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Unusual Indian Pickles You’ve Probably Never Tried

India is known for its wide variety of pickles, each region is offering something unique. While mango and lemon pickles are common, there are plenty of unusual pickles you may not have heard of before. These hidden gems are full of bold flavors and local ingredients that will surprise your taste buds. Let’s dive in!

1. Pahadi Lingda Pickle (Fiddlehead Fern)

A delicacy from the Himalayan region, Pahadi Lingda pickle is made from fiddlehead ferns, mustard oil, and aromatic spices. The fern’s slightly crunchy texture and earthy flavor make this a unique pickle you won’t forget.

2. Water Chestnut (Paani Phal) Pickle

Water chestnuts are not just for curries! In some regions of India, they are pickled with mustard seeds, salt, and turmeric. This pickle is crunchy, mildly sweet, and perfect as a side dish with simple rice dishes or parathas.

3. Galgal Pickle (Khatte Ka Achaar)

Galgal, a large citrus fruit from the Himalayan region, is pickled with salt, mustard seeds, and turmeric. This tangy, sour pickle is loaded with vitamin C and pairs well with dal-chawal or stuffed parathas.

4. Banana Peel Pickle

Yes, you read that right! This South Indian specialty turns something often discarded into a delicious pickle. With spices, tamarind, and mustard seeds, banana peel pickle has a tangy, earthy flavor. It’s packed with nutrients and perfect with rice or chapati.

5. Methi Dana Pickle

Methi dana (fenugreek seeds) pickle is a staple in some Rajasthani households. The bitterness of fenugreek seeds is balanced with mustard oil, salt, and spices. It’s a great digestive and pairs well with hot parathas or khichdi.

6. Jackfruit Seed Pickle

In some parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, jackfruit seeds are transformed into a unique pickle. The seeds are boiled, dried, and then pickled with a mix of red chili, mustard, and curry leaves. It has a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture.

7. Himalayan Single Clove Garlic Pickle

This pickle uses rare single clove garlic, known for its bold flavor and medicinal benefits. It’s pickled with mustard oil, turmeric, and chili to create a robust, spicy condiment that enhances any meal.

8. Mushroom Pickle

Mushroom pickle is a lesser-known gem from certain South Indian and North-Eastern regions. The mushrooms are cooked with mustard oil, garlic, and red chili, then pickled for a bold, umami-packed flavor.

9. Kanji Fermented Carrot Pickle

A winter favorite from Punjab, this pickle is made by fermenting black carrots or regular carrots in water with mustard seeds and black salt. It’s tangy, probiotic-rich, and refreshing, often enjoyed as a drink with rice or roti.

10. Fish Pickle

A delicacy from Goa and Kerala, fish pickle is made with fresh fish marinated in vinegar, turmeric, and spices before being preserved in oil. It’s spicy, tangy, and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Why Try These Pickles?

Trying new pickles is a fun way to explore India’s diverse culinary traditions. Many of these unusual pickles are made using local, seasonal ingredients and are often rich in probiotics, which are great for gut health.

So, the next time you’re looking for something new to spice up your meals, give these unique Indian pickles a try also explore masala monk as some of these pickles available in our store!

Have you tried any of these or have a favorite unusual pickle? Share your experiences in the comments below!

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Food Stories from the Hills: Unique Himalayan Foods

The Himalayan region is not just a treasure trove of natural beauty but also a appetizing haven filled with unique flavors, traditions, and stories. The food of the Himalayas reflects the region’s diverse cultures, high-altitude lifestyle, and deep connection to nature. From hearty stews to tangy pickles, Himalayan cuisine is as mesmerizing as the mountains themselves. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to uncover the essence of food from the hills.

The Essence of Himalayan Cuisine

Himalayan cuisine is deeply influenced by the region’s geography and climate. Due to its rugged terrain and cold weather, the food here is designed to provide warmth, nourishment, and energy. The locals rely on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients like lentils, grains, vegetables, and a variety of spices.

