juice over the chili mixture. Lemon juice acts as a natural preservative and adds a tangy flavor to the pickle. Mix everything well and let it sit for about 30 minutes.
5. Heat the Mustard Oil
Heat the mustard oil in a pan until it reaches its smoking point. Turn off the heat and let the oil cool down slightly. This step is crucial as it helps reduce the pungency of the mustard oil.
6. Combine Everything
Pour the slightly cooled mustard oil over the chili mixture. Stir well to ensure all the chilies are coated with the oil and spices.
7. Store the Pickle
Transfer the pickle to a clean, dry glass jar. Seal the jar tightly and let it sit in a sunny spot for about 7-10 days. Shake the jar once a day to mix the contents and ensure even fermentation.
8. Enjoy Your Green Chili Pickle
After a week or so, your green chili pickle will be ready to enjoy. The chilies will have absorbed all the flavors, becoming tangy, spicy, and absolutely delicious. You can store the pickle in the refrigerator for several months.
Tips for the Perfect Mirch Ka Achar
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use Fresh Chilies | Always use fresh, firm green chilies for the best texture and flavor. |
| Sterilize Jars | Make sure your jars are clean and dry to prevent any bacterial growth. |
| Adjust Spices | Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences. |
| Sunlight Exposure | Placing the jar in sunlight helps in the natural fermentation process. |
Serving Suggestions
Green chili pickle can be served with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
- With Rice and Dal: Add a spoonful of pickle to your rice and dal for an extra kick.
- In Sandwiches: Spread a little pickle in your sandwiches to make them more flavorful.
- With Parathas: Green chili pickle is a classic accompaniment to Indian flatbreads like parathas and rotis.
- As a Side Dish: Serve it as a side dish with any Indian meal to enhance the overall taste.
Health Benefits of Green Chili Pickle
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Rich in Vitamin C | Green chilies are a great source of Vitamin C, which boosts immunity. |
| Aids Digestion | The spices used in the pickle can help improve digestion. |
| Antioxidant Properties | Chilies and mustard seeds are rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals. |
| Natural Preservative | The use of lemon juice and mustard oil acts as natural preservatives. |
Conclusion
Making your own green chili pickle at home is a rewarding experience. Not only do you get to enjoy a delicious and authentic condiment, but you also know exactly what goes into it. With fresh ingredients and a simple process, you can create a pickle that adds spice and excitement to your meals. So, why wait? Try making Mirch Ka Achar today and savor the flavors of homemade goodness.
