Onam: The Festival of Harvest and Tradition in Kerala
Onam, Kerala's iconic harvest festival, celebrates the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali. The 10-day long festivities begin with Atham, leading up to the grand day of Thiruvonam. Steeped in rich culture and tradition, Onam is not just a festival—it’s a magnificent celebration of Kerala’s vibrant heritage.
Delve into Authentic Kerala Prawn Pickle
"Pearly Aunty's Culinary Legacy: A Heartfelt Journey with Kerala Prawn Pickle"
In my kitchen, every food holds a
story and every dish is a labour of love. It all started with a tale from
my daughter, studying medicine miles away in Georgia. She shared
anecdotes of her friends carrying bottles of pickles from home, a taste
of India in a foreign land.
My children never had much of a palate for
pickles. So, when she told me about her friend's batch of prawn
pickle, I was intrigued. Despite watching my mother-in-law's sister,
Pearly aunty, craft pickles with finesse, I had reservations about
preserving non-vegetarian items. But my daughter's enthusiasm sparked
something within me, a desire to recreate those flavours in my own domain.
Why Kerala is the Ultimate Destination for Christmas and New Year Celebrations
If there's one place I always dream of visiting during the festive season, it’s Kerala — especially during Christmas or Onam. The charm of Kerala's celebrations is undeniable, and it truly feels like "home" no matter where I am in the world. After all the travel restrictions and the pandemic, I’ve found myself missing India more than ever. As my husband often says, “The true spirit of Christmas can only be felt once you step into God’s Own Country.”
KERALA SADHYA VIBHAVANGAL
"Sadhya Vibhavangal: Crafting the Ultimate Onam Feast"
Experience the Essence of Kerala with a Complete Sadhya
Onam is around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a traditional Kerala Sadhya? This grand feast, brimming with authentic flavours and cultural richness, is a must-have during festive celebrations like Onam and Vishu. But don’t stop there! Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or just a special day, Sadhya is a culinary delight worth indulging in any time of the year.
MANGO PICKLE - KERALA KADUMANGA ACHAR
"Delight Your Senses with Kadu Manga Achar: The Ultimate Tangy Mango Pickle for Your Onam Sadhya"
Pickles are cooked in different styles, and mostly the taste and flavours of pickles reflect the region of its origin. This Mango Pickle is prepared with unripe green mangoes, which are cut into bite-sized cubes and prepared along with garlic, ginger and green chillies. Kadumanga Achar is a great reminiscent of Kerala Sadhya, most of the sadhya is incomplete without this Kerala Kadumanga Achar made with fresh raw mangoes. And this ultimate local favourite luckily fills its space as my first Pickle Recipe in my blog. I am an ardent fan of Pickles and I love to try a variety of Pickles, but the speciality is that this Kadu Manga Achar happens to be my favourite pickle next to Andhra Avakkai Pickle.
Let's discover the flavours of Kerala with this homemade Kadu Manga Achar recipe. This tangy mango pickle, bursting with aromatic spices, is the perfect accompaniment to elevate your Onam Sadhya. Let's learn how to make this delightful pickle and savour the authentic taste of Kerala's traditional cuisine.
Indulge in the authentic flavours of Kerala with this exquisite recipe for Kadu Manga Achar, which is a staple of the traditional Onam Sadhya. This delectable pickle is a delightful burst of flavours that complements the diverse dishes on your festive spread, creating a truly irresistible condiment that will leave you craving for more.
Don't just confine this pickle just for a Sadhya. Try the ever, heavenly combination of curd rice and pickle... So simple - A Dish, but So divine is its taste...
Cuisine - Indian (Kerala, South India) Recipe Type - Pickle Spice Level - High Difficulty - Easy Yields - 2 - 21/2 Cups Author - SM
Preparation Time - 10 - 15 Minutes Cooking Time - 5 - 10 Minutes Maturing Time - Few Weeks
"The Perfect Pickle: Kadu Manga Achar - A Burst of Flavour from God's Own Country!"
