LEMON PICKLE
HOW PICKLES FORM AN IMPORTANT PART OF OUR DIET
Pickles have always been an integral part of Indian cuisine for centuries, adding a burst of flavors to our meals
But have you ever wondered why pickles are such a beloved side dish?
Apart from enhancing the taste of any dish, they come packed with prebiotics aiding digestion and providing essential nutrients to the body
lemon pickle is a traditional indian condiment made with lemons ( or limes ) and spices and an optional ingredient that is oil
pickles are eaten as a side dish in an indian meal and is believed to aid indigestion when eaten in small quantities
Among the vast variety of pickles, sweet lemon pickle stands out for its tangy-sweet flavor and effortless preparation
Let’s dive into the world of lemons and uncover how this simple fruit transforms into a delicious, health-boosting condiment
Let's know A Brief History of Lemons and Pickling
Lemons, scientifically known as Citrus limon, have a rich history dating back to ancient Asia, with records suggesting their cultivation in India as early as 2000 BC
Traders and explorers carried them across continents, making them a staple in various cuisines.
The practice of pickling, on the other hand, has been around for over 4000 years
initially it was used as a preservation technique before the refrigeration was invented.
Today, pickles are enjoyed globally, not just for their longevity but also for their unique taste and various health benefits
Yes! Lemons have found their place in Indian mythology, folklore, and traditional practices for centuries
One of the interesting mythological reference is their association with Goddess Lakshmi and warding off evil spirits
the importance of Lemons in Indian Mythology and Folklore
The Lemon and Goddess Lakshmi
In Hindu mythology, Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, is often linked to lemons.
It is believed that offering lemons in certain regions of temples in india pleases her and invites good fortune into one’s life
In some traditions, devotees place a lemon in a glass of water near their prayer area to attract positive energy and financial prosperity
The belief is that when the lemon starts to decay, it has to absorb the negativity from the environment
how Lemons are used to Ward Off Evil
Another common cultural practice is hanging a lemon and seven green chilies at the entrance of homes, shops, and vehicles
This practice is rooted in the belief that it wards off Alakshmi, the inauspicious sister of Goddess Lakshmi, who brings misfortune in the house
It is said that Alakshmi dislikes anything sour and pungent, and the sharp scent of lemons and chillies keeps her away while allowing prosperity to flow uninterrupted and safeguard against any bad luck
Lemons are also used in Tantric Rituals
In some tantric traditions, lemons are believed to have protective and purifying qualities
They are used in rituals to absorb the negative energies from the surroundings, and some priests roll lemons around a person to remove the “evil eye” or nazar, in other words to clean the aura
Why Should You Make Sweet Lemon Pickle at Home?
Store-bought pickles often contain preservatives and excessive salt, which may not be the healthiest choice
By making pickles at home, you can control the quality and quantity of the ingredients, ensuring a natural, flavorful, and nutritious outcome
Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying to enjoy a homemade pickle made with all the love and care
Ingredients for Sweet Lemon Pickle
5 to 6 lemons (or limes)
Jaggery cubes or powder (equal in quantity to the lemons)
Salt (as per taste)
Red chili powder (as per spice preference)
procedure to make Sweet Lemon Pickle
Prepare the Lemon : Wash the lemons thoroughly and pat them dry and cut them into small pieces in bowl
Melt the Jaggery: Heat a small amount of water and dissolve the jaggery into it, creating a thick syrup. This can be done using either powdered jaggery or jaggery cubes
Marinate the Lemons: Pour the jaggery syrup over the cut lemons and let them sit for 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the flavors of jaggery and lemon to meld
Cook the Mixture: Transfer the lemons and jaggery mixture to a pan or kadhai and cook on a low flame (simmer) until the jaggery syrup thickens and coats the lemons well
Season the Pickle: Turn off the heat, then add salt and red chili powder according to taste, mixing thoroughly
Rest and Store: Keep the mixture covered for some time before transferring it into small, sterilized glass jars. Let the pickle rest for a day, ensuring the spices blend harmoniously
Optional Flavor Boost: The Tadka Twist
For an extra zing, heat a teaspoon of sesame oil (til ka tel), add a pinch of hing (asafoetida), and pour it over the pickle. This adds depth to the flavor and enhances its digestive benefits
Health Benefits of Sweet Lemon Pickle
Nutrient-Rich: lemons are Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and essential minerals
Gut-Friendly: Pickles are a natural source of probiotics, aiding digestion and gut health
Immunity Booster: The combination of lemon and jaggery helps strengthen the immune system
Flavor Enhancer: Elevates the taste of any meal, making even simple dishes exciting
What’s Your Favorite Pickle?
Do you love traditional Indian pickles, or do you prefer experimenting with new flavors? Let me know in the comments!
do watch my other pickle recipe as well
https://reflectwithsmitha.com/tasty-mango-pickle-how-to-make-it-instantly-home-made/
Final Thoughts
Homemade sweet lemon pickle is more than just a condiment—it’s a nostalgic bite of tradition, bringing warmth and flavor to every meal
Try this simple recipe, and experience the joy of making your own healthy, preservative-free pickle
Until next time, keep smiling and savoring every bite!
much love … stay happy … stay blessed .. always
SMITHA
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