Each Himalayan state, whether it’s Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, or Sikkim in India, or neighboring regions like Nepal and Bhutan, has its own distinctive culinary identity.

Staples of the Himalayan Diet

1. Buckwheat and Barley

Due to the high altitude and cold climate, crops like wheat and rice are less common. Instead, buckwheat, barley, and millets dominate the Himalayan fields. These grains are turned into flatbreads, pancakes, or porridge, offering sustenance and energy.

2. Dairy

Yak milk and cow milk are integral to the diet. Butter tea, made with tea leaves, yak butter, and salt, is a popular drink in Ladakh and Tibet, offering warmth and hydration.

3. Pickles and Fermented Foods

Preservation techniques like pickling and fermentation are widely used. Pickles made from radish, bamboo shoots, or even green chilies are staples, adding tangy bursts of flavor to meals. Gundruk, a fermented leafy green dish from Nepal, is a regional favorite.

The Role of Spices and Herbs

Himalayan cuisine uses a unique blend of spices and herbs. Spices like timur (a Sichuan pepper variant), jakhya (wild mustard), and bhang seeds bring distinct flavors to dishes. Herbs like nettle and wild coriander are also commonly used.

Pickles: A Himalayan Specialty

Pickles are an integral part of Himalayan cuisine. From tangy citrus pickles made with Malta oranges to fiery red chili pickles from the hills, each region has its specialty. The high altitude and cool climate give these pickles their unique taste and long shelf life. And guess what Masala Monk has so many Himalayan Pickles in store.

Beverages of the Hills

Himalayan drinks are as diverse as the food. Butter tea is a winter staple, while local brews like chaang (a barley beer) and arak (a distilled drink) are enjoyed during festivals and gatherings. Herbal teas infused with tulsi, ginger, and wildflowers are also popular.

Sustainability and Tradition

Himalayan cuisine embodies sustainability. The locals prioritize seasonal eating and make the most of the available resources. Traditional cooking methods like sun-drying and fermentation not only preserve food but also enhance its nutritional value.

Cultural Significance of Food in the Himalayas

Food in the Himalayas is more than just sustenance; it’s a way of life. Sharing a meal is an act of hospitality, and every dish tells a story of resilience, community, and harmony with nature.

Bringing Himalayan Cuisine to Your Table

Want to experience Himalayan flavors at home? Start with simple dishes like Aloo Ke Gutke or Siddu. Incorporate Himalayan pickles or spices into your meals to enjoy the essence of the mountains.

Himalayan cuisine is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and resourcefulness. Its unique flavors, health benefits, and sustainability make it a treasure trove for food lovers. Next time you think of the Himalayas, let it remind you not just of serene landscapes but also of heartwarming dishes that nourish the soul.

Have you tried Himalayan food? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

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Mooli Green Chilli Pickle Recipe

Winter and pickles are a match made in heaven! As the chilly season sets in, our cravings for bold, flavorful, and warming foods increase, making pickles the perfect companion to our winter meals. This is the time when kitchens come alive with the aroma of freshly made seasonal pickles, preserving nature’s best in a jar. One such winter delight is Mooli Mirchi Achar—a tangy, spicy, and crunchy pickle that adds warmth and zest to every bite. So, embrace the winter vibes and relish homemade pickles with your favorite comfort foods!

Bring a burst of tangy and spicy flavors to your meals with this easy-to-make Mooli (Radish) Green Chilli Pickle. Packed with aromatic spices and mustard oil, this pickle is a perfect accompaniment to your everyday meals.

Ingredients:
• Mooli (Radish): 500 g
• Green Chillies: 200 g
• Fennel Seeds (Saunf): 2 tbsp
• Nigella Seeds (Kalaungi): 1 tbsp
• Fenugreek Seeds (Methi Dana): 1 tbsp
• Mustard Seeds (Rai): 2 tbsp
• Salt: 2 tbsp (adjust to taste)
• Turmeric Powder: 1 tsp
• Red Chilli Powder: 1 tsp
• Mustard Oil: 1 cup

Wash the mooli and green chillies thoroughly. Dry them completely using a clean kitchen towel to remove all moisture (important to prevent spoilage). Peel the mooli and cut it into thin slits. Similarly, slit the green chillies lengthwise.