INGREDIENTS:
To mix:
Diced Raw Mangoes - 4 Big Ones
Salt - 3 Teaspoons
For Kadumanga Achar:
Gingelly Oil - 1/4 - 1/2 Cup
Mustard seeds - 2 Teaspoons
Curry Leaves - 5 Sprigs
Chopped Garlic - 1 Big Pod
Ginger - 1" Piece
Green Chillies - 10 Nos.
Turmeric powder - 1 Teaspoon
Red Chilli powder - 5 Tablespoons
Asafoetida - 1/2 Teaspoon
Sugar - a pinch
Vinegar - 2 Tablespoons (optional)
Salt - To Taste
To Dry Roast & Powder:
Fenugreek seeds - 1 Teaspoon
METHOD :
Dice the mangoes into small pieces and mix them with 3 teaspoons of salt until well combined. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow the flavours to develop.
In a dry pan, gently roast the fenugreek seeds on a low flame until they start spluttering. Grind the roasted seeds to a fine powder.
Adjust the amount of salt and chilli powder based on your taste preference.
If the pickle appears dry, you can pour some extra oil to moisten it.
The more oil you use, the longer the pickle can be stored.
Feel free to add more garlic to the pickle if desired.
Dry roasting the fenugreek seeds not only adds flavour but also helps in preserving the pickle.
Sugar can be added for a slight touch of sweetness and to balance the sourness, but it's optional.
Avoid using steel, aluminium, or copper containers as they can react with the acidic nature of the pickle. Instead, use clean and dry porcelain, glass, or ceramic jars.
Always use clean and dry spoons, preferably wooden spoons, to avoid moisture and fungal growth.
Allow the pickle to cool completely before storing it in sterilized bottles.
It's recommended to refrigerate the pickle, which can stay good even with less oil and preservatives.
If you want to add extra oil, heat sesame oil, cool it, and then pour it over the pickle.
When stored properly, the pickle can last for about a year or longer
Traditional Kerala Kanji Meal with Payar, Chammanthi & Achar
"Kerala Kanji (Rice Porridge) – A Soulful Meal with Payar, Chammanthi & Achar"
Feeling under the weather or just nostalgic for home? Kerala Kanji is the bowl of warmth your soul has been craving
Kerala Kanji – the humble rice porridge that’s anything but boring. Known asà´•à´ž്à´žി in Malayalam and கஞ்சி in Tamil, and is revered as a healing food in Ayurvedic traditions, this dish is often served with Cheru Payar Thoran, Thenga Chammanthi, Kadumanga Achar and Pappadam – making it a balanced, nostalgic meal. Whether you're nursing a cold, recovering from therapy, or simply craving comfort, Kanji delivers both flavour and gut-friendly nourishment. Read on for recipes, serving tips, pro tricks, and the real story behind this age-old Kerala comfort food.
Faith & Tradition: Kerala Christian Lent Recipes to Honour the Season
Lent Food of Kerala Christians
Lent is the six-week period leading up to Easter, starting on Ash Wednesday and concluding on Easter Sunday. While Lent is a 40-day observance, there are technically 46 days between Ash Wednesday and Easter. This period holds immense significance for Christians worldwide, particularly within Anglican, Catholic, and Orthodox traditions. Unlike Advent, which is a season of joy and anticipation, Lent is a time of solemn observance, fasting, and spiritual preparation for the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
"Heavenly Comfort of Paal Kanji - Kerala's Coconut Milk Rice Porridge Recipe Infused with Nostalgic Flavours"
Aromatic Nostalgia of Jeerakasala Rice in Our Paddy Fields
My mother's fond recollections of Jeerakasala Rice (Seeraka Samba) cultivated in our family's paddy fields evoke vivid memories of its captivating aroma. During the flowering stage, when the fields are adorned with blooms standing as high as a meter, the air is filled with an inviting fragrance that envelops the entire area. This anecdote is inseparable from her stories, always intertwined with the preparation of Paal Kanji. It paints a vivid picture—a three-dimensional landscape of expansive green paddy fields, where the aroma of Pandanus-infused Jeerakasala Rice blends with the comforting taste of Paal Kanji, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty and nostalgia.
