5 from 1 vote

Ladies Finger Pickle, also known as Bhindi ka Achar, is a flavorful and spicy condiment that adds a zesty kick to your meals.

Made with fresh ladies’ fingers, aromatic spices, and a tangy lemony twist, this homemade pickle is a delightful accompaniment to various Indian dishes.

The careful selection of spices and the traditional tempering process elevate the taste, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Table of Contents

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Ladies Finger Pickle, or Bhindi ka Achar, is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a zesty kick to a variety of meals.
The use of fresh and tender ladies’ fingers is crucial for the pickle’s texture and taste.

Adjust spice levels according to preference, allowing for customization of the pickle’s heat.
Mastering the tempering technique with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and asafoetida enhances the pickle’s aromatic profile.
Low and slow cooking allows spices to infuse gradually, creating a rich and well-balanced taste.

How to Make Ladies Finger Pickle? (Step by Step Guide with Images)

Step 1: Take 250 gm ladies finger and wash it thoroughly. Set them aside to dry.

Step 2: Cut the top and bottom of the ladies’ fingers. Then make a fine longitudinal slit in the body.

Step 3: Now, take a small mixing bowl and combine 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp fenugreek seeds, 2 tsp mustard powder, and 1 tsp turmeric powder.

Step 4: Add 3 tbsp lemon juice to the spice mix and stir well.

Step 5: Insert the spice mix into the ladies fingers.

Step 6: Heat 1½ tbsp sesame oil (or you can use sunflower oil) in a wok.

Step 7: Add a pinch of asafoetida to the heated oil.

Step 8: Add 6 to 8 curry leaves and mustard seeds to the wok.

Step 9: When the seeds start to crackle, add all the ladies’ fingers to the wok. Stir-fry the ladies’ fingers for a few minutes until they soften under low flame.

Step 10: Cover and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 11: Uncover and stir-fry for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 12: Turn off the flame and add the remaining lemon juice and 2 tsp sesame seeds. Mix well.

Step 13: Let it cool for a few minutes, and the ladies finger pickle is ready to serve.

Pro Tips for Making Ladies Finger Pickle

Choose Fresh Ladies Finger: Select fresh and tender ladies’ fingers for the pickle. They should be firm and free from any blemishes.

Thoroughly Dry Ladies Finger: After washing the ladies’ fingers, ensure they are completely dry before slicing. Any moisture can affect the texture of the pickle.

Precision in Slitting: Make fine longitudinal slits in the ladies’ fingers. This helps the spices penetrate the vegetable, imparting a rich flavor.

Balancing Spices: Adjust the spice levels according to your preference. If you prefer a spicier pickle, increase the quantity of red chili powder, and if you like it milder, reduce the amount.

Quality Mustard Powder: Use good-quality mustard powder to enhance the flavor of the pickle. Freshly ground mustard seeds can also be used for a more robust taste.

Even Spice Distribution: Ensure the spice mix is evenly distributed inside the ladies’ fingers. This ensures consistent flavor throughout the pickle.

Low and Slow Cooking: Stir-fry the ladies’ fingers over low flame to prevent burning and to allow the spices to infuse slowly. This helps in achieving the desired texture.

Covering While Cooking: Cover the wok while cooking the ladies’ fingers to retain moisture and cook them evenly. This also helps in softening the vegetable.

Tempering Technique: Master the tempering technique with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and asafoetida. This adds a traditional and aromatic touch to the pickle.

Quality Sesame Oil: Use good-quality sesame oil for an authentic taste. The nutty flavor of sesame oil complements the pickle, but you can use other oils if sesame oil is not available.

Roasted Sesame Seeds: Roast sesame seeds before adding them to enhance their flavor. This step adds a delightful crunch to the pickle.

Adjust Lemon Juice: Adjust the quantity of lemon juice to suit your taste. It not only adds tanginess but also acts as a preservative.

Cool Before Storing: Allow the pickle to cool before storing it in an airtight container. This helps in preserving the flavors and maintaining the texture.

Marination Time: For a more intense flavor, let the ladies’ fingers marinate in the spice mix for some time before cooking.

Serve at Room Temperature: Allow the pickle to come to room temperature before serving. This enhances the flavors, making it more enjoyable.

Experiment with Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like jaggery, garlic, or roasted cumin seeds to create your unique twist to the pickle.

Storing Tips for Ladies Finger Pickle

Airtight Container: Store the ladies finger pickle in a clean and dry airtight container. This helps in preserving its freshness and flavors.

Cooling Before Storage: Allow the pickle to cool completely before transferring it to the storage container. Storing hot pickle can create moisture and affect its shelf life.

Avoid Moisture: Ensure that the container is moisture-free. Any moisture can lead to spoilage or mold growth. A dry environment helps in maintaining the pickle’s texture.

Store in a Cool Place: Keep the container in a cool and dark place, away from direct sunlight. Exposure to sunlight can alter the taste and color of the pickle.

Refrigeration (Optional): While some pickles do well at room temperature, refrigerating the ladies finger pickle can extend its shelf life. Refrigeration slows down the natural fermentation process.

What to Serve with Ladies Finger Pickle?

Indian Meals: Ladies Finger Pickle pairs well with traditional Indian meals such as dal (lentil curry), rice, and various vegetable curries.

Breads: Serve the pickle alongside Indian bread like roti, chapati, naan, or paratha. The tangy and spicy flavors complement the simplicity of these bread varieties.

Rice Dishes: Enjoy the pickle with rice dishes such as biryani, pulao, or simple steamed rice. The pickle adds a burst of flavor to the mildness of the rice.

South Indian Dishes: Incorporate the ladies finger pickle into a South Indian meal with dishes like dosa, idli, or uttapam. The pickle’s bold flavors add a delightful contrast.

Snacks and Appetizers: Use the ladies finger pickle as a condiment for snacks like samosas, pakoras, or kebabs. It adds a zesty kick to these savory treats.

Yogurt-Based Dishes: Pair the pickle with yogurt-based dishes like raita or yogurt rice. The combination of cool yogurt and spicy pickle creates a harmonious balance.

How Does Ladies Finger Pickle Taste?

Ladies Finger Pickle, or Bhindi ka Achar, delights the palate with its spicy, tangy, and savory profile. The heat from red chili powder and mustard powder is balanced by the refreshing tanginess of lemon juice, creating a harmonious flavor.

Aromatic notes arise from the tempering of black mustard seeds and curry leaves, while roasted sesame seeds and sesame oil contribute a nutty undertone and delightful crunch.