Green Chilli Pickle: A Tangy Twist with Lemon Juice

Green chilli pickle is a delicious and tangy condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Made with fresh green chillies and tangy lemon juice, this pickle is a perfect addition to your dining table. In this article, we will explore the process of making green chilli pickle and discuss its various health benefits.

Table of Contents

Ingredients and preparation

To make green chilli pickle, you will need the following ingredients:
– Fresh green chillies: Choose firm and green chillies, preferably the ones with a medium level of heat. You can adjust the spice level according to your preference.
– Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds the perfect tanginess to the pickle.
– Mustard seeds: These tiny seeds are an essential ingredient in many Indian pickles and provide a unique flavor.
– Turmeric powder: This vibrant yellow spice not only adds color but also acts as a natural preservative.
– Salt: Use a good quality salt to enhance the flavor of the pickle.
– Asafoetida: Also known as hing, it is added for its distinct aroma and digestive properties.
– Oil: Use any flavorless oil like mustard oil or sunflower oil for pickling.

Step 1: Washing and drying the chillies

Start by washing the green chillies thoroughly under running water. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. It is crucial to remove any moisture from the chillies before pickling to prevent the growth of mold.

Step 2: Slitting the chillies

Take a sharp knife and make a vertical slit in each green chilli. Be careful while handling the chillies as their natural oils can be quite spicy and can cause irritation if it comes in contact with the skin. You can either keep the chillies whole or dice them into small pieces, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Preparing the pickle masala

In a bowl, mix together mustard seeds, turmeric powder, salt, and asafoetida. This masala blend will enhance the taste and aroma of the green chilli pickle. Make sure all the ingredients are properly combined.

Step 4: Mixing the ingredients

Take the slit or diced green chillies and add them to the masala mixture. Mix well, ensuring that each chilli is coated with the masala. The lemon juice will be added later, so do not include it in this step.

Step 5: Adding lemon juice

In a separate bowl, squeeze fresh lemon juice. Make sure to remove any seeds or pulp. Slowly pour the lemon juice into the green chilli and masala mixture. The tanginess of the lemon juice beautifully complements the spiciness of the green chillies.

Step 6: Preparing the tempering

In a small pan, heat oil on medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. This tempering or tadka will add an extra flavor to the pickle. Once the mustard seeds splutter, turn off the heat and let the oil cool.

Step 7: Mixing everything together

Once the oil has cooled down, add it to the green chilli and lemon juice mixture. Give everything a good mix, making sure the oil is well incorporated with the other ingredients. The oil acts as a natural preservative and helps in the proper fermentation of the pickle.

Step 8: Storing the pickle

Transfer the green chilli pickle to a clean, dry glass jar or container. Make sure the jar is airtight to prevent any contamination or spoilage. Keep the pickle at room temperature for 2-3 days to allow it to ferment and develop its flavors. After fermentation, store the pickle in the refrigerator, which will further enhance its shelf life.

Health benefits of green chilli pickle

Green chilli pickle is not only delicious but also packed with various health benefits. Let’s take a look at some of them:

Rich in vitamins and minerals

Green chillies are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and E. These vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy skin, boosting immunity, and protecting against oxidative stress. Additionally, green chillies are rich in minerals like potassium and iron, which play a vital role in various bodily functions.

Boosts metabolism

The compound called capsaicin present in green chillies is known to boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. It increases fat burning and reduces appetite, making it an excellent addition to a weight loss diet.

Improves digestion

Green chillies have been traditionally used as a digestive aid. They stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, improving digestion and easing symptoms of indigestion and flatulence.

Provides pain relief

Capsaicin in green chillies has natural analgesic properties and can help in relieving pain. It is commonly used in topical creams and ointments to alleviate muscle and joint pain.

Boosts immunity

The high content of vitamin C in green chillies helps in strengthening the immune system and fighting off infections. It also acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body against free radicals.

Improved cardiovascular health

Research suggests that the compound capsaicin found in green chillies helps in lowering blood pressure and reducing bad cholesterol levels, thus improving cardiovascular health.

In conclusion, green chilli pickle is a delightful condiment that adds a tangy twist to your meals. With the perfect balance of heat from green chillies and tanginess from lemon juice, this pickle is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Moreover, it comes with a range of health benefits, making it a must-have addition to your pantry. So, why not give it a try and enjoy the burst of flavors it brings to your table.