Varieties of Rice Used - Purpose and Preference in Rice Selection for Paal Kanji
Paal Kanji, a cherished Kerala comfort food, is made from rice and coconut milk, known as Milk Porridge due to its preparation with either coconut milk or cow's milk, often garnished with freshly grated coconut. Various rice varieties like Nadan Kuthari, Navara, or Podiyari/Matta Nurukku are chosen for their unique textures and nutritional benefits. Navara Rice, particularly revered in Ayurvedic traditions for its therapeutic properties, holds a special place in the hearts of Kerala households. The choice of rice for preparing Paal Kanji varies based on its intended use and individual preferences.
Cooking Paal Kanji with Jeerakasala Rice
This recipe uses Jeerakasala Rice and is cooked with a blend of thin coconut milk and water. The final addition of thick coconut milk enriches the dish with a creamy texture and rich flavour, making Paal Kanji a luxurious treat.
Traditional Serving Style & Nostalgic Dining Experience with Paal Kanji
Paal Kanji is traditionally served in a Nadan style - KanjiyumPayarum (stir-fried green or red beans with grated coconut), Chammanthiyum (spicy condiment), pinne Chutta Pappadavum
(roasted or fried papad). The meal is enjoyed in deep bowls,
accompanied by a Plavila Kumbil, a spoon crafted from the leaf of a
jackfruit tree, adding a nostalgic touch to the dining experience.
Health Benefits of Paal Kanji - Coconut Milk Rice Porridge:
Paal Kanji offers numerous health benefits, especially when prepared with specific rice varieties and coconut milk:
Easily digestible, suitable for all age groups, particularly beneficial for lactating mothers.
Known to cool the body and aid in healing stomach ulcers.
This porridge comes with lots of health benefits along with the type of rice variety used and Coconut Milk.
Mastering Paal Kanji: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Kerala's Coconut Milk Rice Porridge
Explore the essence of
Kerala cuisine with Paal Kanji, a traditional rice porridge infused with
coconut milk. Discover how this comforting dish reflects Kerala's
culinary heritage and is enjoyed as a main course with its mild spices
and easy preparation.
Ingredients:
Jeerakasala Rice (Seeraka Samba) - 1 cup Thin Coconut Milk - 1½ cups Thick Coconut Milk - 1½ cups Water - 1 cup Salt - to taste Grated Coconut - few tablespoons (optional)
Method:
Prepare Rice:
Clean, wash, and soak the Jeerakasala Rice for 20–30 minutes. Drain well.
Cooking Process:
In a pressure cooker, combine soaked rice with thin coconut milk and water.
Cook under pressure for 1–2 whistles on high flame, then lower the flame and simmer for another 10–12 minutes until the rice is slightly mushy.
Allow the pressure to release naturally.
Final Steps:
Add salt to taste and gently mash the cooked rice with a spatula.
Pour in the thick coconut milk and simmer on a low heat for a few minutes to blend the flavours.
Serve:
Garnish Paal Kanji with grated coconut (optional) and serve hot.
Notes:
Use any variety of rice suitable for porridge. Jeerakasala Rice offers a unique flavour, but Basmati or other raw rice varieties can be substituted.
Adjust cooking times and water ratios based on the rice used and preferred consistency.
Avoid boiling vigorously once thick coconut milk is added to prevent curdling.
Experiment with cow's milk instead of coconut milk for variation.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy Paal Kanji with traditional side dishes like:Can serve this Paal Kanji (Coconut Milk Rice Porridge) with your choice of side dishes like
Pappadam(traditional Kerala Pappadam fried in Coconut Oil)/Chutta Pappadam.
