Red Chilli Pickle ( Lal Mirch ka Achar)

Ingredients:

Fresh Red Chillies ( Taazi Lal Mirch moti wali): 20  (nos thick )

Asafoetida (Heeng ):1 Tsp

Mustard powder ( Rai ka powder): 3/4 cup

Fenugreek powder ( Methi dana ka powder): ½ cup ( around 40 gm)

Fennel seed powder ( saunf ka powder): 3Tbsp

Dry mango powder ( Amchur powder): 1/4 cup

Turmeric powder ( Haldi powder): 2.5 Tsp

Salt ( Namak): ½ cup ( to taste)

Black salt ( Kala namak): 2 Tbsp ( to taste, its optional)

Mustard oil ( Sarson ka Tel): 500 ml

Method:

1. Thoroughly clean the red chillies with water. Let them dry by using a paper towel. (Make sure that the red chillies are absolutely dry). Slit each red chilli so that it is joined with both the end. And remove the seeds. These seeds can be mixed in the Masala in order to increase the spiciness in the pickle. The more you add seeds the more spicy the pickle will be. If you don’t want to increase spiciness in the pickle , then there is no need to add seeds as Chilli has the spicy flavor inherit in it.

2.To start with first heat Mustard oil in a pan/ kadahi till it starts smoking. Take it out and cool it. Keep aside.

3.Now make the Masala for the pickle.  In a bowl take mustard powder, fennel powder, fenugreek powder, dry mango powder, asafetida, salt, black salt & turmeric powder. Mix well. At this point if you want to increase the spicy flavor of pickle add some seeds into it. Adding seeds is optional.  Now add 2-3 Tbsp mustard oil into it . Mix well.

4. Now Stuff the red chilli with this Masala. Dip each stuffed red chilli into the mustard oil and place in a glass jar. Pack the jar tightly with red chillies by pressing them.

5. Pour the remaining mustard oil over the red chillies. Cover the jar with the lid.

6. Keep the jar in the Sun  for 7-8 days. and use it afterwards. Red Chilli Pickle is ready to serve.

Note:

Red Chilli pickle can be stored for 2-3 years or more. Be cautious while taking out pickle from the jar, the spoon should be completely dry. The cup/bowl for measurement used is given in the pic.

 This Indian Red chilli pickle is served with parathas, stuffed parathas, at  lunch time ,  dinner time, anytime with the meals.

cup/ bowl used for measurement