Instant Garlic Pickle Recipe
Description:
Garlic is often called a superfood, and the famous saying “Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food,” attributed to Hippocrates, applies perfectly to garlic. This Instant Garlic Pickle recipe is a true testament to the amazing benefits and bold flavors that garlic can bring to your dishes. Combining a handful of simple spices with garlic, this pickle bursts with flavor, offering a great accompaniment to curd rice, chapatis, or even as a side to your everyday meals. The best part? You can make this crunchy, tangy pickle in just a few minutes if you have the necessary ingredients prepped and ready. So, whether you’re looking for a quick pickle to elevate your meal or seeking a way to incorporate the health benefits of garlic into your diet, this recipe has you covered!
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Garlic (whole garlic pods) | 2 cloves |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 5 tablespoons |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Methi Powder (Fenugreek Powder) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Curry Leaves | 20 leaves |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Instructions
-
Peel and Prepare Garlic:
Begin by peeling the garlic cloves. Once peeled, you can either slice them finely or coarsely pound them using a mortar and pestle, depending on your preference for texture. The coarser the garlic, the more intense the flavor in each bite. -
Heat the Oil:
In a deep pan, heat the sesame (gingelly) oil over medium heat. Sesame oil adds a nutty flavor and works perfectly with the spices in this recipe, enhancing the overall taste of the pickle. -
Fry the Garlic:
Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. This will release their aroma into the oil. Now, add the garlic pieces to the pan. Sauté the garlic pieces along with the red chili powder and turmeric powder, stirring occasionally until the garlic turns golden brown and crispy. The frying process will intensify the flavor of the garlic. -
Add the Spices:
Once the garlic is nicely browned, stir in the fenugreek powder (methi powder) and salt to taste. The fenugreek powder adds a slight bitterness that balances the rich flavor of the garlic. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the spices are well incorporated. -
Add Curry Leaves:
Toss in the curry leaves, which will infuse the pickle with a distinct aroma and a touch of freshness. Fry the mixture for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the curry leaves to crisp up slightly. -
Cool and Serve:
Allow the pickle to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, the Instant Garlic Pickle is ready to serve! This delicious pickle can be enjoyed immediately with a plate of curd rice, chapati, or as a side to any meal. If you’d like to store it, keep it in an airtight container in a dry place, and it will remain fresh for several days.
Allergen Information
- Garlic: While garlic is generally safe for most people, it may cause discomfort or allergic reactions in some sensitive individuals. It is known to cause digestive issues in certain cases.
- Sesame Oil: People with sesame allergies should avoid using sesame oil. Alternatives such as sunflower or peanut oil can be used for frying.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely vegetarian and can be included in a vegetarian diet.
- Vegan: This recipe is suitable for a vegan diet, as it contains no animal-derived ingredients.
Tips and Advice
- Storage: If you’re making a batch to store, make sure to allow the pickle to cool completely before sealing it in an airtight jar. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder depending on your preferred spice level. If you enjoy a milder pickle, you can reduce the quantity.
- Freshness: Fresh garlic works best for this recipe, as it provides the best flavor and texture. Be sure to use garlic that’s not too old or dried out.
Conclusion
This Instant Garlic Pickle is a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire, bringing a burst of flavor with every bite. With its combination of aromatic spices and the health benefits of garlic, it’s not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious side dish. Quick to prepare and easy to make, this garlic pickle can be enjoyed right away or stored for later use. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, this simple yet flavorful recipe will add that extra zing to your meals.
