Sweet lemon pickle, known for its delightful blend of sweet, sour, and tangy flavours, is a beloved condiment in many Indian households. This pickle is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a great way to preserve lemons and enjoy their benefits year-round. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps to make this mouth-watering sweet lemon pickle recipe at home.
Ingredients
To make sweet lemon pickle, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 kg lemons
- 500 grams sugar (adjust according to taste)
- 100 grams jaggery (optional, for a richer flavour)
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons red chili powder (adjust according to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds (methi)
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds (saunf)
- 1 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- 1 cup vinegar (optional, for preservation)
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably mustard oil)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Lemons
- Selecting and Washing Lemons: Choose fresh, ripe lemons that are free from blemishes. Wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Drying Lemons: Pat the lemons dry with a clean kitchen towel and leave them to air dry completely. This step is crucial to prevent any moisture from spoiling the pickle.
- Cutting Lemons: Cut each lemon into quarters or smaller pieces if preferred. Remove any seeds as they can add bitterness to the pickle.
Step 2: Pre-Treating the Lemons
- Salting and Turmeric: In a large bowl, mix the lemon pieces with salt and turmeric powder. Toss well to ensure the lemons are evenly coated. This mixture needs to rest for about 24 hours. The salt helps to soften the lemon skins and draw out their moisture.
- Sun-Drying: Spread the salted lemons on a clean tray and leave them in the sun for 2-3 days. This process helps to further soften the lemons and enhance their flavors
Step 3: Preparing the Spice Mixture
- Roasting Spices: Dry roast the fenugreek seeds, mustard seeds, and fennel seeds in a pan over low heat until they turn slightly brown and aromatic. Allow them to cool, then grind them into a coarse powder.
- Making the Syrup: In a large pan, combine sugar, jaggery (if using), and 1 cup of water. Cook over medium heat until the sugar and jaggery dissolve completely, forming a thick syrup. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
Step 4: Combining and Cooking
- Adding Lemons to Syrup: Add the sun-dried lemons to the sugar syrup and mix well. Ensure all lemon pieces are coated with the syrup.
- Adding Spices: Add the roasted spice powder, red chilli powder, and asafoetida to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Cooking the Pickle: Cook the lemon mixture over low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The lemons should become soft and the syrup should thicken. Add vinegar if you prefer a longer shelf life.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Tempering (Tadka): In a small pan, heat mustard oil until it reaches smoking point. Allow it to cool slightly, then add it to the lemon pickle. This step enhances the flavor and helps in preservation.
- Cooling and Storing: Allow the pickle to cool completely. Transfer it to a clean, dry, and airtight glass jar. Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet lemon pickle pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:
- Serve it as a condiment with Indian breads like chapati, paratha, or naan.
- Enjoy it with rice dishes like biryani, pulao, or plain steamed rice.
- Add a spoonful to sandwiches or wraps for an extra burst of flavor.
- Use it as a tangy addition to salads or marinades.
Tips and Variations
- Adjust Sweetness and Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar, jaggery, and chili powder according to your taste preferences.
- Add Garlic or Ginger: For an extra layer of flavor, add minced garlic or ginger to the pickle.
- Preserve Longer: Ensure the jar and utensils used are completely dry to prevent any spoilage. Adding vinegar also helps in preservation.
Conclusion
sweet lemon pickle recipe at home is a rewarding experience. Not only do you get to enjoy a delicious condiment, but you also have the satisfaction of creating something from scratch. This recipe is simple yet versatile, allowing you to customise it to your taste. So, gather your ingredients and get started on this flavorful culinary journey!
For more resources, read our blog:
How to Store Your Homemade Pickles Safely