Introduction
Garlic pickle, known for its bold and tangy flavor, is a beloved condiment in many cuisines. It's perfect for adding a zesty kick to your meals, from sandwiches to curries. Making garlic pickle at home is not only simple but also allows you to control the ingredients and customize the taste to your liking. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious homemade garlic pickle that will elevate your dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a mouth-watering garlic pickle, gather the following ingredients:
- 250 grams garlic (peeled)
- 1/2 cup mustard oil
- 2 tablespoons mustard seeds (coarsely ground)
- 2 tablespoons fennel seeds (coarsely ground)
- 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds (coarsely ground)
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds (coarsely ground)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida/ Hing
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Garlic Pickle
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic
Start by peeling the garlic cloves. If the cloves are large, you can slice them into smaller pieces.
Step 2: Sun-Dry the Garlic (Optional)
For a more intense flavor, spread the peeled garlic cloves on a tray and let them sun-dry for a few hours. This step is optional but highly recommended.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a pan, heat the mustard oil until it reaches its smoking point. Turn off the heat and let the oil cool slightly. This process reduces the pungency of the mustard oil.
Step 4: Toast the Spices
In a separate dry pan, lightly toast the coarsely ground mustard seeds, fennel seeds, fenugreek seeds, and cumin seeds until they release their aroma. Be careful not to burn them.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the garlic cloves, toasted spices, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and asafoetida. Mix well to ensure the garlic is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 6: Add Lemon Juice
Add the lemon juice to the garlic mixture and mix thoroughly. The lemon juice acts as a preservative and adds a tangy flavor to the pickle.
Step 7: Mix with Oil
Once the mustard oil has cooled down, pour it over the garlic mixture. Mix everything well to ensure the garlic cloves are fully immersed in the oil and spice mixture.
Step 8: Store and Ferment
Transfer the garlic pickle to a clean, sterilized glass jar. Seal the jar tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for about a week. During this time, the flavors will meld together and the garlic will soften.
Step 9: Taste and Adjust
After a week, taste your garlic pickle. If needed, adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or lemon juice.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Pickle
- Use fresh garlic: Fresh, plump garlic cloves will give the best flavor and texture.
- Sterilize jars: To extend the shelf life, ensure your jars are thoroughly sterilized before storing the pickle.
- Monitor fermentation: Check the pickle periodically to ensure it's fermenting properly and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic pickle is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy it:
- With Indian Meals: Serve it as a side with rice, roti, or parathas.
- As a Condiment: Use it to spice up sandwiches, burgers, or wraps.
- With Snacks: Enjoy it as a tangy dip with snacks like samosas or pakoras.
Conclusion
Making garlic pickle at home is a straightforward process that yields a flavorful and versatile condiment. Follow this step-by-step guide and experiment with the ingredients to create your perfect garlic pickle.
“Yes, of course, pickles take time to develop that perfect taste and require regular monitoring. Instead, try HoYi's Garlic Pickle, for that exact homemade taste.”