Sweet Elephant Apple Pickle | Chalta-r Achar 400g

Tamarind sweet pickle, also known as "Imli ki mithi chutney" in Hindi, is a popular condiment in Indian and South Asian cuisine. It is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, and it typically complements a wide range of dishes. Here's a description of tamarind sweet pickle:

**Ingredients:**
- Tamarind pulp: The primary ingredient, tamarind, provides the tangy and sour flavor to the pickle. Tamarind pulp is extracted from the fruit's flesh and seeds.

**Sweeteners:**
- Sugar or jaggery (unrefined cane sugar) is used to balance the tartness of tamarind, adding a sweet component to the pickle.

**Spices and Flavorings:**
- **Spices:** Common spices include cumin seeds, mustard seeds, red chili powder, and fennel seeds. These spices contribute to the pickle's savory and spicy undertones.
- **Salt:** To enhance the overall flavor and act as a preservative.
- **Ginger and garlic:** Some recipes may include minced or grated ginger and garlic to add complexity and aroma to the pickle.
- **Black salt:** Often used to impart a unique and slightly sulfurous taste.
- **Asafoetida (hing):** Used in small quantities to enhance the pickle's overall flavor.

**Preparation:**
1. The tamarind pulp is first soaked in water to soften it. Then, it's strained to remove any seeds or fibers, leaving behind a smooth paste.
2. The tamarind paste is combined with sugar or jaggery in a pot and cooked over low heat. This step helps dissolve the sweetener and create a syrupy consistency.
3. Spices like cumin, mustard, red chili powder, fennel seeds, salt, ginger, garlic, black salt, and asafoetida are added to the tamarind-sugar mixture.
4. The mixture is simmered until it thickens and reaches the desired consistency. It should have a syrupy, viscous texture that coats the back of a spoon.
5. Once cooled, the tamarind sweet pickle is ready to be stored in a clean, airtight container.

**Usage:**
Tamarind sweet pickle is a versatile condiment that can be served with various dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with the following:

- **Indian snacks:** It's commonly used as a dipping sauce for samosas, pakoras, and other deep-fried snacks.
- **Chaats:** Tamarind sweet pickle is an essential ingredient in popular Indian street foods like pani puri, bhel puri, and dahi puri.
- **Main dishes:** It can be served alongside dishes like biryani, pulao, and various curries to add a sweet and tangy element.
- **Sandwiches and wraps:** It can be used as a spread in sandwiches or wraps to enhance their flavor.

Tamarind sweet pickle adds a burst of flavors to any dish, making it a beloved condiment in Indian cuisine. Its combination of sweet, sour, and spicy notes adds depth and complexity to a wide range of culinary creations.