The desire to go back to our hometown gets overwhelming from time to time. The people, chaos, culture, and food from our childhood days are etched in memory, and the realization that that time will never come back again makes the lonely nights lonelier. The longingness to have just one bite of Ma’s home-cooked meal, oozing with love and concern, gets more overpowering as the days pass.

But life gets in the way - endless task lists and busy schedules stop you from going back every time. So we decided to meet you in the middle: if you can’t make it home, we can bring home to you. And what is the most prominent thing that evokes the feeling of nostalgia? The food.

Rich, luscious dals and phulkas with fresh salads, all served with chilled curd and your most favourite side dish: achaar. My Aunty’s Spicy Mango Pickle isn’t just delicious and flavourful, eating it is a complete experience that brings back good memories, and moulds some that you will recall in the future.

Yes, and let us tell you why! If you wish to add a little spice to your everyday meals, but don’t want to cheat on your diet, this is the perfect additive. It’s easily accessible and goes well with almost any dish, Indian or western. Here are some reasons why this pickle is so good for you:

Helps boost immunity

The rich Vitamin C content helps boost immunity, while the other minerals present in this pickle are good for eye and skin health

Rich in antioxidants

Being rich in antioxidants, it combats cell damage, thereby fighting against age-related diseases such as strokes, heart attacks and cancer

Healthy for digestive system

Rich in dietary fiber, mango pickle is absolutely essential for normal and healthy digestive functioning. If you suffer from constipation and indigestion frequently, don’t miss out on having your favourite achaar!

Helps weight loss

It aids in weight loss since it fastens the burning of fat

Good source of calcium

It is a good natural source of Vitamin K and calcium, important for bone health

Every little element that has gone into replicating our heirloom recipes has been carefully considered and added. The mixture is a unique blend of sweet and spicy, with every component playing a huge role in achieving a natural balance. And each ingredient comes with its own set of flavours and benefits. Here is what goes into making this delicious, fan-favourite pickle:

Mangoes

A delicious summertime treat! No matter how high the temperature may be, it doesn’t feel like summer until the arrival of the first batch of ripe, vibrant mangoes. This fruit doesn’t only taste amazing, it has health benefits that no other ingredient can offer! Firstly, it is loaded with Vitamin K which prevents blood clotting as well as Vitamin C which strengthens the immune system. For the digestive system, it helps ease constipation since it is packed with dietary fiber. Lastly, it consists of a compound known as mangiferin which reduces inflammation of the heart and lowers blood pressure, thereby extremely beneficial for promoting cardiovascular health

Red Chilli

As Indians, we are always craving a bit of fiery, red, hot spice – and the best, most nutritional way to achieve that is through red chillies. These chillies enhance the flavours of your dish without compromising on any health benefits. Since it accelerates fat burning and reduces appetite, it is a great diet balancer. Since this ingredient helps increase the secretion of digestive juices, it ensures good digestive health by preventing constipation, gas, and bloating. If you are down with a cough or cold, be sure to add some of this chilli to your meals – not only does it clear nasal congestion it also helps widen the bronchial tubes that help you breathe better.

Mustard Oil

This oil is commonly found in our kitchens since it is used to sauté and stir-fry vegetables. There is a reason why this oil is recommended over the other cooking oils in the market today. Not only does it ensure smooth functioning of the digestive system, it also supports heart health since it is known to reduce high blood pressure. Mustard oil is also great for skin and hair health: it is often used to clear acne and to attain silky smooth hair.

The flavour profile of this pickle is such that it goes well with almost anything. Whether you opt for a classic staple or a more experimental recipe, you know you can’t really go wrong with Aam ka Teekha Achaar. Try serving some of your favourite pickle with these dishes:

Pav Bhaji

We don’t know about you but this is one of our favourite dishes! Sprinkle some chopped onion on your bhaji, and serve along with Aam ka Teekha Achaar. This fiery combination will take you straight to the streets of old Bombay

Corn Cutlets

A perfect snack-time dish! Crunch yet chewy, all your cutlets need is a spicy kick – make sure to add just a dollop of minty chutney and mango pickle to boost the flavours of your dish

Bhel Puri

Who doesn’t love this easy-to-make but just as delicious to eat chaat? The tangy tamarind sauce complements the freshness of the veggies, and all that is missing is the last, most crucial step: spicy mango pickle. This step will give your bhel puri all the flavours it need and make it a wholesome, more well-rounded snack

Mathri

A favourite among North Indians! There’s nothing quite like doodh wali chai and mathri on a rainy day. To make this classic a little more interesting, layer the mathri with some pickle – now that you are hooked, this combo will never be the same again (in a good way, of course!)