Indulge in the soulful flavours of Kerala with Paal Kanji, a quintessential rice porridge enriched with creamy coconut milk and the aromatic essence of Jeerakasala Rice. This beloved South Indian comfort food satisfies the
palate with its creamy texture and delicate coconut flavour but also
embodies the cultural richness of Kerala's culinary traditions. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a comforting meal, Paal Kanji captures the essence of Kerala's culinary heritage, promising a taste of tradition in every spoonful with the warmth and hospitality of the region.
LEMON PICKLE/NARANGA ACHAR
Pickles are said to be 'HISTORY IN A JAR', and when it comes to Lemon Pickle it is one of the widely pickled Fruit/Vegetable around the world. Lemon with its tangy and refreshing nature rejuvenates and freshen up the dish it is added into, same goes with a Lemon Pickle. There are many versions and methods of preparing Lemon Pickle. When we say, Pickle, it is commonly meant to be preserved in Salted Water/Brine and sometimes in Vinegar.
When we say Pickles, In India it is an absolute SPICY TREAT, laced with Oil - Sesame Oil/Mustard Oil. South Indian Pickles are prepared with Sesame Oil and you can find a note of Asafoetida in few versions. Most pickles are prepared with tangy fruit/vegetable and sometimes some vegetables/fruits are disguised to feel tangy with Vinegar/Lemon Juice/Citric Acid.
This Lemon Pickle Recipe is a traditional old style Kerala Naranga Achar where Lemons are preserved in brine and then pickled. Citrusy Lemons are simply transformed into a spicy & tangy treat with few Spices. This simple Lemon Pickle/Naranga Achar can convert your simple meal into a devouring delicacy, a single slice of Lemon pickle can help you gobble up a big bowl of Rice within no time.
Adjust the amount of Salt and Chilli powder as per your taste preference.
As the Lemons are preserved in brine, they would already be salty.
Pour some extra oil if you feel the Lemon Pickle/Naranga Achar is dry.
More oil, more storage period.
Dry roasting the fenugreek seeds helps to preserve the pickle as well as gives a nice flavour.
Jaggery gives a slight sweetness to the pickle and also balances the sourness. (adding it is truly optional).
Avoid using steel/aluminium/copper containers for storing the pickles, as they tend to react with the acidic nature of salt and the Lemon.
Store them in clean and dry Porcelain/Glass/Ceramic Jars.
Always use clean & dry spoons(preferably wooden spoons) for the pickle.
Wet Jars/spoons can spoil the pickles as the moisture in them helps in the growth of Fungus.
If you feel that extra oil should be added, once the pickle is made, Heat the Sesame Oil, cool it and then pour it over the pickle.
Allow it to cool completely before storing it into sterilized bottles.
Refrigerate the pickle. It can stay good even with less oil and preservatives.
If stored properly, the pickle can last for a year or so.
Avalose Podi Recipe – Classic Kerala Palaharam with Tea & Avalose Unda
Avalose Podi (അവലോà´¸് à´ªൊà´Ÿി) | Roasted Rice Coconut Powder – A Classic Kerala Nadan Palaharam
Avalose Podi (അവലോà´¸് à´ªൊà´Ÿി)isn’t just a snack – it’s a memory, roasted into every Malayalee kitchen. Long before instant mixes and bakery packets, this humble, soulful blend of roasted rice and coconut—gently spiced with cumin and cardamom—was made with love and shared with joy. Avalose Podi has comforted generations during teatime. It’s a shining example of how minimal, native ingredients can come together to create something deeply nostalgic and satisfying.
Also known as Avalos Podi or Avilose Podi, this traditional Kerala snack was lovingly stirred in bronze urulis and served with bananas and steaming Kattan Chaya (Black Tea). From Christmas platters to Vayaru Kaanal packages, Avalose Podi has long held a sacred place in Kerala Christian homes—and beyond. If you're looking to recreate a soul-warming, traditional palaharam at home, this Avalose Podi recipe is your perfect guide.
