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An intensely fiery and aromatic pickle made from the legendary ghost pepper. This traditional recipe balances extreme heat with pungent mustard oil and a blend of classic pickling spices. A tiny spoonful is enough to electrify any meal.
For 32 servings
Prepare the Chilies (Safety First)
Create the Pickle Masala
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An intensely fiery and aromatic pickle made from the legendary ghost pepper. This traditional recipe balances extreme heat with pungent mustard oil and a blend of classic pickling spices. A tiny spoonful is enough to electrify any meal.
This indian recipe takes 35 minutes to prepare and yields 32 servings. At 72.2 calories per serving with 0.5g of protein, it's a moderately challenging recipe perfect for side.
Temper the Oil and Combine Ingredients
Jar and Mature the Pickle
Add 1/4 cup of peeled and lightly crushed garlic cloves along with the chilies for an extra layer of pungent flavor.
To reduce the intense heat, you can mix the bhoot jolokia with a milder chili, like red jalapeños or Kashmiri red chilies, in a 1:1 ratio.
For a tangier pickle, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice along with the vinegar.
Incorporate 1 tablespoon of jaggery powder or brown sugar to the spice mix to balance the heat with a subtle sweetness.
The high concentration of capsaicin in bhoot jolokia peppers can temporarily increase metabolic rate, helping the body burn calories more efficiently.
Capsaicin is a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with conditions like arthritis.
The spices used, such as turmeric, fennel, and mustard seeds, are loaded with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage.
Spices like fennel seeds, fenugreek, and asafoetida are traditionally used in Indian cuisine to promote healthy digestion, reduce gas, and prevent bloating.
A 15g (1 tbsp) serving of Bhoot Jolokia Pickle contains approximately 45-55 calories, primarily from the mustard oil. Since it's used in very small quantities, its caloric impact on a meal is minimal.
In moderation, it can be. The active compound in chilies, capsaicin, has been linked to metabolism-boosting and anti-inflammatory benefits. However, it is high in sodium and oil, so it should be consumed sparingly, especially by those monitoring blood pressure or calorie intake.
Always wear disposable gloves. Work in a well-ventilated kitchen or near an open window. Avoid touching your skin, eyes, or face. If you get chili oil on your skin, wash it with soap and cold water or rub it with vegetable oil or dairy to dissolve the capsaicin.
Mold is almost always caused by moisture. Ensure your chilies, jar, and all utensils are completely dry. Also, always use a clean, dry spoon to serve the pickle, and make sure there's a layer of oil covering the top of the pickle in the jar, as it acts as a barrier.
Yes, you can. The sunning process speeds up maturation. If you can't sun it, keep the jar in a warm, dry place in your kitchen for 2-3 weeks. Shake it every day. The flavor will still develop, just more slowly.
Mustard oil is traditional for North Indian pickles and provides a unique pungent flavor that is essential to the authentic taste. While you can substitute it with another neutral, high-smoke-point oil like sesame or sunflower oil, the final flavor profile will be significantly different.