What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you see unripe/raw mangoes? Lip-smacking avakaya pickle or kaachi keri lathered with salt and chilli. Both might taste great, but pickles/pachadi is my favorite. Pickles have been in Indian cuisine for as long as we can remember. Talking about pickles, my grandmother has her very own recipe which she calls Theeyati Aava – Avakaya Pachadi – mango pickle with my grandmother’s secret ingredient, which binds all the flavors together! Scroll down and find out how to make my family’s avakaya pachadi and get to know more about raw mangoes!

 

Raw mangoes can be stored up to five to seven days, and can be fermented in vinegar or used in pickles, snacks and salads. Pickling or fermenting mangoes is one of the best ways to get the most nutrition. Here are some of the health benefits of this power-packed fruit.

 

1. Preserves the nutrition and fibre content

Since there isn’t direct heat applied, most of the nutritious content is preserved. In fermented pickles healthy bacteria help to break down the hard-to-digest cellulose in foods. Some natural sugar is also broken down. This assists in keeping fermented food safe and less likely to spoil (salt helps in preservation). It also helps in the increase of good bacteria in your gut.

 

2. Packed with immunity-boosting ingredients

Ginger is a great anti-inflammatory and garlic builds good immunity. Fenugreek powder helps in stabilizing the insulin in the body.

 

3. Stimulates the digestive process

Oil-based achars ingredients have multiple health benefits. Mustard, a usual medium for pachadi, aids in digestion. The pungent nature of mustard balances out the sourness from the mango and enhances the flavor.

 

4. Generates healthy bacteria.

Pickling is one of the most traditional ways to ferment veggies and eat them throughout the year. This preservation is done with fresh ingredients like mustard, peanut oil and spices in the right proportion. It's super healthy for the gut, as the fermentation process generates healthy gut bacteria that reboots your gut.

 

Why should you enjoy pickles in moderation?

While it’s always good to know our favorite foods are good for us too, remember that pickles are also super-high in sodium. If you have diabetes, heart issues or have suffered from stroke or hypertension, avoid regular use of pickles or achar. Additional salt intake through consuming excessive achar may aggravate your health further. Consuming achar like a curry can disrupt your digestive system. If not eaten in moderation, it can cause bloating, water retention, high blood pressure and other health concerns. One teaspoon a day should be your maximum intake. Consult our certified and trusted nutritionists to know more.

 

Nutritional Values Of Raw Mangoes VS Ripe Mangoes (per 100 gm)

Source: USDA.gov

 

Mango Pickle with Jaggery — Theeyati Aava Avakaya Pachadi

Note: Cover the lid with a cloth and securely tie it. Let the pachadi rest for three days, add oil, chilli powder, salt etc. if needed and check the taste.