Grilled Cherry Tomato Pickle Recipe
Description
The Grilled Cherry Tomato Pickle Recipe is a tangy, flavorful, and versatile side dish that is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your meals. This instant pickle recipe is incredibly simple to make and requires minimal preparation, making it an ideal choice for quick weekday meals or impromptu gatherings. The smoky, grilled cherry tomatoes combined with fragrant spices and a touch of sweetness create a perfect harmony of flavors. Serve this delightful pickle with parathas, steamed rice, sambar, or even pair it with curries like Coriander Chicken Roast or Lahsuni Palak Dal (Spinach & Garlic Lentil Curry) for a complete meal.
Recipe Details
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Side Dish
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry tomatoes | 1/2 cup | Halved |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 2 tablespoons | Finely chopped |
| Vinegar | 1 1/2 tablespoons | For tanginess |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon | Balances flavors |
| Oil | 3 tablespoons | Divided |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 1/2 teaspoons | Dry roasted |
| Fennel seeds (Saunf) | 3/4 teaspoon | Dry roasted |
| Ajwain (Carom seeds) | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds a subtle earthy flavor |
| Black pepper powder | 3/4 teaspoon | For a hint of heat |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust as required |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80 kcal |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes
- In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes with salt, one tablespoon of oil, and black pepper powder. Toss well to coat the tomatoes evenly with the seasoning.
-
-
Grill the Tomatoes
- Preheat a grill pan on medium heat. Once the pan is hot, arrange the seasoned cherry tomatoes cut-side down on the pan. Grill for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them occasionally to ensure they are evenly charred and softened. Remove from the heat and set aside.
-
Prepare the Spice Blend
- In a dry kadai (pan), add mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and ajwain (carom seeds). Dry roast the spices over low heat until they release a fragrant aroma.
- Allow the roasted spices to cool slightly, then transfer them to a blender. Coarsely grind the spices and keep them aside.
-
Cook the Pickle
- In the same kadai, heat the remaining two tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
- Add the grilled cherry tomatoes to the pan along with the coarsely ground spice blend, finely chopped mint leaves, vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt (if needed). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
-
Simmer and Cool
- Let the mixture simmer for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together. Turn off the heat and let the pickle cool completely.
-
Store the Pickle
- Once cooled, transfer the pickle to an airtight container. This pickle can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
-
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Grilled Cherry Tomato Pickle as a side dish with steamed rice, parathas, or alongside your favorite curries. It pairs wonderfully with dishes like Coriander Chicken Roast and Lahsuni Palak Dal.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh and firm cherry tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the level of sugar and vinegar to balance the tanginess and sweetness as per your preference.
- Ensure the grilled tomatoes cool down completely before storing them to enhance shelf life.
- If you want a spicier version, add a pinch of red chili powder while mixing the grilled tomatoes with the spices.
This Grilled Cherry Tomato Pickle Recipe is an easy and delectable addition to your repertoire of side dishes. Whether served with a simple bowl of rice or a rich, flavorful curry, it is sure to delight your taste buds and elevate your meal experience.
