Ingredients:
- 250 grams of nellikka (Indian gooseberries or amla)
- 2 tablespoons of red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds
- 2 tablespoons of sesame oil (gingelly oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing)
- 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds for tempering
- Curry leaves (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the nellikka (amla): Wash and dry the nellikka thoroughly. Then, cut them into small pieces, discarding any seeds. If the amla has hard seeds, you can remove them.
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Salt the amla: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped amla pieces with salt and turmeric powder. Mix well and set it aside for about 4-6 hours or overnight. This process will soften the amla.
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Rinse and dry: After the salting process, rinse the amla under running water to remove excess salt. Drain and let them air dry.
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Dry roast the spices: In a pan, dry roast the mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds until they release their aroma and slightly change color. Allow them to cool and then grind them into a fine powder.
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Mix the spices: In a bowl, combine the ground spice mix, red chili powder, and the dried amla pieces. Mix well to coat the amla evenly with the spice mix.
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Temper the pickle: In a small pan, heat sesame oil (gingelly oil) over medium heat. Add asafoetida, mustard seeds, and curry leaves (if using). Fry for a minute until the mustard seeds splutter and the curry leaves become crispy.
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Combine the tempered oil: Pour the hot, tempered oil over the amla and spice mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly.
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Store: Place the nellikka urugai in a clean, sterilized glass jar. Ensure the pickle is tightly packed in the jar to minimize air gaps.
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Mature: Allow the pickle to mature for about a week in a cool, dark place before using. This will allow the flavors to meld and develop.
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Serve: Nellikka urugai is typically served as a side dish with rice, dosa, idli, or any South Indian meal.
Store your Indian gooseberry pickle in a cool, dark place, and it should keep for several months when properly sealed. Enjoy the tangy and spicy flavors of nellikka urugai with your South Indian dishes.