Tamarind plays a significant role in Indian cuisine and offers a wealth of health advantages. It is also a treasure trove of antioxidants and dietary fibers. The acidic and sweetish flavor is a favorite among Indians, who use it to make chutney, relish, digestive candies, pickles, and other dishes.I have loved tamarind pickles since I was a child but never understood the recipe. I’m grateful to my brother-in-law, who found the recipe and enabled me to have this relish again after such a long absence. This is a traditional Jain dish from the coastal region and a family recipe of one of our friends from Mangalore.
Ingredients For Tamarind Pickle:
250 grams of tamarind
1 cup of jaggery
2 tablespoons of red chili powder
1 tablespoon of salt
1 tablespoon of roasted cumin powder
1 tablespoon of fennel seeds
1 tablespoon of mustard seeds
1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds
2 tablespoons of oil
1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
Instructions For Tamarind Pickle:
- Soak the tamarind in warm water for a few hours until it softens. After that, squeeze out the pulp and discard the seeds and fiber.
This step involves preparing the tamarind pulp by soaking the tamarind in warm water. This will help to soften the tamarind and make it easier to extract the pulp. Once the tamarind has soaked for a few hours, squeeze out the pulp and discard the seeds and fiber.
- Heat a pan and add oil to it. When the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and fennel seeds to it. Let them crackle for a few seconds.
In this step, heat a pan and add oil to it. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and fennel seeds to the pan. These seeds will start to crackle and pop, which will help to release their flavors and aromas.
- Now add the tamarind pulp to the pan and stir well.
Once the seeds have crackled for a few seconds, add the tamarind pulp to the pan and stir well. Make sure that the tamarind pulp is mixed well with the spices and seeds.
- Add jaggery, turmeric powder, salt, red chili powder, and roasted cumin powder to the pan. Mix well.
Add the jaggery, turmeric powder, salt, red chili powder, and roasted cumin powder to the pan. Mix everything well to ensure that the spices and jaggery are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Cook the mixture on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook the mixture on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help to thicken the mixture and infuse the flavors of the spices into the tamarind pulp. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Once the mixture thickens and the oil starts to separate, turn off the heat and let the pickle cool down.
Once the mixture has thickened and the oil starts to separate, turn off the heat and let the pickle cool down. This will help to set the pickle and allow the flavors to develop further.
- Once the pickle has cooled down, transfer it to a clean, dry jar and store it in a cool, dark place.
Once the pickle has cooled down, transfer it to a clean, dry jar and store it in a cool, dark place. This will help to preserve the pickle for longer and prevent it from spoiling quickly. Make sure to use a clean and airtight jar to store the pickle.
Your homemade Tamarind Pickle is ready to be enjoyed! This tangy and spicy pickle goes well with almost everything from rice to sandwiches. It can be stored for up to 2 months if stored in a clean and airtight jar.
In conclusion, making Tamarind Pickle at home is not only easy, but it is also a fun and flavorful way to add a unique touch to your dishes. So, go ahead and try this recipe at home and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
Tips Tamarind Pickle
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Use fresh ingredients: It’s important to use fresh tamarind, spices, and jaggery when making Tamarind Pickle. This will ensure that the pickle has a vibrant flavor and aroma.
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Adjust the spice level: Tamarind Pickle can be spicy, so adjust the amount of red chili powder to your liking. You can also add more or less of the other spices based on your taste preference.
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Use a non-reactive pan: Tamarind is acidic and can react with metal, so it’s best to use a non-reactive pan, such as a stainless steel or enamel-coated pan, when making the pickle.
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Let the pickle cool before storing: It’s important to let the pickle cool down completely before transferring it to a jar. This will prevent condensation from forming in the jar and spoiling the pickle.
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Store the pickle properly: To ensure the pickle stays fresh, store it in a clean, dry, and airtight jar in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration is not necessary but can help extend the shelf life of the pickle.
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Use a clean spoon: When taking out the pickle from the jar, always use a clean, dry spoon to prevent contamination and spoilage.
By following these tips, you can make a delicious and flavorful Tamarind Pickle that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes.
Benefits Of Tamarind Pickle
Rich in antioxidants: Tamarind is rich in antioxidants that help to neutralize free radicals and protect the body from oxidative stress. Tamarind pickle retains the antioxidant properties of tamarind, making it a healthy addition to your diet.
Aids digestion: Tamarind is known for its digestive properties, and the spices used in Tamarind Pickle, such as cumin and fennel seeds, also aid digestion. Consuming Tamarind Pickle can help alleviate digestive issues and promote a healthy gut.
Boosts immunity: The spices and herbs used in Tamarind Pickle, such as mustard seeds and turmeric, have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help boost the immune system and protect the body from infections.
Adds flavor to meals: Tamarind Pickle is a versatile condiment that can be used to add flavor and depth to a variety of dishes, such as rice, sandwiches, and curries. It has a tangy and spicy flavor that can elevate the taste of any meal.
Preserves food: Pickling is a traditional method of preserving food that has been used for centuries. Tamarind Pickle can be stored for up to 2 months if stored in a clean and airtight jar, making it a convenient way to preserve food and extend its shelf life.
In conclusion, Tamarind Pickle is not only a delicious condiment, but it also has several health benefits. It aids digestion, boosts immunity, and is rich in antioxidants. So, go ahead and enjoy this flavorful and healthy condiment in your meals!
