Mango achar, or mango pickle, is a beloved dish in many households, especially during the summer months. Its spicy, tangy flavors make it a perfect complement to almost any meal. However, one common issue that can plague homemade mango achar is the development of fungus. This not only spoils the pickle but also affects its taste and texture. So, how do you keep your mango achar safe and fungus-free? In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind fungal growth in mango achar and share expert tips on how to prevent it.
If you’re looking for high-quality, safe, and preservative-free pickles, Ojas Nature, one of the Top Pickle Manufacturers in Saharanpur, offers the finest online mango pickle made with traditional methods to ensure long shelf life without the risk of spoilage. Let’s dive into the best practices for keeping your mango achar fresh and fungus-free.
1. Why Does Mango Achar Get Fungus?
Fungus and mold can appear in mango achar if the environment or storage conditions aren’t ideal. Here are some common causes:
Excess Moisture
One of the primary reasons for fungal growth in mango achar is the presence of excess moisture. The moisture can come from the mango itself or from improperly dried ingredients. Moisture encourages the growth of mold and bacteria, which can ruin your pickle.
Improper Storage
Storing mango achar in a humid, warm environment can lead to the growth of fungus. If the pickle is not stored in airtight containers or sealed properly, air can enter and foster the growth of fungi.
Contamination from Utensils
Using contaminated spoons or hands to handle the mango achar can introduce bacteria or mold spores into the jar, causing the pickle to spoil. It’s crucial to always use clean, dry utensils to avoid contamination.
Insufficient Oil and Salt
Oil and salt play a significant role in preserving the mango pickle. If there isn’t enough oil to cover the mango pieces or enough salt to create a brine, your pickle may not be preserved well, making it more susceptible to fungus growth.
2. Tips to Prevent Fungus in Mango Achar
Now that we understand why mango achar gets fungus, let’s take a look at the best practices to keep your pickle fresh, safe, and free from mold.
1. Ensure Proper Drying
One of the key steps to preventing fungus is to make sure that all the ingredients in the mango achar are properly dried before they are mixed together. This includes:
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Dry the mangoes: After cutting the mangoes into pieces, allow them to dry out completely before adding them to the jar. This can be done by placing them under the sun for a few hours or using a dehydrator.
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Dry the spices: Ensure that the spices you use in the pickle, such as mustard seeds, cumin, and turmeric, are completely dry as well. Moist spices can introduce unwanted moisture into the mix.
2. Use Enough Oil
Oil not only adds flavor but also helps to preserve the mango achar. It acts as a barrier, keeping air out and preventing moisture from seeping in. To prevent fungus:
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Cover the mangoes completely: When storing the mango achar, make sure the oil covers all the mango pieces. This will help create a seal, keeping out air and moisture.
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Use mustard oil: Mustard oil is often the oil of choice for making online mango pickle, as it has natural antimicrobial properties, which help in preservation.
3. Keep the Pickle in Airtight Containers
Exposure to air can lead to the growth of mold. To prevent this, always store your mango achar in airtight containers. The sealed container will keep moisture and air from entering, creating a safe environment for the pickle to stay fresh for a longer period.
4. Sterilize the Containers
Before storing the mango achar, ensure that the jars or containers you use are completely clean and sterilized. Any leftover moisture or contaminants in the container can cause the pickle to spoil. Wash the jars thoroughly, dry them completely, and then sterilize them in the oven or with boiling water to kill any bacteria or mold spores.
5. Use Clean, Dry Utensils
Contamination is a major cause of fungus in pickles. Always use clean, dry utensils when handling your mango achar. This includes:
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Spoons: Use dry, clean spoons to take out the achar. Avoid dipping wet or contaminated spoons into the jar.
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Hands: Always make sure your hands are dry and clean before handling the pickle. Even a small amount of moisture can cause issues.
6. Maintain the Right Salt and Oil Ratio
Salt and oil are essential for preserving the mango pickle. A proper balance is crucial to preventing the growth of fungi. Ojas Nature’s online mango pickle is made with the perfect ratio of salt and oil, which ensures that the pickle stays fresh longer without the need for artificial preservatives.
The salt helps draw out moisture from the mangoes, while the oil creates a protective layer, locking in the flavors and preventing mold growth.
7. Store the Pickle in a Cool, Dry Place
Heat and humidity can promote mold growth. Store your mango achar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A cupboard or pantry with good ventilation is ideal. Avoid storing it in areas that get hot or humid, such as near the stove or in a damp kitchen.
8. Use Natural Preservatives
If you’re looking for a natural way to preserve your online mango pickle without relying on artificial chemicals, consider adding ingredients like:
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Asafoetida (Hing): Known for its antibacterial properties, hing helps in preserving the pickle.
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Turmeric: This spice not only adds flavor but also acts as a natural preservative due to its antimicrobial properties.
Ojas Nature, as one of the Top Pickle Manufacturers in Saharanpur, ensures that their pickles are made with natural preservatives, ensuring both safety and taste without the need for harmful chemicals.
3. What to Do if Your Mango Achar Has Fungus?
If you notice any fungus or mold in your mango achar, it’s important to act quickly. Here’s what you can do:
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Remove the mold: Carefully remove the moldy portion of the pickle with a clean, dry spoon.
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Check the oil level: If the oil level has reduced, top it up to ensure the mango pieces are fully submerged.
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Refrigerate: If the room temperature is too warm, consider storing the pickle in the refrigerator to slow down the growth of mold.
However, the best way to avoid this problem is to follow the proper preparation and storage techniques mentioned earlier.
Final Thoughts
Mango achar is a delicious, tangy treat that can easily turn into a staple in your kitchen, but it’s important to take the right steps to preserve it and avoid fungus. By ensuring that your pickle is stored properly, using the right amount of oil and salt, and keeping the environment clean, you can prevent fungus and enjoy your online mango pickle for months without any issues.
For the best quality mango achar, consider choosing Ojas Nature, one of the Top Pickle Manufacturers in Saharanpur, offering online mango pickle that’s made with the finest ingredients and traditional preservation methods. With Ojas Nature, you can enjoy the authentic taste of mango achar while ensuring it stays fresh and fungus-free.
