Spicy Lime Pickle Recipe (Naranga Achaar)
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 60 minutes
Cuisine: Indian | Course: Appetizer | Diet: Vegetarian
Lime pickle, also known as Naranga Achaar, is a beloved condiment in Indian cuisine, offering a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors. The addition of jaggery gives this traditional recipe a unique twist, adding a subtle sweetness that enhances its complexity. This pickle is perfect for pairing with dishes like Cabbage Paneer Parathas or even enjoyed alongside steamed rice, Vendakkai Vengayam Sambar (Okra in Tangy Lentil Curry), and Elai Vadam (South Indian Rice Papad). Best of all, this pickle can be stored for a long period, allowing its flavors to deepen and mature over time.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lemons | 700 grams |
| Water | Approx. 700 grams, to cover the limes by 1 inch |
| Salt | To taste |
| For the Pickle Masala | |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 15 cloves |
| Ginger, finely chopped | 50 grams |
| Curry leaves | 4 sprigs |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | ½ teaspoon |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | ½ cup |
| Vinegar | ½ cup |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Lemons:
Start by placing the whole lemons in a large saucepan, adding enough water to cover them by about 1 inch. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer on medium heat for about 20 minutes or until the lemons soften. -
Cool the Lemons:
Once the lemons have softened, drain the water and let the lemons cool. After they have cooled down, cut each lemon into 8 quarters, then chop each quarter into 3–4 smaller pieces. -
Prepare the Masala Paste:
In a small bowl, combine the red chili powder and turmeric powder with a little water to form a smooth paste. This step is essential to avoid burning the spices when they are added to the hot pan. -
Cook the Spices:
Heat the sesame oil in a heavy-bottomed pan on low heat. First, add the mustard seeds and let them crackle. Then, add the fenugreek seeds and curry leaves. Stir the spices for about a minute to release their flavors. -
Sauté Ginger and Garlic:
Add the chopped ginger and garlic to the pan and sauté them on medium flame for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent them from burning. -
Add the Spices and Lemons:
Once the ginger and garlic are golden and aromatic, stir in the chili-turmeric paste and sauté for an additional 4 minutes to cook the spices. Next, add the chopped lemons to the pan, mixing well. Taste the mixture and adjust the salt according to your preference. -
Incorporate Jaggery:
Add the jaggery to the mixture, stirring it in until it melts and integrates well with the other ingredients. Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely. -
Add the Vinegar:
In a separate pan, bring the vinegar to a boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. Once cooled, stir the vinegar into the prepared pickle mixture. -
Store the Pickle:
Transfer the cooled Spicy Lime Pickle (Naranga Achaar) into a glass jar. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dry place. The pickle can be stored for an extended period, and the flavors will continue to develop over time.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this Spicy Lime Pickle with Cabbage Paneer Parathas and a side of curd for a wholesome meal.
- It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, Vendakkai Vengayam Sambar (Okra in Tangy Lentil Curry), and Elai Vadam (South Indian Rice Papad), making it a versatile addition to any meal.
- You can also enjoy this pickle as an accompaniment to various rice dishes or flatbreads.
Storage Tips:
The Naranga Achaar will stay fresh for months if stored properly in an airtight glass jar. The vinegar and oil help preserve the pickle, and the jaggery adds a depth of flavor that will intensify with time. Store the pickle in a cool, dark place, and always use a dry spoon when serving to maintain its shelf life.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 45 kcal |
| Total Fat | 3.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
The Spicy Lime Pickle Recipe (Naranga Achaar) is a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet treat that enhances the flavors of any meal. The long shelf life and versatility of this pickle make it an excellent addition to your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy a taste of South Indian tradition with every bite.
