Lassan Achar, also known as garlic pickle, is a popular condiment in many South Asian cuisines. Its robust flavor and pungent aroma make it a delightful addition to meals. Here's a detailed recipe to prepare Lassan achar.
Achar or pickles, are rich in probiotics, aiding digestion and promoting gut health. Additionally, their vibrant flavors add zest and variety to meals, enhancing culinary experiences.
Ingredients:
- 500 grams garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 cup mustard oil
- 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
- 2 tablespoons fenugreek seeds
- 2 tablespoons fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon nigella seeds (kalonji)
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon jaggery or sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup vinegar
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic:
· Peel the garlic cloves and set aside.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
· In a dry skillet, lightly roast the mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, fennel seeds, and nigella seeds until fragrant. Allow them to cool, then grind them into a coarse powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
3. Prepare the Pickling Solution:
· Heat mustard oil in a pan until it reaches the smoking point
· In a bowl, mix together the ground spice mix, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and jaggery (or sugar).
· Add the cooled mustard oil to the spice mixture and mix well.
4. Combine Ingredients:
· In a sterilized glass jar, layer the garlic cloves and spice mixture alternately, ensuring that all the garlic cloves are well coated with the spice mix.
5. Finish and Store:
· Pour lemon juice and vinegar over the garlic cloves until they are completely submerged.
· Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld together. Shake the jar gently every few days to ensure even distribution of the spices.
· Once the lassan achar is ready, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to several months.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
· Lassan achar is best served as a condiment alongside main dishes such as rice, dal, or curry. Its bold flavor adds a punch to any meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
· Spoon out the desired amount of lassan achar onto your plate or directly onto your food and savor the robust flavors of garlic and spices.
Note: Lassan Achar, or garlic pickle, is rich in antioxidants and adds a flavorful punch to meals, while also potentially offering immune-boosting properties due to garlic's medicinal benefits.
7. Variations and Tips:
· For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder or add chopped green chilies to the pickling solution.
· You can customize the sweetness of the pickle by adjusting the amount of jaggery or sugar according to your taste preference.
· Ensure that the glass jar used for storing the pickle is completely clean and dry to prevent any contamination.
· Experiment with adding other spices such as cumin seeds, cloves, or cinnamon to create your unique flavor profile.
· Lassan achar develops its best flavor after a few weeks of maturation, so patience is key to achieving the perfect taste.
8. Health Benefits:
· Garlic, the star ingredient of lassan achar, is renowned for its numerous health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to boosting the immune system, reducing blood pressure, and improving heart health.
· The spices used in the pickle, such as mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and fennel seeds, also offer various health-promoting properties. They are known for their anti-inflammatory, digestive, and metabolism-boosting effects.
9. Culinary Uses:
· Lassan achar can be enjoyed in numerous ways beyond being a condiment. It can be used as a flavoring agent in marinades for meats and vegetables, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
· Incorporate lassan achar into salad dressings, sandwich spreads, or even as a topping for pizzas and burgers to give your favorite recipes a spicy twist.
10. Cultural Significance:
· Pickling is a traditional method of food preservation in many cultures, including South Asian cuisine. Lassan achar, with its bold flavors and aromatic spices, is a beloved condiment that holds cultural significance in many households and is often passed down through generations.
· Sharing homemade lassan achar with friends and family is a gesture of warmth and hospitality, strengthening bonds and creating cherished memories around the dining table.
11. Storage and Shelf Life:
· Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and freshness of lassan achar. Store the pickle in a clean, airtight glass jar to prevent spoilage and contamination.
· Keep the jar away from direct sunlight and store it in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard.
· When stored correctly, lassan achar can have a shelf life of several months to a year. However, it's best to consume it within a reasonable time frame to enjoy its optimal flavor and texture.
Conclusion:
With its intense flavor profile, health benefits, and cultural significance, lassan achar is not just a condiment but a culinary tradition that adds depth and character to meals. Whether enjoyed with traditional dishes or used creatively in modern recipes, Lassan achar is sure to tantalize the taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
