Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that tantalizes your taste buds and leaves you craving more? Then get ready to make the most incredible lime pickle using the trusted Mrs. Wages recipe! This vibrant, tangy pickle is not just a delicious addition to any meal; it's a testament to homemade cooking, a delightful dance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced home chefs looking for a quick dinner idea or a unique addition to their pantry.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lime juice (approximately 12-15 limes)
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup pickling salt (optional, for crispier pickles)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Limes: Wash the limes thoroughly. Using a juicer or a citrus press, extract all the juice. Strain the juice to remove any pulp or seeds for a smoother pickle. You should aim for about 1 cup of fresh lime juice.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the lime juice, white vinegar, sugar, turmeric powder, mustard seeds, celery seeds, ground ginger, cayenne pepper, and salt. If using, add the pickling salt now.
-
Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture slightly thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Sterilize Jars: While the mixture simmers, sterilize your jars and lids. You can do this by washing them in hot, soapy water, then rinsing thoroughly and placing them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
-
Fill and Seal: Carefully pour the hot lime pickle mixture into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, and securely attach the lids.
-
Process (Optional): For longer shelf life, you can process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This step is optional, but recommended if you plan to store the pickle for longer than a few weeks. Ensure the water covers the jars completely during processing.
-
Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely. You should hear a satisfying "pop" sound as the lids seal. Once cooled, store the lime pickle in a cool, dark, and dry place.
Cooking Tips for the Best Lime Pickle:
- Lime Quality: Use fresh, ripe limes for the best flavor. The juicier the limes, the better the pickle will be.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. Start with less and add more if you like a spicier pickle.
- Sugar Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet pickle, reduce the amount of sugar slightly.
Delicious Variations:
- Garlic Lime Pickle: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Ginger Lime Pickle: Increase the amount of ground ginger for a stronger ginger note.
- Spicy Lime Pickle: Add a few finely chopped green chilies for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of lime pickle. Nutritional information will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used. A typical serving size provides a small amount of calories, carbohydrates, and sodium. It's a good source of Vitamin C from the limes. Please note that this is an approximation and it’s recommended to use a nutrition calculator for more precise values.
This Mrs. Wages-inspired lime pickle recipe is a true gem. It's a healthy meal companion, perfect as a condiment with various dishes, adding a zing to your meals! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch.