A common thread uniting culinary cultures all around the world - pickles are a must-have for any meal to be called ‘complete’! Every kitchen has their own unique pickle recipe, making them stand out. But the methods to preserve pickles, especially Indian pickles, is almost the same across regions. Here are 5 quick tips you can follow to store your pickles for longer.
Use a glass jar
Choosing the right container to store pickles makes all the difference in both its shelf life and its flavours. This is precisely the reason why we use clean glass jars to store all of our pickles. It is advisable to avoid plastic containers as they can absorb the odours and compromise on the pickles' taste.
Cool & dry storage
Always ensure that you store your pickles in a cool and dry place. Avoiding exposure to direct sunlight and/or other heat sources can help extend your pickles’ shelf life. If you live in a warm environment it is a good idea to refrigerate your pickles to ensure they stay fresh and tasty for longer.
Close the lid
It is important to ensure that your pickle jar is closed tight. This helps keep air and moisture at bay, which in turn prolongs your pickles’ shelf life. Always choose pickles that are filled to the brim of the jar, topped with a layer of oil. This is an indicator of freshness in your pickles.
Use wide-mouthed jars
Storing your pickles in wide mouthed containers gives easy access to the pickle whenever you wish to taste it. We here at Ammatha’s use wide mouthed jars to store our pickles because they are easier to clean and sterilise. Rotating the pickle regularly ensures that the flavour gets evenly distributed.
Use a wooden spoon
Opting for a wooden spoon to scoop out your pickle can ensure that it does not leave behind a metallic aftertaste. Metal spoons are often reactive, tampering with your pickles’ shelf life. Always ensure to use a dry and clean wooden spoon to make sure your pickle lasts longer.
Now that you know what to do, buy fresh handmade pickles from Ammatha’s for your kitchen! Our assortment of South Indian pickles are handmade by experts seasoned in the art of cooking. All of our pickles are born out of recipes passed down to us by generations. So when you take a pinch of our Oorugai, you are also tasting a bit of our culture and heritage!