Nimbu Achar Recipe: Discover the authentic flavors of South India with this quick and easy recipe for traditional South Indian lemon pickle. Perfectly spiced and tangy, this instant lemon pickle is a favorite accompaniment to meals, commonly served in restaurants across the region. The combination of sesame oil and salt acts as a natural preservative, ensuring a longer shelf life for this delightful pickle.
To begin, dry roast fenugreek seeds and asafoetida in a non-stick pan until fragrant, then grind into a fine powder. Boil lemons in water for a few minutes, then quarter them and set aside. In another pan, heat sesame oil and add mustard seeds, green chilies, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant, then add turmeric powder and chili powder. Stir in the lemon pieces, salt, and the ground fenugreek-asafoetida mixture. Simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld together, stirring occasionally.
The versatility of lemons shines through in this delightful pickle, adding a burst of flavor to any meal. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Choose the freshest lemons for optimal flavor.
- Cook the pickle on a low flame, stirring occasionally to ensure the lemons absorb the spices evenly.
- Allow the pickle to cool completely before storing to prevent spoilage.
- Use a glass container for storing, as metal canisters may affect the flavor.
- Store the pickle in a cool place and always use a clean spoon for serving.
Ingredients: Nimbu Achar Recipe
For Lemon Pickle:
- 7 medium-sized lemons
- 1 teaspoon fenugreek (methi) seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- 3/4 cup sesame (til) oil
- 1/2 tablespoon mustard seeds (rai/sarson)
- 3 tablespoons roughly chopped green chilies
- 1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped ginger (adrak)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Method: Nimbu Achar Recipe
- In a small non-stick pan, dry roast fenugreek seeds and asafoetida on a medium flame for 2 minutes, stirring continuously. Once roasted, transfer to a plate and let it cool completely. Then, grind into a fine powder using a mixer. Set aside.
- Boil 4 cups of water in a saucepan. Add the lemons to the boiling water, cover with a lid, and set aside for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, remove the lemons from the water and cut them into quarters. Set aside.
- Heat sesame oil in a small non-stick pan. Add mustard seeds. Once the seeds start crackling, add green chilies and ginger. Sauté on a medium flame for 1 minute.
- Add turmeric powder and chili powder to the pan. Sauté for another minute.
- Now, add the lemon pieces to the pan along with salt and the previously prepared fenugreek-asafoetida mixture. Mix well and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Allow the lemon pickle to cool slightly, then transfer it to an air-tight container for storage. Use as required.
Nutritional Values (per tablespoon):
- Energy: 45 calories
- Protein: 1.3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 3.3 grams
- Fiber: 1.3 grams
- Fat: 2.9 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 277.9 milligrams
Conclusion:
South Indian Nimbu Achar Recipe is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a burst of taste to any meal. By following the provided recipe and tips, you can create a traditional pickle that showcases the authentic flavors of South India. Whether served alongside meals or as a snack, this instant lemon pickle is sure to delight your taste buds.
FAQs about Nimbu Achar Recipe
What makes South Indian lemon pickle unique?
South Indian lemon pickle is characterized by its perfect blend of tanginess and spiciness, achieved through the use of fresh lemons, aromatic spices, and sesame oil. This combination creates a pickle that is a favorite accompaniment to meals in the region.
How do you ensure the best flavor in lemon pickle?
To ensure the best flavor, it’s crucial to use fresh lemons and high-quality spices. Additionally, cooking the pickle on a low flame allows the lemons to absorb the spices evenly, enhancing the overall taste.
Why is it important to cool the pickle before storing?
Cooling the pickle before storing is essential to prevent spoilage. Even slight warmth can lead to quick spoilage, so it’s crucial to allow the pickle to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for storage.
Why is it recommended to use a glass container for storing the pickle?
It’s recommended to use a glass container for storing the pickle as metal canisters may affect the flavor. Glass containers help preserve the freshness and authenticity of the pickle for a longer duration.
What are the nutritional values of South Indian lemon pickle?
Each tablespoon of South Indian lemon pickle provides approximately 45 calories, 1.3 grams of protein, 3.3 grams of carbohydrates, 1.3 grams of fiber, and 2.9 grams of fat.
