Pickled To Perfection: India's Regional Pickle Flavours
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Pickles, those tangy, crunchy, and sometimes fiery accompaniments, are an integral part of the Indian culinary experience. More than just a condiment, pickles add a burst of flavour, texture, and essential probiotics to every meal. Pickling traditions flourish across India's diverse regions, reflecting local ingredients, cultural influences, and culinary preferences. From the fiery reds of Andhra Pradesh to the fragrant greens of Kerala, each jar tells a unique story, preserving not just vegetables but also a taste of tradition.

Pickling is a style of food preservation that was made popular in India in terms of making the most of the seasonal fruits and vegetables, in addition to preparing tastes for the subjects all year. Pickling is a social food production, as pickles are prepared in large quantities during harvest time while relatives gather together to preserve the food. These pickles become a very special and pleasant addition to daily food, celebrations, holidays, and different festivals.

India too has a history of pickling that goes back many centuries. There are recorded and written accounts where fruits and vegetables were pickled using methods such as those in the past. Pickles needed to be considered not only as food products but also as medicines, which were included in Ayurveda. Let's explore the variety of Indian pickles and their role in the dish, the differences between them, and the ingredients used to make each one.


A Spicy Sojourn: South India's Pickling Delights

South India's culinary scene is renowned for its vibrant spice combinations and liberal use of chillies. This fiery passion extends to their pickles, known for their bold, assertive flavours.

  • Avakaya And Gongura, Andhra Pradesh: The pickles of Andhra Pradesh are legendary for their heat. Avakaya is a regional favourite, a fiery mango pickle made with unripe mangoes. Gongura, a sour pickle made from the sorrel plant, adds a unique, tangy twist to meals.
  • Aam Pachadi And Nungu, Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu offers a delightful contrast of flavours in its pickles. Aam Pachadi, a sweet and tangy mango pickle, balances the spice of South Indian cuisine. Nungu, a jackfruit pickle, is another popular choice, offering a sweet and savoury combination.
  • Inji Curry And Narayanga, Kerala: A tangy lemon pickle, is another favourite, offering a citrusy punch along with a ginger pickle from Kerala

A Tangy Trail: West India's Pickled Delights

West India's pickles showcase a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours, often influenced by the coastal regions and the use of regional fruits and vegetables.

  • Limbu Achaar And Kairi Achaar, Maharashtra: Limbu Achaar, a vibrant lemon pickle, is a staple in Maharashtrian cuisine. Thecha, a fiery chutney made with green chillies, is often enjoyed alongside pickles for an extra kick. Kairi Achaar, a raw mango pickle, offers a sweet and tangy balance.
  • Chhundo And Ker Sangri Achaar, Gujarat: Gujarati pickles are known for their unique sweet and savoury flavour profiles. Chhundo, a sweet and spicy mango pickle, is a local favourite. Ker Sangri Achaar, a cluster bean pickle, offers a salty and tangy taste.
  • Rekindo And Fish Pickles, Goa: Goa's Portuguese influence is evident in its pickles. Rekindo, a unique green mango pickle seasoned with vinegar and spices, is a Goan speciality. Fish pickles, made with locally caught fish, offer a distinct coastal flavour.

Aromatic Adventures: North India's Pickled Treasures

North India's pickling traditions are influenced by the region's rich history and diverse ingredients. From earthy spices to creamy textures, these pickles offer a delightful depth of flavour.

  • Aachar Ka Achaar And Gajar Ka Achaar, Punjab: Punjabi pickles are known for their robust flavours and generous use of spices. Aachar ka Achaar, a mixed vegetable pickle, is a staple, offering a medley of textures and tastes. Gajar ka Achaar, a carrot pickle, adds a sweet and tangy touch to meals.
  • Ker Sangri Ki Launji And Lilva Kachri, Rajasthan: Ker Sangri ki Launji, a tart and spicy pickle made from dried cluster beans, is a Rajasthani speciality. Lilva Kachri, a pickle made from baby aubergines, offers a unique briny flavour.
  • Aam Ka Chunda And Imli Ki Chutney, Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh's pickling traditions were influenced by the Mughal era. Aam ka Chunda, a sweet and tangy mango preserve, reflects this heritage. Imli ki Chutney, a tamarind chutney, adds a sour and tangy dimension to meals.

