Introduction: Taste of India in Every Bite
Mango Pickle Recipe, popularly known as Aam Ka Achar, is one of the most loved and consumed pickles in India. No Indian meal feels complete without a spoonful of tangy, spicy mango pickle on the side. Whether it’s paratha, dal-chawal, or curd rice, the magic of mango pickle enhances the flavors instantly. At The Marwadi Store, we carry forward the legacy of traditional Marwari recipes, ensuring every bite takes you back to the roots of Rajasthan.
Health Benefits of Mango Pickle
While pickles are usually known for taste, mango pickle also carries several health benefits when consumed in moderation:
- Boosts Digestion – The natural fermentation and spices aid gut health.
- Rich in Antioxidants – Raw mangoes are a great source of Vitamin C.
- Appetite Enhancer – The spicy-sour taste stimulates hunger.
- Probiotic Value – Sun-dried pickles often develop good bacteria for gut health.
- Iron Absorption – Helps in better absorption of iron in meals.
Ingredients for Mango Pickle Recipe
Here’s a simple yet authentic recipe that has been used in Marwari households for generations.
Ingredients:
- Raw mangoes (medium-sized) – 1 kg
- Mustard oil – 200 ml
- Salt – 100 g
- Fennel seeds (saunf) – 2 tbsp
- Mustard seeds (rai) – 2 tbsp
- Fenugreek seeds (methi dana) – 2 tbsp
- Nigella seeds (kalonji) – 1 tbsp
- Turmeric powder – 2 tbsp
- Red chili powder – 2 tbsp
- Asafoetida (hing) – ½ tsp
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Preparing the Mangoes
- Wash the raw mangoes thoroughly and wipe them dry.
- Cut into small bite-sized pieces. Remove the seeds if necessary.
- Spread the pieces on a clean cloth and dry them under shade for 3–4 hours to remove moisture.
Step 2: Preparing the Spices
- Lightly roast fennel, fenugreek, and mustard seeds.
- Grind coarsely (not too fine).
- Mix with turmeric, chili powder, hing, and salt.
Step 3: Mixing Mango with Spices
- Take the dried mango pieces in a big bowl.
- Add the spice mixture and toss well.
- Heat mustard oil till smoking point, then let it cool slightly.
- Pour the oil over the mango-spice mix.
Step 4: Storing the Pickle
- Transfer to a clean glass jar.
- Cover tightly and place under sunlight for 7–10 days.
- Shake the jar once daily for even mixing.
- The pickle is ready when mango pieces absorb the spices and oil.
Regional Variations of Mango Pickle
- Rajasthani Mango Pickle: Uses extra red chili and mustard oil for a spicy kick.
- Gujarati Mango Pickle: Slightly sweet with jaggery and less oil.
- South Indian Mango Pickle (Avakaya): Uses sesame oil and lots of red chili for fiery taste.
- Punjabi Mango Pickle: More tangy, with ajwain (carom seeds) and mustard seeds.
Storage & Shelf Life
- Always store mango pickle in a glass jar or ceramic container.
- Avoid using steel or plastic containers.
- Use a clean, dry spoon every time.
- Keep away from moisture for longer shelf life.
- Properly made mango pickle lasts 1 year or more without refrigeration.
Serving Suggestions
- With hot parathas and curd.
- Alongside dal-rice or khichdi.
- With roti and sabzi for extra flavor.
- As a side dish in Rajasthani thali.
- With theplas or poori for travel food.
FAQs about Mango Pickle
Q1. Which mango is best for mango pickle?
A. Raw, firm, green mangoes (totapuri, rajapuri, or desi mangoes) are best.
Q2. How long does mango pickle last?
A. If stored properly, it lasts 12 months or more.
Q3. Can I make mango pickle without oil?
A. Yes, but oil-based pickle has better preservation and flavor.
Q4. Why is my pickle turning soft?
A. Excess moisture or improper sun-drying can cause spoilage.
Q5. Is mango pickle healthy?
A. Yes, in moderation. It aids digestion but is high in salt and oil.
Q6. Can I use jaggery or sugar in mango pickle?
A. Yes, Gujarati-style mango pickle uses jaggery for a sweet-sour taste.
Q7. How to reduce the salt in pickle?
A. Balance with jaggery or extra spices if salt feels high.
Q8. Can I use refined oil instead of mustard oil?
A. Traditional flavor comes from mustard oil, but refined oil can be used.
Q9. How to know if mango pickle is spoiled?
A. Foul smell, white fungus, or watery texture means spoilage.
Q10. Where can I buy authentic mango pickle online?
A. At The Marwadi Store, you can explore premium, preservative-free, homemade-style mango pickle.