Lightly roast fennel seeds, nigella seeds, fenugreek seeds, and mustard seeds in a pan over low heat until aromatic. Let the spices cool, then coarsely grind them in a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

In a clean ceramic or glass bowl, combine the mooli slits and green chillies. Add the coarsely ground spices, salt, turmeric powder, and red chilli powder. Pour mustard oil over the mixture and mix everything thoroughly until the vegetables are well-coated with spices and oil.

Transfer the prepared mixture into a clean, dry glass jar. Press the mixture down gently to eliminate any air gaps.
Ensure the vegetables are fully submerged in mustard oil to preserve the pickle. Add more mustard oil if needed. Close the jar tightly and place it in a sunny spot for 4-5 days. Shake the jar daily to ensure even mixing. After fermentation, the pickle is ready to enjoy. Store it in a cool, dark place for long-term use.

Enjoy the goodness of homemade, preservative-free pickle with the authentic taste of traditional spices!

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20 Habits to Level Up Your Life

Life is a series of habits. Whether good or bad, these habits shape who we are and determine the quality of our lives. By consciously adopting positive habits, we can bring about transformative changes. Below, we explore 20 habits that can help you level up your life, backed by actionable advice to get you started.

1. Prioritize Sleep

A good night’s sleep isn’t just restful—it’s regenerative. Studies show that adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep for optimal brain and body function.
Actionable Tip: Set a consistent bedtime and minimize screen time an hour before sleeping to improve your sleep hygiene.

2. Eat Healthy 80/20

The 80/20 rule promotes eating nutritious meals 80% of the time while allowing indulgences 20% of the time. This balanced approach fosters a healthy relationship with food.
Actionable Tip: Plan your meals ahead to ensure your 80% includes whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

3. Exercise and Stretch for 30 Minutes

Physical activity boosts energy, enhances mood, and improves overall health. Stretching increases flexibility and reduces injury risks.
Actionable Tip: Start with simple home workouts or a brisk 30-minute walk, gradually incorporating stretches into your routine.

4. Cook at Home

Cooking at home not only saves money but also ensures control over your ingredients and portions.
Actionable Tip: Dedicate Sundays to meal prep or explore easy, quick recipes to simplify weekday cooking.

5. Wear Sunscreen

Sunscreen is your first line of defense against harmful UV rays, preventing premature aging and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Actionable Tip: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ daily, even on cloudy days.

6. Journal

Journaling clears the mind, improves self-awareness, and serves as a space for gratitude and reflection.
Actionable Tip: Start with a simple prompt like “What made me happy today?” to build the habit.

7. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to appreciating what you have, fostering positivity.
Actionable Tip: Write down three things you’re grateful for every morning or before bed.

8. Meditate and Practice Mindfulness

Meditation reduces stress, improves focus, and enhances emotional well-being.
Actionable Tip: Begin with 5-minute guided meditations available on apps like Calm or Headspace.

9. Limit the News

While staying informed is important, overconsumption of negative news can lead to anxiety.
Actionable Tip: Set a specific time daily for news updates and avoid doomscrolling.

10. Prioritize and Plan Your Day

Planning helps you tackle tasks effectively, reducing stress and boosting productivity.
Actionable Tip: Use a planner or a digital calendar to prioritize your top three tasks for the day.

11. Develop a Morning Routine

A structured morning sets the tone for a productive day.
Actionable Tip: Include habits like stretching, journaling, or drinking water in your morning routine.

12. Develop a Night Routine

A calming night routine signals your body it’s time to wind down.
Actionable Tip: Dim the lights, read a book, or indulge in a skincare ritual before bed.

