India, a country of varied cultures and tastes, is famous for its rich gastronomic heritage. Perhaps the most valued part of Indian cuisine is its extensive variety of pickles, chutneys, jams, and traditional preserves. From the pungent zing of garlic pickle to the sweet richness of apple cinnamon jelly, these home-made delicacies add distinctive flavors to our food.
In this blog, we discuss some of the best-selling pickles, chutneys, jams, and traditional preserves that make up the essence of Indian taste.
The Irresistible World of Pickles
Pickles, or 'achars', are part of the very fabric of Indian cuisine. Prepared with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients, they give an extra flavor kick to any dish.
1. Garlic Pickle
Garlic pickle is a favorite with those who enjoy strong flavors. With pungent garlic, sour mustard, and Indian spice blends, this pickle adds flavor to any dish.
2. Mushroom Pickle
A pickle innovation in itself, mushroom pickle is a treat for those who enjoy earthly flavors with a touch of spice.
3. Red Chili Pickle & Green Chili Pickle
For chili aficionados, red chili pickle and green chili pickle are essentials. These spicy pickles are made using fresh chilies, mustard seeds, and a blend of fragrant spices.
4. Lemon Chilli Pickle
The ultimate marriage of pucker and heat, lemon chili pickle combines the sour kick of lemons with the pungency of green chilies to create a delectable side dish for any Indian meal.
5. Mango Pickle
The monarch of pickles, mango pickle is a staple at every Indian kitchen. Prepared with raw mangoes, mustard oil, and spices, it's a classic for all times.
The Spicy World of Chutneys
Chutneys are a ubiquitous part of Indian cuisine, with a plethora of flavors ranging from sweet and tangy to hot and savory.
1. Garlic Ajwain Chutney
This special chutney marries the garlic pungency with ajwain (carom seeds) heat, a tasty addition to any meal.
2. Himachali Green Chilli Garlic Chutney
This is a hot treat from the Himalayan hills of Himachal, prepared using fresh green chilies and garlic.
3. Saunth Chutney
Saunth chutney prepared with dried ginger (saunth) and jaggery is a tangy sweet treat, used liberally in chaats and snacks.
4. Anardana Chutney
Prepared from dehydrated pomegranate seeds, anardana chutney has a combination of sour and sweet tastes, ideal for parathas and snacks.
Sweet Preserves: Jams, Jellies, and Marmalades
Apart from pickles and chutneys, India is famous for its assortment of jams, jellies, and marmalades that highlight the natural sweetness of fruits.
1. Apple Cinnamon Jelly
A perfect blend of succulent apples and pungent cinnamon, this jelly is a morning favorite.
2. Apricot Jam with Almonds
A tasty spread that is prepared with apricots and almonds, the jam provides a rich, nutty flavor.
3. Bitter Orange Marmalade
With its tangy, slightly bitter taste, bitter orange marmalade provides the perfect mix of sweetness and citrus zest.
4. Plum Jam & Strawberry Jam
Filled with flavor and texture, plum jam and strawberry jam are old-time favorites for individuals of all ages.
Traditional Delicacies and Superfoods
In addition to pickles, chutneys, and jams, India is also famous for its traditional preserves as well as health-promoting products.
1. Apricot Kernel & Carrot Murabba
Apricot kernels are nutrient powerhouses, and carrot murabba is a sweet carrot preserve prepared using carrot and sugar syrup, which is renowned for its health-promoting properties.
2. Best Honey
Pure and natural honey is a storehouse of health benefits. It is used extensively as a natural sweetener and medicinally as well.
3. Ginger Juice & Buransh Juice
Ginger juice contains digestion as well as anti-inflammatory qualities, whereas buransh (rhododendron) juice is a traditional Himalayan beverage full of antioxidants.
Conclusion
Indian cuisine is never complete without the country's fabulous repertoire of chutneys, pickles, jams, and preserves. The quintessential ingredients add not just a flavor boost to food, but also epitomize Indian cuisine's flavors so deeply imbedded into its culture. Be it for the hot intensity of chili pickles, or the sour relish of the chutney, or even the sweet richness of the jams, there exists an ideal counterpoint for the taste buds to revel in.
If you are seeking genuine, homemade pickles, chutneys, and preserves, stop by Mount Karol and discover a vast array of hand-made products made with love and tradition!
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