Don’t stop here — check out Avalose Unda – Sweet Balls of Tradition and roll your way into another story-rich recipe.
Instant Naranga Achar/Instant Lime Pickle is yet another quick & easy Pickle Recipe and when it comes to Sadhya, such instant pickles can easily be prepared beforehand and served. This Lime Pickle is an instant version where I have steam cooked the Limes until soft and tender. In this version, if perfectly cooked you can serve the Pickle on the same day. If the Lime variety tends to be bitter, this instant version of Naranga Achar takes just 4-5 days to get matured perfectly. So If you are planning ahead for a Sadhya, this Achar comes in handy. This Pickle is also commonly termed as Sadhya Naranga Achar.
Normally Lime Pickle is prepared with preserved Lime/Lemons in brine. I have already posted a recipe of Naranga Achar/Lemon Pickle before with preserved Limes. But this is a quick & easy method of preparing the same Achar when you are in literal need to serve it instantly. And when it comes to Sadhya there are few items which can be easily prepared beforehand. Kadu Manga Achar, Vadugapuli Naranga Achar and this Instant Naranga Achar can quickly be incorporated and stored for the purpose.
This Lemon Pickle Recipe is also prepared in the traditional style, with the only difference that the Limes are steamed cooked for a quick fix. Citrusy Lemons are simply transformed into a spicy & tangy treat with few Spices. This simple Instant Lime Pickle/Naranga Achar can convert your simple meal into a devouring delicacy, a single slice of Lime pickle can help you gobble up a big bowl of Rice, particularly Curd Rice within no time.
Adjust the amount of Salt and Chilli powder as per your taste preference.
Pour some extra oil if you feel the Instant Lime Pickle/ Instant Naranga Achar is dry.
More oil, more storage period.
Dry roasting the fenugreek seeds helps to preserve the pickle as well as gives a nice flavour.
Jaggery gives a slight sweetness to the pickle and also balances the sourness. (adding it is truly optional).
Can serve this Instant Lime Pickle/ Instant Naranga Achar immediately.
Avoid using steel/aluminium/copper containers for storing the pickles, as they tend to react with the acidic nature of salt and the Lime.
Store them in clean and dry Porcelain/Glass/Ceramic Jars.
Always use clean & dry spoons(preferably wooden spoons) for the pickle.
Wet Jars/spoons can spoil the pickles as the moisture in them helps in the growth of Fungus.
If you feel that extra oil should be added, once the pickle is made, Heat the Sesame Oil, cool it and then pour it over the pickle.
Allow it to cool completely before storing it into sterilized bottles.
Refrigerate the Instant Lime Pickle/ Instant Naranga Achar. It can stay good even with less oil and preservatives.
If stored properly, the pickle can last for a year or so.
RAW MANGO THOKKU - MANGAI THOKKU
If there is a knot tied in heaven, then it is truly the combination of Curd Rice and Pickle. And if it is a pickle like Raw Mango Thokku, then it takes the relationship to the next level. When my neighbour's Mango tree gets loaded with Mangoes, my experiments with Raw Mangoes becomes endless. I fill my pantry with fresh batches of Mango Pickles like Avakkai, Kadu Manga Achar, Cut Mango PIckle, Instant Mango Pickle, Mangai Thokku and even at times I make Sweet Mango Pickle.
This time I made three different Pickles in a day -
I love Ruchi Urugai's Mango Pickle and used to buy the normal Cut Mango Pickle and Avakkai Urugai frequently. Those were the days I used to buy Pickles and thought Pickle making was a tedious & meticulous job. I have never had an impression with Manga Thokku until I wrongly picked a bottle of Ruchi Urugai with this type of Pickle. Since then I am hooked up with Mango Thokku. Time has changed into such a scenario that I least remember when I bought a bottle of Pickle. I always have a ready stock of different types of pickle in my refrigerator. This Mango Thokku recipe is from my vintage cookbook.
