In Which Month is Mango Pickle Made?

Mango pickles is one of the most prized condiments in Indian cuisine; a flavor, which represents tradition, family, and the unique flavors of the Indian subcontinent. Mango pickles can be seen in most households across the world, giving that tangy, spicy taste and sometimes sweet pickle, which helps to preserve food as more than an accompaniment but a meeting point for culture, seasons, and an art of preserving food. But, do you know which month is especially good for making mango pickles?

Understanding the Mango Season in India
 

Knowing the Mango Season in India Knowing when it's time to prepare mango pickles necessitates knowing the mango season in India. The mangoes generally fall between March and August. This varies a little from state to state, due to various climatic conditions or the different varieties of grown mangoes. All of the varieties of mango suitable for pickling, like Totapuri Rajapuri, Ram Keri and even Kesar, are abundant in the markets during April and May.



And as each of these raw mango varieties stands distinct, so does each variety of mango pickle with diversity in the flavors found in these mango pickles.



During this time, raw mangoes are firm, sour, and have just the right amount of flesh-to-seed ratio while ideal to be pickled. Further, the natural heat during April and May works in great ways to dry out the mango pieces and absorb the spices process pivotal for the whole process of pickling.

The Best Month to Make Mango Pickles
 

June to July are the best seasons for preparing mango pickles . Such weather conditions were favourable for storing the mangoes with strong drying and hot winds, which was critical for preserving the pickle by never letting it get spoiled and keeping the mango pieces crispy and savoury for a long time. Its best to pickle mango for mango pickles after first rain showers as it believed to remove excess heat from mangoes.



Another factor why June and July are great seasons for preparing pickles is the maturity of the mangoes when these months arrive. The unripe mangoes will not become too sour by being too immature while on the other hand will not be mushy if they get too ripe. That is because it must have a balance so that the taste and texture are just right for the pickle.

 
Cultural and Astrological Significance
 
The lunar calendar or Panchang guides Indian households most of the time in determining which days will be favorable. Most would want to start pickle-making during Akshaya Tritiya, which is taken as an auspicious day, especially during springtime.



Besides, there are many proverbs and sayings regarding the ideal time and method to prepare mango pickles, which have been imbibed from generation to generation.


The Role of Mango Pickles in Indian Cuisine
 
Mango pickles are much more than just a garnish and must; they form the essence of Indian culinary history. A simple cup of dal, rice, or parathas takes on a culinary journey with a spoonful of mango pickle. Every state in India has its own style of mango pickle: ranging from fiery Avakaya of Andhra Pradesh, sweet Athanu of Gujarat to spicy Kair Ka Achar of Punjab. Yet all these variants find their exultations in the joyous bounty of mango season.


Tips to Make Perfect Mango Pickles



While making mango pickles, make sure the mango pieces are completely dry before mixing them with salt and spices. Never let the mould grow. Store the pickle in clean and dry utensils and an airtight container. Keep the jar under the sun for some days; sunlight aids in fermentation and flavors it.



Conclusion: Celebrating Tradition 
This is the best mango pickles season of the year during April and May as it coincides with the mango season but also falls within a season of great cultural significance. It simply implies that families will have a possibility to enjoy the real flavor and aroma of this Indian delicacy for months if and when the head of the family decides to prepare the mango pickles during this season. Thus, as summer sunshine heralds its arrival, we have to scrounge the green mangoes to relish in this age-old tradition of making what is usually referred to as delicious mango pickles!