Garlic Red Chilli Pickle (Traditional Punjabi Recipe)

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Preeti Kalia (@hobbi_espassion)

A traditional Punjabi pickle made with garlic and red chilli, infused with aromatic spices and a hint of jaggery for a sweet and spicy flavor.

Garlic Red Chilli Pickle (Traditional Punjabi Recipe) recipe
Prep Time
30min
Cook Time
15min
Total Time
45min

Ingredients

20 Servings
(1 serving = 1 tbsp)

Main Ingredients

  • garlic (peeled)
    garlic (peeled)
    1/2kg
  • red chilli (washed & cut into halves)
    red chilli (washed & cut into halves)
    1/2kg

Dry Masala

  • salt
    salt
    1tbsp
  • black salt
    black salt
    1tbsp
  • degi mirch
    degi mirch
    1tbsp
  • garam masala
    garam masala
    1tbsp
  • black pepper powder
    black pepper powder
    1tsp
  • black cardamom
    black cardamom
    2
  • cinnamon stick
    cinnamon stick
    1in
  • cumin seeds
    cumin seeds
    1tbsp
  • cloves
    cloves
    8clove
  • asafoetida
    asafoetida
    1pinch
  • jaggery powder
    jaggery powder
    1cup
  • vinegar
    vinegar
    1/2cup

Wet Masala

  • mustard oil
    mustard oil
    4tbsp
  • ginger
    ginger
    2in
  • onion (large)
    onion (large)
    4

How to make Garlic Red Chilli Pickle (Traditional Punjabi Recipe)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Grind black cardamom, cinnamon stick, cumin seeds, and cloves into a coarse powder.

Making the Pickle

  1. Step 1

    Heat mustard oil in a pan until it reaches smoking point, then let it cool slightly.

  2. Step 2

    Add the ginger and onion paste to the oil and sauté until the raw smell disappears.

  3. Step 3

    Add the ground spice mixture, salt, black salt, degi mirch, garam masala, black pepper powder, and asafoetida. Mix well.

  4. Step 4

    Add the garlic and red chilli to the pan and stir to coat them with the spice mixture.

  5. Step 5

    Add jaggery powder and vinegar, and mix until the jaggery dissolves completely.

  6. Step 6

    Cook the mixture on low heat for about 10-15 minutes until the garlic and chillies are well coated and the flavors meld together.

Storage

  1. Step 1

    Transfer the pickle to a sterilized jar and let it mature for a few days before consuming.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

152.5kcal (7.63%)

Protein

1.0g (2%)

Carbs

20.0g (7.27%)

Sugars

7.5g (15%)

Healthy Fat

10.5g

Unhealthy Fat

1.5g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the garlic and chillies are completely dry before using to prevent spoilage.

  2. Adjust the amount of jaggery and vinegar to taste for a sweeter or tangier pickle.

FAQS

  1. How do I make Garlic Red Chilli Pickle using traditional Punjabi methods?

    To make Garlic Red Chilli Pickle, start by grinding black cardamom, cinnamon, cumin seeds, and cloves into a coarse powder. Heat mustard oil until it smokes, then cool slightly. Sauté ginger and onion paste until the raw smell disappears, then add the ground spices, salts, and other spices. Stir in garlic and red chillies, followed by jaggery and vinegar. Cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a sterilized jar and let it mature for a few days.

  2. What are some dietary considerations for Garlic Red Chilli Pickle?

    Garlic Red Chilli Pickle is suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets, as it contains no animal products. However, it is important to note that it is high in sodium due to the salt and black salt used. If you're watching your sodium intake, consider reducing the amount of salt or using a low-sodium alternative.

  3. Can I substitute any ingredients in the Garlic Red Chilli Pickle recipe?

    Yes, you can make substitutions in the Garlic Red Chilli Pickle recipe. For instance, if you don't have jaggery, you can use brown sugar or honey for sweetness. If mustard oil is unavailable, you can use vegetable oil or sesame oil, but the flavor will differ slightly. Additionally, you can adjust the amount of red chillies based on your spice preference.

  4. How should I store Garlic Red Chilli Pickle for maximum freshness?

    To store Garlic Red Chilli Pickle, transfer it to a sterilized glass jar and keep it in a cool, dark place. For best results, allow it to mature for a few days before consuming. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, and it should last for several weeks. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.

  5. What dishes pair well with Garlic Red Chilli Pickle?

    Garlic Red Chilli Pickle pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It complements Indian meals such as parathas, rice, dal, and curries. You can also enjoy it as a condiment with sandwiches or grilled meats. Its sweet and spicy flavor adds a delightful kick to any meal!

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