13. Track Your Finances

Financial awareness is key to long-term stability and stress reduction.
Actionable Tip: Use budgeting apps like Mint to monitor spending and set financial goals.

14. Write Down Your Goals

Writing crystallizes your vision, increasing the likelihood of achievement.
Actionable Tip: Break your goals into actionable steps with specific deadlines.

15. Review and Reflect

Regular reflection ensures you stay aligned with your goals and values.
Actionable Tip: Dedicate 15 minutes weekly to reviewing your progress and identifying areas for improvement.

16. Volunteer Sometimes

Volunteering fosters connection, purpose, and gratitude.
Actionable Tip: Find local opportunities or participate in causes that resonate with you.

17. No Alcohol

Minimizing alcohol consumption improves physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance.
Actionable Tip: Experiment with non-alcoholic alternatives or set alcohol-free days.

18. Invest in Your Future

Investing isn’t just financial; it’s about growth, learning, and building a better version of yourself.
Actionable Tip: Enroll in courses, set up a savings account, or build a fitness regimen.

19. Learn New Skills

Learning keeps the mind sharp and opens up new opportunities.
Actionable Tip: Start with something you’ve always been curious about—be it cooking, coding, or a new language.

20. Connect with Nature More

Nature is a powerful antidote to stress, boosting mood and fostering mindfulness.
Actionable Tip: Schedule regular walks in the park or a weekend hike to stay grounded.

Final Thoughts

Building these habits won’t happen overnight—it’s a journey of small, consistent steps. Choose one or two habits to focus on each month, and over time, watch your life transform. Remember, self-improvement is not about perfection but progress. Start today, and embrace the life you deserve.

FAQs About Building Positive Habits to Level Up Your Life

1. How long does it take to build a habit?

It varies for everyone, but research suggests it can take anywhere from 21 to 66 days to form a habit. Consistency is key to making it stick.

2. Should I try to implement all 20 habits at once?

No, it’s better to start small. Focus on 1-2 habits at a time and gradually add more as they become part of your routine.

3. What if I miss a day? Does it ruin the habit-building process?

Not at all! Missing a day is normal. The important thing is to get back on track the next day without being hard on yourself.

4. How can I stay motivated to maintain these habits?

Set clear goals, track your progress, and celebrate small wins. Having an accountability partner or joining a community can also help.

5. Are these habits suitable for busy schedules?

Yes, most of these habits can be tailored to fit into busy lifestyles. For example, even 5 minutes of journaling or stretching can make a difference.

6. How do I choose which habits to start with?

Identify areas of your life that need improvement or align with your goals. Start with habits that feel the most achievable and impactful for you.

7. Can I modify these habits to suit my lifestyle?

Absolutely. The list is flexible—feel free to adapt the habits to better fit your needs and preferences.

8. How do I overcome procrastination when starting new habits?

Break the habit into small, manageable steps. Pair it with an existing routine, and remind yourself of the benefits it will bring.

9. Are these habits backed by science?

Yes, most of these habits are supported by research in psychology, health, and wellness, emphasizing their positive impact on overall well-being.

10. How do I track my progress with these habits?

You can use habit-tracking apps, journals, or simple checklists to monitor your consistency and celebrate milestones.

Tags: self-improvement, habits to improve life, productivity hacks, personal growth, mindfulness practices, daily routines, health and wellness, positive habits, life hacks, lifestyle changes

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Reusing Cooking Oil: A Balancing Act of Taste, Cost, and Health

Deep-fried food, a staple in many cuisines, often involves reusing cooking oil. While this practice is common, especially in hawker centres, a recent investigation by CNA Insider raises concerns about its potential health impacts. This blog post delves into the key findings, exploring the dilemma faced by both hawkers and consumers in navigating the trade-offs between taste, cost, and health.

Widespread Reuse and Lack of Guidelines: The investigation revealed that all surveyed hawkers reuse their cooking oil, with over half reusing it five or more times. This widespread practice stems from the absence of official health guidelines on oil change frequency.