Mango Thokku is a type of Pickle prepared with grated Raw Mangoes and the rest of the process remains the same as a normal Pickle recipe. It is spicy, appetizing and sure to tantalize your taste buds. Combine it up with Curd Rice for an utter delicacy.
Traditional and Nutritious Pazhangkanji/Pazhaya Sadham/Neeragaram
Uppu Karuvadu, Oora Vacha Soru—a lyric from a popular Tamil movie song—refers to the traditional dish of soaked and fermented leftover rice known as Pazhankanji, Pazhaya Sadham, or Neeragaram. This simple yet nutritious dish is a staple in South Indian cuisine, celebrated for its nutritional benefits, health-boosting properties, and refreshing taste.
The Nutritional Power of Fermented Rice
Pazhankanji is made by soaking cooked rice in water overnight, allowing it to ferment mildly. This fermentation process not only enhances the flavour and taste, but also significantly boosts the nutritional value. Adding thick curd or yogurt and a pinch of salt further enriches the dish, making it a wholesome breakfast option. A sprinkle of crushed shallots and bird's eye chillies (Kanthari Mulagu) adds seasonal flavours and additional health benefits.
From Peasants to Royals: The Journey of Pazhankanji
Originally created to prevent food wastage in the absence of refrigeration, Pazhankanji became a vital breakfast for hard-working peasants. It provided sustained energy and kept them full until the next meal. However, this humble dish soon transcended social boundaries, captivating the taste buds of both royals and common folk alike. Revered as 'Amrut' (nectar) by the great Malayalam poet Kunjan Nambiar, Pazhankanji is cherished for its cooling properties and refreshing nature.
The Traditional Preparation of Neeragaram
To prepare Pazhankanji, soak leftover rice in ample water in an earthen pot overnight. The next morning, add curd, crushed shallots, bird's eye chillies, a small piece of ginger, and a few curry leaves. Gently mash the ingredients with a wooden ladle or your hands to create a cool, refreshing, and nutritious breakfast packed with health benefits.
Health Benefits of Pazhankanji
The cooling nature of Pazhankanji soothes the body and aids digestion. I have been making this dish for over 18 years, initially for my husband to help alleviate the symptoms of haemorrhoids. Many have suggested Pazhankanji as an effective home remedy for this condition. Ingredients like shallots and bird's eye chillies heal internal wounds, ginger aids digestion, and curry leaves help reduce high blood pressure. Today, I prepare this dish at least 3–4 times a week, and even my husband's Malay colleagues have embraced it.
A Memorable Scene from Kalipattam
I can never forget the dialogue delivered by actor Mohanlal in the Malayalam movie 'Kalipattam'. He describes the perfect preparation: "Take the Rose Chambavu Rice in a wide porcelain bowl, pour some thick curd into it. Mash it up... mash it up... Add some Pazhuratha Manga Curry cooked with slit green chillies (ripe mango curry), mix it, and gobble it up... You can feel your system cooling down. It’s heavenly indeed." He concludes with, "ithu muzhuvanum Proteinna" (It's filled with protein). Every time I watch the movie, his description makes me crave this delicious Pazhankanji.
Discover more Kanji (Congee) Recipes for a nutritious and stomach-soothing experience. Click here...
Cuisine - Kerala, South India
Spice Level - Low - Medium
Difficulty - Easy
Serves - 2
Author - SM
Preparation Time - 5 -10 Minutes
Soaking Time - 7–10 Hours
How to Make Neeragaram - Traditional Pazhaya Sadham (Pazhankanji)
Neeragaram, also known as Pazhaya Sadham or Pazhankanji, is a classic South Indian fermented rice dish made from leftover rice. This ancient Kerala breakfast is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients and health benefits. Follow this simple recipe to prepare this traditional delicacy.
Ingredients
For Pazhangkanji/Neeragaram:
Left-over Cooked Rice: 1/2 cup Water (at room temperature): 1-1 1/2 cups Yoghurt: 1 cup Shallots: 4-5 nos. Bird’s-eye Chillies (Kanthari Mulagu): 2 nos. Ginger: A small piece Curry Leaves: A few Salt: To taste
Method
Preparing the Base
In a wide bowl, preferably an earthen pot, add the leftover cooked rice.
