If you’re a fan of pickles, you must try the Jackfruit pickle recipe. Jackfruit, or Kathal as it’s called in Hindi, is a tropical fruit that can be enjoyed in various ways – from curries to biryanis. But one of the most exciting ways to preserve and enjoy jackfruit is by making Jackfruit pickle.
This simple jackfruit pickle recipe is quick and easy to make, even if you’re new to pickling. It’s a flavorful and tangy condiment that can be paired with almost any Indian meal. If you love experimenting with different types of pickles, the jackfruit pickle recipe should definitely be on your list! Whether you are looking for a Jackfruit pickle recipe Indian style, or a Kerala style pickle recipe, this one is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
What is Jackfruit Pickle?
Jackfruit pickle, known as Kathal ka Achar, is a popular Indian pickle made from raw, tender jackfruit. It’s a wonderful way to savor the unique taste of jackfruit even when it’s not in season. The texture of jackfruit, similar to meat, makes it a favorite among vegetarians as a substitute for meat in many dishes. The pickle combines spices, mustard oil, and vinegar to bring out the natural flavors of jackfruit. It’s tangy, spicy, and incredibly flavorful, making it a great addition to your meals.
Why You’ll Love This Jackfruit Pickle Recipe
- Easy to Make: Making jackfruit pickle is simpler than you think! The main effort is cutting the jackfruit, which can be tricky, but once you get the hang of it, the rest of the process is straightforward.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Whether you’re enjoying a plate of rice, roti, or paratha, this best jackfruit pickle recipe will elevate your meal.
- Long Shelf Life: Once made, the pickle can last for months, so you can enjoy it for a long time after the jackfruit season is over.
- Healthy & Flavorful: Jackfruit is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. When made into pickle, it’s a great way to enjoy this healthy fruit in a different form.
Ingredients for Jackfruit Pickle Recipe
- 1 kg raw jackfruit (Kathal)
- 300 ml edible mustard oil
- 2 tablespoons fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 5 tablespoons split mustard seeds (Rai dal)
- 1 tablespoon nigella seeds (Kalonji)
- 1.5 tablespoons coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons red chili powder
- 2 teaspoons salt (adjust as needed)
- 1 teaspoon asafoetida (Hing)
- 1/3 cup white vinegar
Step-by-Step Jackfruit Pickle Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Jackfruit
Start by blanching or par-boiling the jackfruit pieces in a large pan with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and enough water. It’s important that the jackfruit is tender but not fully cooked. You want it firm enough to hold its shape in the pickle, not mushy.
Step 2: Dry the Jackfruit Pieces
After boiling, drain the water completely. Spread the jackfruit pieces on a clean towel and let them dry for about 1 hour. You can leave them in the sun or under a fan to help evaporate the moisture. This step is crucial because the less moisture in the jackfruit, the better the pickle will keep.
Step 3: Prepare the Spices
In a dry pan, roast the fennel seeds and cumin seeds for 4-5 minutes on medium heat. Once they’re roasted, grind them coarsely. These roasted spices will give your pickle an aromatic flavor.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large kadhai or pan, heat half of the mustard oil to its smoking point. Once the oil has heated up, turn off the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This is an important step because hot oil can burn the spices if they’re added immediately.
Step 5: Mix the Jackfruit and Spices
Add the cooled oil to the jackfruit pieces along with the ground spices, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and vinegar. Mix everything well so that the jackfruit is coated with the spice mixture. This is where the magic happens, as the spices will infuse the jackfruit with a mouthwatering flavor.
Step 6: Store the Pickle
Transfer the jackfruit and spice mixture to a clean glass jar. In a separate pan, heat the remaining mustard oil for 3-4 minutes. Pour the hot oil into the jar over the pickle mixture. The oil should fully submerge the jackfruit pieces to prevent spoilage.
Step 7: Let the Pickle Mature
Seal the jar tightly with a lid and give it a good shake. Store the jar in a sunny spot for about 3-4 days, shaking the jar every day. This helps mix the spices evenly and ensures that the pickle gets all the flavors. After 3-4 days, the pickle should be ready to eat.
Tips for Making the Best Jackfruit Pickle
- Use Mustard Oil: Mustard oil is the key to giving the pickle its distinct flavor. It’s also a preservative, which helps the pickle last for a long time.
- Dry the Jackfruit Well: Make sure the jackfruit pieces are thoroughly dried to avoid excess moisture in the pickle. This will ensure the pickle stays fresh for longer.
- Shake the Jar Regularly: Shaking the jar every few days helps the spices to blend evenly into the jackfruit and enhances the flavor.
- Add Raw Mango (Optional): For a tangy twist, you can add raw mango pieces to the pickle. This is optional, but it adds a wonderful sourness to balance the spiciness.
How to Serve Jackfruit Pickle
This Jackfruit pickle recipe can be enjoyed with almost any Indian meal. You can pair it with rice, roti, paratha, or even as a side with a vegetable curry. It’s the perfect condiment that adds a burst of flavor and spice to any dish.
FAQs About Jackfruit Pickle
Can I use canned jackfruit for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned jackfruit, but fresh raw jackfruit will give the pickle a more authentic taste. If you’re using canned jackfruit, make sure to drain the liquid and cut it into small pieces.
How long does Jackfruit pickle last?
When stored in a clean jar and kept in a cool, dry place, Jackfruit pickle can last for several months. Just make sure the pickle is submerged in oil to preserve it.
Can I make this pickle without mustard oil?
Mustard oil is essential for the authentic flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can use other oils like sesame or vegetable oil. However, the taste will vary slightly.
Conclusion
Making Jackfruit pickle at home is a rewarding and fun experience. This easy Jackfruit pickle recipe will let you enjoy the flavors of this tropical fruit all year round. Whether you’re looking for a Kerala-style pickle recipe or just want to try something new, this recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for your pantry. Give it a try, and you’ll have a pickle that’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a fantastic way to preserve the goodness of jackfruit!
Don’t forget to share your Jackfruit pickle recipe with friends and family – it’s bound to become a favorite in every household!