Common Ingredients Used In Pickling

Indian pickles use a variety of ingredients, including:

  • Fruits and Vegetables: Mango, lemon, lime, carrot, cauliflower, and green chillies are commonly used.
  • Spices: Mustard seeds, fenugreek, cumin, turmeric, and red chilli powder are essential.
  • Oils: Mustard oil is widely used for its pungent flavour and preservative properties.
  • Preservatives: Salt and vinegar preserve the pickles and enhance their flavour.

Pickling Techniques

  • Sun Drying: 

Sun drying is a traditional method used to preserve several ingredients by removing the moisture content through direct exposure to sunlight. This technique involves placing ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, or spices in direct sunlight for several days until they are thoroughly dried. Common ingredients that are sun-dried for pickling include mangoes, lemons, chillies, and certain leafy greens.

The drying process inhibits the growth of spoilage-causing microorganisms. Once these ingredients are dried, they are combined with pickling agents such as vinegar, salt, and spices to create a variety of pickles. Sun drying is particularly popular in regions with abundant sunlight and is a time-honoured way to preserve seasonal produce for use throughout the year.

  • Fermentation: 

Fermentation is a natural pickling process that involves the conversion of sugars present in fruits and vegetables into lactic acid by beneficial bacteria. This method not only preserves the food but also enhances its nutritional value and flavour profile. Ingredients like cucumbers, cabbage (for sauerkraut or kimchi), and radishes are commonly used in fermented pickles. The process begins by submerging the vegetables in a saltwater brine, which creates an anaerobic (oxygen-free) environment.

Over time, lactic acid bacteria naturally present on the vegetables' surfaces begin to proliferate, breaking down the sugars and producing lactic acid. This acid acts as a natural preservative, giving the pickles their distinctive tangy flavour and preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. Fermented pickles are rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health, making this method a nutritious and flavorful way to preserve vegetables.

  • Oil Preservation: 

Oil preservation is a method used in pickling where ingredients are submerged in oil to prevent spoilage and add a layer of richness to the pickles. This technique is especially prevalent in Indian cuisine, where mustard oil, sesame oil, or vegetable oil are commonly used. The ingredients, such as raw mangoes, lemons, and various vegetables, are first mixed with salt and spices and sometimes pre-dried or partially cooked.

They are then fully immersed in oil, which acts as a barrier, preventing air from reaching the pickles and thus inhibiting the growth of spoilage-causing microorganisms. The oil not only preserves the pickles but also absorbs the flavours of the spices and the ingredients, enhancing the overall taste. Additionally, the oil itself can be used as a flavourful condiment. Oil-preserved pickles have a long shelf life and develop a deep, complex flavour over time, making them a staple in many households.

  • Spice Blending: 

Spice blending is a crucial step in the pickling process, contributing significantly to both the flavour and the preservation of the pickles. A diverse array of spices is used, each bringing its unique taste and preservative qualities to the mix. Common spices include mustard seeds, fenugreek, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chilli powder. These spices are often roasted to enhance their flavours and then ground into a fine powder or used whole.

The blend is then mixed with the primary ingredients, such as vegetables or fruits, along with salt and sometimes vinegar or oil. The spices not only infuse the pickles with their aromatic and robust flavours but also have antimicrobial properties that help preserve the pickles by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi. The exact combination and proportions of spices vary depending on regional and personal recipes, resulting in a rich diversity of pickle flavours across different cuisines.

The next time you take a scoop of mango pickle or a spoonful of lemon achar, think of all the aspects that make these jars of pickle a culturally rich delicacy.