Pour in 1 to 1 1/2 cups of water at room temperature.
Fermentation
Cover the pot and leave it aside overnight.
This allows the rice to ferment, transforming it into a nutritious and flavourful dish.
Adding Yogurt
The next morning, add a cup of thick yogurt/curd to the rice and water mixture.
This could be done the next day morning, if you prefer a fresh tasting neeragaram.
Some prefer to add curd while soaking the rice in water. This step aids in the fermentation process, enhancing the dish's flavour and nutritional value.
Seasoning
Sprinkle salt to taste.
Add finely chopped or slightly crushed shallots, bird’s-eye chillies, ginger, and curry leaves.
Serving
The next morning, mash the ingredients with a wooden ladle or your hands.
This ensures all the flavours meld together perfectly.
Serving Suggestions:
Pazhankanji
pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments such as pickles,
chammanthi (coconut chutney), puzhukku (mashed vegetables), steamed
tapioca, fish curry (preferably a day old), mango curry, or any thoran
(stir-fried vegetables). For dried fish enthusiasts, a side of dry fish
curry or fry elevates the dish to another level. You can also enjoy it
plain, relishing the cooling sensation as it moves through your
digestive system.
Supports Lactation: Beneficial for lactating mothers.
*Disclaimer
Please remember, these treatment options are only meant as guidelines and in no way replace the advice or treatment provided by your medical practitioner. It is always good to seek the advice of your physician, homeopath, naturopath, or herbalist for professional advice in any matter related to your health. This article is for informational purposes only.
HOW TO PRESERVE RAW MANGOES
April marks the arrival of summer in India. With sweltering heat comes along the seasonal local produces like Mangoes & Jack fruit. The womenfolk utilize the heat to preserve the produces, get ready with pickling, drying etc., Summer in India has become so synonymous to these routines in my mind. A default trip to our hometown in Kerala, where the backyard is lined up with number and number of Mango, Jackfruit, Cashew and Palm Trees. All catering loads of memories wafting with smells and anecdotes.
Loitering around the backyard (or should I say it as a farm, I am not sure) with my grandfather, pickling up Raw and Ripe Mangoes, warnings not to touch the Cashew fruit which can cause blisters with its caustic nature and its exotic aroma lingering throughout the backyard, dunking into a huge bunch of cool Palm fruit or the ice apple, which my grandfather would gently slice off the tops and would ask us to eat it up with an instantly made scoop(spoon) out of the sliced top. And evening snacks would always be a freshly cut Jack fruit or steamed Tapiocas. All these memories flock into my mind when I think of the brief Summer Vacations we have indulged in our childhood days.
Then comes the regional New Year - Vishu or Tamil Puthandu during this Season. I have always felt that a Vishu Sadhya would always be loaded with dishes made out of Mangoes or Jackfruit and Vegetables like Cucumber. So, this year marking the beginning of Summer and with upcoming Vishu, I have planned to post a few recipes with Chakka, Manga and Vellirikka - so synonymous and unique to the Season.
HOW TO PRESERVE RAW MANGOES
Beginning with Raw Mangoes in Brine or simply the Uppilitta Manga. Most of the South Indian households would have huge jars(Bharani) of Uppilitta Manga. Which would readily be converted into pickles later when no mangoes are available or used in curries or condiments. Uppilitta Manga or the Brined Mangoes are used to make Uppu Manga Chalichathu which is a wonderful condiment - spicy, tangy and flavour filled which can make you eat a whole pot of Rice.
Here I have preserved slices of Mangoes in brine, like how my Mom makes. Even Whole Raw Mangoes can be preserved in the same manner. I would write up a post for instant Uppu Manga recipe in future, and it is how my MIL makes Uppu Manga by pressure/steam cooking it. I still need to foolproof the storage period of preserving Mangoes in that manner. Once I perfect it, you can see the method of making Instant Uppu Manga.Uppilitta manga in my blog.
