Mango Achar, also known as mango pickle, is a cherished condiment in Indian households. It’s an essential side dish that adds bold, tangy, and spicy flavors to meals. The history of mango pickle dates back centuries, with each region of India having its own version of this beloved recipe. It’s made with raw mangoes, sun-dried to enhance their natural tartness, and mixed with a blend of aromatic spices. The versatility of mango achar allows it to be paired with almost any Indian meal, from parathas and rice to dal and curries.
The popularity of pickles like mango achar continues to rise globally, with people discovering the unique flavors of Indian spices. In fact, the global pickle market, particularly in India, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.5% from 2023 to 2028. Homemade pickles, like the home-made amla achar, are also gaining attention for their natural and preservative-free qualities.
In this blog, we’ll explore the process of making the Best Mango Achar Recipe using authentic Indian spices. We’ll discuss the ingredients, the preparation method, and tips for making the perfect homemade pickle that retains the perfect balance of tang, spice, and flavor.
What You Need to Make Mango Achar
Key Ingredients for the Best Mango Achar
To make authentic Best Mango Achar, you’ll need a few key ingredients that form the base of this flavorful pickle. These ingredients are available in most Indian grocery stores or online, and each one plays a crucial role in making the achar both flavorful and preservative. The primary ingredient, of course, is raw mangoes, which are packed with tartness that provides the foundation for the pickle.
Other essential ingredients include:
Raw Mangoes: Choose firm, unripe mangoes with no blemishes. These will have a sharper tartness compared to ripe mangoes.
Mustard Oil: This oil adds a distinct flavor and is commonly used in Indian pickles.
Salt: Helps preserve the pickle and enhances the flavor.
Aromatic Spices: Mustard seeds, fennel seeds, turmeric powder, and red chili powder are commonly used. Each spice adds complexity to the pickle's flavor profile.
Ginger and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients add depth and richness to the achar.
Asafoetida (Hing): A small pinch of hing imparts a unique earthy flavor that balances the spices.
These ingredients are fundamental for creating an authentic mango achar that retains its full flavor when stored for months.
Step-by-Step Process for Making the Best Mango Achar
Step 1: Preparing the Mangoes
The first step to making the best mango achar is selecting the right mangoes. Use raw, green mangoes that are not too ripe. Clean the mangoes thoroughly and then cut them into small pieces, typically cubes or slices. After cutting the mangoes, place them in a clean, dry bowl and sprinkle some salt over them. Let them sit for 6-8 hours or overnight. This step helps draw out excess moisture from the mangoes, ensuring that they preserve well when pickled.
Step 2: Preparing the Spice Mix
While the mangoes are sitting, prepare the spice mix. Start by roasting the mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and cumin seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes. Roasting the spices releases their essential oils and enhances their flavor. Once roasted, grind the spices into a coarse powder. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and a pinch of hing. In addition, grate some fresh ginger and garlic to make a paste that will give your pickle extra flavor.
Step 3: Mixing the Mangoes and Spices
Once the mangoes are ready, combine them with the prepared spice mix. Add mustard oil to the mangoes and spices. The oil acts as a preservative and gives the achar its characteristic flavor. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the mango pieces are well-coated with the spice mixture. If needed, add extra salt to taste.
Step 4: Sun-Drying the Mango Achar
Now that the mangoes are coated with the spices and oil, it’s time to let the flavors meld. Store the mango achar in a clean, airtight jar, and place it in the sun for about 7-10 days. The sun helps to ferment the pickle, allowing the spices to infuse into the mango pieces. During this period, shake the jar every day to ensure that the oil and spices are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Storing the Mango Achar
After 7-10 days, your mango achar should be ready to serve! You can store it in a cool, dry place for up to a few months, allowing the flavors to deepen and intensify. Mango achar can be enjoyed with rice, chapati, parathas, or even sandwiches for a burst of flavor.
Tips for Making the Perfect Mango Achar
While making mango achar at home is quite straightforward, there are a few tips that can help you make the perfect pickle every time:
Choose the Right Mangoes: Ensure that the mangoes are firm and green, as these will provide the best texture and flavor.
Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices provide a much richer flavor. Always buy whole spices and grind them when needed.
Adjust Spice Levels: Indian pickles are typically spicy, but you can adjust the chili powder and spices to suit your taste.
Use Clean, Dry Utensils: When making pickles, cleanliness is crucial to avoid contamination and spoilage. Always use dry spoons and jars to store your pickle.
Let It Rest: Mango achar gets better with time. Allow the pickle to sit for at least a week before tasting for the best results.
Additional Indian Pickle Varieties
If you're a fan of homemade pickles, you might also want to try making other varieties, such as home made amla achar (Indian gooseberry pickle) or mixed vegetable pickles. The preparation methods for these pickles are similar to mango achar, with the key difference being the main ingredients.
Home Made Amla Achar
Amla achar is made from fresh amla berries, which are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. This pickle has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, thanks to the addition of jaggery or sugar. The preparation method is almost identical to that of mango achar, with spices like mustard seeds, fennel, and ginger playing a significant role in the flavor.
Home Made Pickle Variations
Apart from mango and amla, you can also try pickling other fruits and vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, and even chilies. The key to making any home made pickle is using fresh ingredients and letting the flavors blend together over time.
Conclusion: Creating Authentic Mango Achar at Home
Making the Best Mango Achar Recipe with authentic Indian spices is a rewarding process that results in a flavorful and versatile condiment. Whether you enjoy it with parathas, rice, or simply as a snack, homemade mango achar is an excellent way to bring the authentic taste of India to your kitchen. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can create a pickle that not only adds spice and tang to your meals but also serves as a nostalgic reminder of traditional Indian flavors.
For those who enjoy making home made amla achar or other types of pickles, mango achar offers the perfect opportunity to experiment with spices and ingredients that resonate with your taste. With a little patience and the right techniques, you’ll have a jar of delicious mango achar ready to enjoy!