Green chili pickle, with its fiery and tangy flavors, is a staple in Indian households. It not only elevates the taste of your meals but also offers numerous health benefits. Learn how to prepare Green chili flavorful condiment at home, along with its surprising benefits and its integral role in Indian cuisine.
Homemade Green Chili Pickle Recipe:
Ingredients:
Fresh green chilies: 250 grams (thick and firm ones)
Mustard oil: 1 cup
Mustard seeds: 2 tablespoons (coarsely ground)
Fennel seeds: 1 tablespoon (coarsely ground)
Fenugreek seeds: 1 teaspoon (coarsely ground)
Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon
Red chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional for extra heat)
Salt: To taste
Lemon juice: 2–3 tablespoons
Asafoetida (Hing): A pinch
Instructions:
Prepare the chilies:
Wash the green chilies thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean cloth.
Slit them lengthwise, leaving the bottom intact.
Prepare the spices:
Lightly roast mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and fenugreek seeds, then coarsely grind them.
Mix these spices with turmeric, red chili powder, and salt.
Stuff the chilies:
Carefully fill the spice mixture into the slit green chilies.
Prepare the oil:
Heat mustard oil until it reaches its smoking point, then let it cool. Add asafoetida for an aromatic touch.
Assemble the pickle:
Place the stuffed chilies in a clean, dry glass jar. Pour the cooled mustard oil over the chilies until fully submerged.
Sun-dry:
Keep the jar in sunlight for 3–4 days, shaking it daily to ensure even mixing.
Ready to serve:
After 4 days, your homemade green chili pickle is ready to add a punch of flavor to your meals!
Health Benefits of Green Chili Pickle:
Boosts Digestion:
The spices and mustard oil aid in improving digestion and gut health.
Rich in Antioxidants:
Green chilies are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants that strengthen immunity.
Stimulates Appetite:
The tangy and spicy flavors enhance your appetite.
Long Shelf Life:
Properly made pickles can be stored for months, retaining their flavor and nutrients.
Packed with Nutrients:
A good source of iron, potassium, and dietary fiber, green chili pickle contributes to overall health.
Significance of Pickles in Indian Cuisine
Green chili pickle is more than just a condiment; it’s a cultural treasure in Indian cuisine.
Enhances Meal Experience:
Pickles pair wonderfully with rice, bread, and flatbreads, adding a burst of flavor.
Cultural Heritage:
The art of pickle-making has been passed down through generations, preserving traditional recipes.
Represents Food Preservation:
Pickling is a classic method to preserve food, ensuring its availability throughout the year.
Flavor Balancer:
Pickles bring a perfect balance of tanginess and spiciness to Indian meals.
Homemade green chili pickle is the perfect blend of taste, tradition, and health. With its simple preparation, long shelf life, and incredible health benefits, it’s a must-have in every Indian kitchen.
So why wait? Try this easy recipe and spice up your meals with a touch of Indian heritage.