Indian pickles and chutneys – the sidekicks of the cuisine 

For a cuisine that takes pride in the side dishes, it is no surprise that Indian cuisine has mastered pickle making. Why stick to simple vegetables soaked in vinegar when you can make achaars? 

Pickles started as a way to preserve so one could enjoy it later. That is until we started exploring the potential hidden there. Pickles are made with a wide variety of fruits and vegetables and are served in small quantities with meals to elevate the dish. Pickles are acidic and usually carry intense flavours. This is why they’re served in smaller amounts. 

They can be made and stored for a long time or store-bought. In times of cooking distress, pickles are the saviours that save one from having to throw an entire spread of dishes; some roti and pickle will do. 

Pickles are usually made with a vegetable/fruit of choosing, many specific species, vinegar and salt. The salt and oil added to the pickle ensure that it lasts long without moulding. Pickles are to be eaten after a couple of hours so the flavours can seep in and the pickle can age well. This is an easy way to enjoy fruits well after the season has passed. 

Benefits of Pickles 

Better digestion 

Maintaining healthy bacteria in our bodies is crucial – these help with our digestion. The Indian pickle or achaar is fermented and contains beneficial bacteria to aid digestion. As it’s taken in small quantities along with the meal, it helps restore the bacteria balance in the digestive system and ensures a healthy bowel. 

Good source of vitamins and minerals 

Achaars are made with whole fruits and vegetables that are carefully cooked and preserved with a layer of spices and salt. Having them in the correct quantity also helps absorb nutrients. 

Liver health 

Gooseberries help reduce inflammation in the liver. It can be challenging to consume gooseberries regularly; this is why having gooseberry pickles might help. They can be consumed over a period, which would help protect liver health. 

Antioxidants 

Antioxidants are essential for overall health. As pickles are often made with unripe vegetables, this can be an easy way to incorporate antioxidants into your diet. They’re great for preventing diseases and also support skin health. Pickles, when had in a balance, help consume the nutrition of oils and vegetables. 

Better Immunity 

The goodness of spices is not lost in the Indian pickle. Spices like turmeric are added in abundance and help boost the immune system. The curcumin chemicals found in turmeric are known to help fight viruses and other diseases. It’s also great for brain health. Taking pickles helps ensure your body is getting enough nutrients to absorb. 

North Indian chutneys 

Indian chutneys are not to be confused with Indian pickles. For starters, chutneys have a shorter shelf life and are made in smaller batches. Chutneys are made with fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices. It’s often sweet and tangy. Common ingredients in chutney include mango, tamarind, mint, coriander, ginger and garlic. 

In South India or coaster areas where coconut is abundantly found, chutneys are often made with ground coconut. Chutneys often are garnished with a tadka as well. A tadka is a cooking process where mustard or jeera is added to hot oil. It could also include ginger, garlic, onion, red chilli, and curry leaves. This hot concoction is then poured over a chutney to give it an added flavour. 

Benefits of Chutney : 

The benefits of chutney are often related to the specific ingredients used in it. 

1. Garlic – this helps reduce the risk of diseases and cleanses the gut. It can reduce the chances of high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. 
2. Mint-coriander – like most herbs, these pack in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They also act as fibre, which is essential for any balanced meal. It also cools the stomach, which ensures healthy digestion. 
3. Tomato is rich in vitamins C, B and E and potassium. It’s safe to say incorporating tomatoes into your meal can be very beneficial. It also has a bioactive compound called lycopene, which protects your cells. 

Conclusion 

Pickles and chutneys are sidekicks that steal the show in any Indian meal. They’re packed with nutrients and have many benefits to your overall health. A balanced variety of chutneys and pickles made with whole foods can enrich your health in the long run. 

Also read – Unpacking the Magic: Spices in North Indian Cooking

Amala Justy

A food enthusiast and a blogger – someone who likes to eat and write about it. I’m passionate about exploring different cuisines and challenging my palette. I give into my food craving regularly and am often on the hunt to find my new favorite food place in town.