Spicy Indian Mango Pickle: The BEST Easy Homemade Achar!

Spicy Indian mango pickle is a vibrant explosion of flavor, sunshine in a jar. This achar, a staple in Indian cuisine, is more than just a condiment; it’s a memory. My grandmother always had a jar of it fermenting on the windowsill, the spicy aroma a constant invitation to sneak a taste (or two!). The recipe is a testament to preserving the bounty of summer, transforming tart green mangoes into something truly special and that’s the spicy Indian mango pickle I’m going to share with you today!

Why You Will Love This spicy Indian mango pickle Recipe

This spicy Indian mango pickle recipe captures the essence of tradition while being surprisingly simple to make at home. Forget store bought versions filled with artificial preservatives; this homemade mango achar is packed with authentic flavors and spices. It’s also incredibly versatile adding a fiery kick to everything from simple rice and dal to grilled cheese sandwiches. The process of making it is almost meditative, a fragrant journey into the heart of Indian cooking. Follow us on Pinterest for more delicious recipes!

Ingredients Needed for This spicy Indian mango pickle Recipe

• For the Mango Pickle:

* 2 lbs Green Mangoes, peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces * 4 tbsp Mustard Seeds * 2 tbsp Fenugreek Seeds * 1 tbsp Turmeric Powder * 1 tbsp Red Chili Powder (adjust to taste) * 1 tsp Asafoetida (hing) * 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil * 1/4 cup Salt (adjust to taste) * 2 tbsp finely chopped garlic (optional) * 1 tbsp grated ginger (optional)

How to Make This spicy Indian mango pickle Recipe

1. 1. Prepare the Spices: Dry roast mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds in a pan over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Let them cool completely.
2. 2. Grind the Spices: Grind the roasted mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds into a coarse powder using a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle.
3. 3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped mangoes, ground spice mixture, turmeric powder, red chili powder, asafoetida, salt, chopped garlic, and ginger (if using). Mix well, ensuring that all the mango pieces are coated evenly with the spices.
4. 4. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a small pan until it is hot but not smoking. Let it cool slightly.
5. 5. Pour the Oil: Pour the slightly cooled oil over the mango mixture. Mix well.
6. 6. Transfer to a Jar: Transfer the mango pickle mixture to a clean, dry, and sterilized glass jar. Make sure the jar is completely dry to prevent mold growth.
7. 7. Press Down: Press down the mixture in the jar to remove any air pockets. The oil should cover the mango pieces.
8. 8. Sun Dry (Optional): For a more traditional flavor, you can sun dry the pickle for 3-4 days. Cover the jar with a muslin cloth and keep it in a sunny spot during the day. Bring it inside at night. This helps to ferment the pickle and enhance its flavor. If you choose not to sun dry, you can skip this step.
9. 9. Fermenting: If not sun drying, keep the jar in a cool, dark place.
10. 10. Wait Patiently! Allow the spicy Indian mango pickle to ferment for at least 1-2 weeks before consuming. This allows the flavors to meld and develop.
11. 11. Enjoy! After a week or two, your spicy Indian mango pickle will be ready to enjoy! Use a clean, dry spoon to take out the pickle each time to prevent contamination. This recipe is the perfect condiment alongside dal and rice, or try it with Fresh Mango Salad for a cohesive culinary experience. If you want to expand your spicy repertoire try pairing with Spicy Cajun Pasta.

How to Serve This spicy Indian mango pickle Recipe

Spicy Indian mango pickle is best served as a condiment alongside Indian meals. A small spoonful is all you need to add a burst of flavor to rice, dal, roti, or paratha. You can also use it to spice up your favorite sandwiches or wraps. For a more adventurous approach, try adding a little to your cheese board or serving it with grilled meats. The possibilities are endless! Think about using a homemade mango achar as a relish with grilled chicken or fish, providing a pleasant bite with slightly sweet and spicy undertones.

How to Store This spicy Indian mango pickle Recipe

• Refrigeration: Store the spicy Indian mango pickle in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This will help to preserve its flavor and prevent spoilage.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the mangoes.
• Shelf Life: When stored properly in the refrigerator, this spicy Indian mango pickle can last for several months, even up to a year. Always use a clean, dry spoon when taking out the pickle to prevent contamination. The oil should always cover the mango pieces; if it doesn’t, add a little more vegetable oil to the jar.

Tips to Make This spicy Indian mango pickle Recipe

• Mango Selection: Choose unripe, firm green mangoes for the best results. The mangoes should be tart and slightly sour.
• Spice Adjustments: Adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice preference.

* For a milder pickle, use less chili powder and reduce the amount of mustard seeds. * For a spicier pickle, add more chili powder or use a hotter variety.

• Oil Quality: Use good quality vegetable oil, such as gingelly (sesame) oil, groundnut oil or mustard oil for the best flavor.
• Dry Ingredients: Make sure all the ingredients, especially the mangoes and the jar, are completely dry before starting. This will help to prevent mold growth and extend the shelf life of the pickle.

Helpful Notes for This spicy Indian mango pickle Recipe

• Sterilizing the Jar: Sterilize the glass jar by boiling it in water for 10-15 minutes. This will kill any bacteria and prevent spoilage.
• Asafoetida (Hing): Asafoetida has a strong, pungent smell, but it adds a unique flavor to the pickle. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or substitute it with a small amount of garlic paste.
• Salt: Salt is an important ingredient in the pickle-making process. It helps to preserve the mangoes and draw out any excess moisture. Adjust the amount of salt according to your taste preference. This is the base to your homemade mango achar.
• For a really flavorful and spicy treat, consider serving with Spicy Loaded Fries

Variation of This spicy Indian mango pickle Recipe

• Sweet and Spicy Mango Pickle: Add a little sugar or jaggery (Indian unrefined sugar) to the pickle for a sweet and spicy flavor.
• Garlic and Ginger Mango Pickle: Increase the amount of garlic and ginger for a more pungent flavor. You can even add some green chilies for extra heat.
• Lime Mango Pickle: Add a few tablespoons of lime juice to the pickle for a tangy flavor.
• Mixed Vegetable Pickle: You can also add other vegetables to the pickle, such as carrots, cauliflower, or green beans.

Conclusion

Making your own spicy Indian mango pickle is a truly rewarding experience. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a connection to traditions passed down through generations. So, gather your ingredients, put on some good music, and get ready to create a jar of sunshine that will brighten up any meal. I encourage you to try making this spicy Indian mango pickle. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spice levels and flavors to make it your own. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below!

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