HOW TO PRESERVE RAW MANGOES
This year I got fresh mangoes from my husband's factory, and he is bringing batches over batches of raw mangoes that I have converted it into a few types of Pickles and have also preserved a few in brine. BRINE is basically a salt solution. Also, pickling in brine is free from
any pathogenic bacteria. Pickling was one method to ensure year-long
availability of seasonal products.
Usually, tender mangoes or Kanni Manga are preserved in brine. But here I have preserved slices of Raw Mangoes in salt solution, which could be converted into pickles or used in curries or condiments. Fresh Raw Mangoes of good quality, unspoiled ones without blemishes can be used for the purpose. Utter care should be taken before pickling these mangoes.
Thoroughly sterilize and dry the utensils or jars. Stem, wash and dry
the mangoes before cutting them into slices and adding them to the brine.
Cuisine - Indian
Recipe Type - Pickling
Difficulty - Easy
Yields - 2- 21/2 Cups
Author - SM
Preparation Time -
Maturing Time - Few Weeks
HOW TO PRESERVE RAW MANGOES - RAW MANGO SLICES IN BRINE
HOW TO PRESERVE RAW MANGOES
INGREDIENTS:
Raw Mangoes - 2-3 Cups
Salt - 1/2 Cup
Warm Water - 1/4 Cup
METHOD:
Boil the water and allow it to cool.
Clean & Wash the Mangoes and allow them to dry on a clean kitchen towel.
Wipe them off with a clean cloth to get rid of any extra wetness.
Then Cut the Mangoes into slices.
Take a clean and dry Bottle or Bharani (Porcelain Jar).
Put some salt at the bottom of the Jar.
Put few Mango slices over it.
Again, put some salt and top it up with Mango slices.
Follow the suit until all the mangoes are salted.
Close the lid of the jar and mix well, until the mangoes are well coated with salt.
Pour warm water into the jar and mix well.
Tightly close the jar and keep it aside in a dry & dark place for a few weeks.
Stir the mangoes every two days, so that the essence of mangoes are well infused into the brine.
Initially, the mango slices would float over the brine, but gradually they absorb the brine and double their size.
Sliced Raw Mangoes will be ready within a few weeks time.
These can be stored in a dry and dark place.
In humid climates, it is advisable to keep them refrigerated to avoid spoilage.
HOW TO PRESERVE RAW MANGOES
NOTES:
Can preserve tender Mangoes(Kanni Manga/Kadu Mangai) in the same manner.
Even whole raw Mangoes can be preserved in brine using the same method. But the pickling time would be about 2-3 months or more, depending on the size of the raw mangoes used for preserving.
This
Brine preserved Tender Mangoes or Cut Mangoes make tasty and unique,
briny & spiced pickles, which taste awesome with curd rice.
Avoid using steel/aluminium/copper container for preserving the
mangoes, as they tend to react with the acidic nature of salt and
mangoes.
A suitable method is to store them in clean and dry sterilized Glass/Ceramic/Porcelain Jars.
Always use clean & dry spoons while handling these preserved mangoes.
Wet jars/spoon can spoil the pickle as the moisture in them helps in the growth of Fungus and that would spoil the mangoes.
If stored properly, these preserved mangoes can last for a year or so.
Can use these preserved mangoes to prepare Uppu Manga Chalichathu,
Manga Chammanthi, Kannimanga Achar, Mango Pickles or in Curries. (Just
use the Mangoes and adjust the amount of salt in the recipe).
Essence of Life - Food is all about daily cooking with a simple sense of taste and health. It is all about food. Not a day goes by without eating for most of us, so what we eat matters on the whole. Food in the mode of goodness increases the duration of life, purifies one's existence, and gives strength, health, happiness, and satisfaction. Above all ingredients, the most vital one in my kitchen is love.