Health Risks Associated with Reused Oil: Laboratory tests demonstrated that reusing oil, even for just 2-3 times, leads to the formation of oxidized fats and aldehydes, both detrimental to health. Oxidized fats increase heart health risks, while aldehydes are known carcinogens, increasing the risk of cancer.

Impact of Reuse Frequency: Worryingly, the concentration of these harmful compounds, particularly aldehydes, almost doubles in oil reused more than five times compared to oil reused 2-3 times.

Visible Indicators of Oil Degradation: Consumers can be vigilant about the oil used in their food. The smoke point, the temperature at which oil starts to smoke and release harmful compounds, decreases with each reuse. A sustained release of smoke from the oil indicates a high level of degradation. Additionally, oil darkens in colour with repeated use, serving as a visual cue for potential harm.

The Hawker’s Dilemma: While acknowledging the health risks, many hawkers find it challenging to change their practices. Frequent oil changes translate into increased costs, especially with rising oil prices, and impact operational efficiency, potentially leading to customer dissatisfaction.

Home Cooking Offers More Control: Home cooks, however, can reuse oil more safely due to smaller batch sizes. Experts recommend several practices for safer reuse:

  • Frying at lower temperatures (around 175-190°C) to minimize the formation of harmful compounds.
  • Filtering oil after each use to remove food particles that contribute to degradation and taste transfer.
  • Storing used oil in a cool, dark place to prevent further oxidation.
  • Avoiding cross-contamination by using separate oil for frying different types of food, particularly pungent meats.

Ingredient Impact on Oil Degradation: Interestingly, the type of food fried also influences oil degradation. Frying meat, especially chicken, degrades oil faster than vegetables. This is due to the addition of fats, batter, and spices, which contribute to the formation of harmful compounds. It is advisable to discard oil used for frying meat after a single use, while oil used for vegetables can be reused a few times with proper care.

Striking a Balance: Reusing cooking oil is a complex issue with no easy solutions. While eliminating the practice entirely may be impractical, a combination of increased awareness, potential guidelines for hawkers, technological advancements, and consumer vigilance can help mitigate the health risks associated with reused cooking oil. Ultimately, finding a balance between taste, cost, and health is crucial for both hawkers and consumers.

Check the full CNA insider video here.

FAQs

  1. Why is reusing cooking oil harmful to health?
    Reusing cooking oil leads to the formation of harmful compounds like oxidized fats and aldehydes, which increase the risk of heart disease and cancer.
  2. How many times is it safe to reuse cooking oil?
    Experts recommend reusing oil no more than 2-3 times, as repeated heating significantly increases harmful compound levels.
  3. What are the visible signs of degraded cooking oil?
    Degraded oil darkens in color, has a lower smoke point, and may emit a burnt smell or continuous smoke.
  4. Can reused cooking oil be safe for home cooking?
    Yes, if handled properly by filtering after each use, storing in a cool, dark place, and avoiding cross-contamination.
  5. Does the type of food affect oil reuse?
    Yes, frying meat, especially chicken, degrades oil faster due to added fats and batter compared to frying vegetables.
  6. What temperature is safe for frying to minimize oil degradation?
    Frying at lower temperatures, around 175-190°C, minimizes the formation of harmful compounds.
  7. Can oil be reused after frying pungent foods like fish?
    It’s best to avoid reusing oil after frying pungent foods, as flavors can transfer and affect the taste of subsequent dishes.
  8. Is it safe to mix fresh oil with reused oil?
    Mixing fresh oil with reused oil can reduce degradation to some extent, but it’s not a long-term solution to ensure safety.
  9. How can consumers identify reused oil at hawker centers?
    Look for food cooked in overly dark oil or oil that produces sustained smoke, which are signs of excessive reuse.
  10. What are the best oils for frying and reuse?
    Oils with high smoke points, like canola or peanut oil, are better suited for frying and reuse due to their stability.