Mangai Inji Pickle Recipe – Instant Mango Ginger Pickle
An Invigorating South Indian Side Dish
Introduction
Mango Ginger, or Mangai Inji, is a lesser-known yet incredibly flavorful spice that looks strikingly similar to ginger but carries the unique, tangy flavor of fresh mango. Despite its name, this vibrant root is related to turmeric rather than mangoes themselves. Mango Ginger has long been used in traditional South Indian medicine to treat common ailments such as coughs, diarrhea, and fever. Today, we’re diving into a simple yet delicious way to use this extraordinary root in a pickle form that’s sure to add an aromatic zing to your meal.
This Mangai Inji Pickle combines the distinct taste of Mango Ginger with a medley of flavorful spices, including red chili powder, turmeric, and salt, and is further enhanced by the aroma of tempering with sesame oil and mustard seeds. Served as a side dish, it’s the perfect complement to rice-based dishes like Curd Rice or Chettinad Takkali Sadam, and adds an unforgettable punch to any meal.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mango Ginger (Manga Inji) | 200 grams |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A generous pinch |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 45 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Mango Ginger
- Begin by soaking the Mangai Inji (mango ginger) in water for about 15 minutes. This step helps to remove any impurities and ensures that the ginger is clean.
- Once soaked, peel off the skin of the mango ginger and slice it into thin, round pieces. These slices will absorb all the wonderful flavors as they marinate.
-
Mix with Spices
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced mango ginger with red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir everything together, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed over the slices. Set this aside for now.
-
Tempering the Oil
- Take a pan and add the sesame (gingelly) oil. Heat the oil on medium flame until it becomes hot, releasing a wonderful aroma.
- Once the oil is heated, add the asafoetida (hing) powder to the oil. Let it sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add the mustard seeds to the pan and let them splutter. This is an essential step that infuses the oil with the deep, spicy flavor of mustard seeds.
-
Combine and Marinate
- After the mustard seeds have spluttered, pour the tempered oil mixture into the bowl containing the mango ginger and spice mixture. Give it a good stir to mix everything together thoroughly.
- Finally, squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and mix again. The tangy lemon juice adds a final burst of flavor to the pickle.
-
Serve and Enjoy
- Your Mangai Inji Pickle is now ready to serve! This pickle is best enjoyed when paired with curd rice or Chettinad Takkali Sadam, alongside some crispy papad for a fulfilling, comforting meal.
- Store the pickle in an airtight jar, and it can be kept for a few days in the refrigerator. The flavors intensify over time, making it even more delicious as it sits.
Serving Suggestions
This pickle is an excellent side dish to accompany South Indian rice-based meals like curd rice or Chettinad Takkali Sadam. It can also be served with parathas, dosa, or as a refreshing addition to a vegetarian platter.
For a fuller experience, pair it with a bowl of steamed rice, a simple lentil curry, and crispy papad for a delightful combination of flavors. Mangai Inji’s tangy heat will undoubtedly elevate the meal, making it memorable and satisfying.
Pro Tips:
- For a sharper taste, you can let the pickle sit for an hour or so after mixing before serving, which allows the spices to blend into the Mango Ginger.
- If you prefer a less spicy version, reduce the quantity of red chili powder and mustard seeds.
- Always use fresh Mango Ginger for the best flavor and maximum health benefits.
Mangai Inji Pickle is a must-try for anyone who loves experimenting with authentic South Indian flavors and health-boosting ingredients. Enjoy this tangy, spicy, and aromatic pickle as a side to your next meal and discover why it’s such a cherished recipe in the South Indian kitchen!
