Bellam Avakaya

Description

Bellam Avakaya is a delightful Andhra-style sweet mango pickle that combines the tanginess of mangoes with the sweetness of jaggery. It’s a unique blend that results in a pickle that is sour, sweet, and spicy all at once. The addition of jaggery not only contributes to the flavor but also gives the pickle a deep brown color. This pickle can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes, including parathas, idli, dosa, and rice, and has a shelf life of over a year, making it a staple in many households.

Here’s a quick recipe overview for Bellam Avakaya:

Ingredients: Totapuri Mangoes, Jaggery, Sesame Oil, Mustard seeds, Red chili powder, Salt, Fenugreek seeds, Turmeric powder, Asafoetida.
Preparation: Clean and cut the mangoes into thick wedges, ensuring the inner shell is intact to increase shelf life. Dry roast fenugreek seeds and grind them along with mustard seeds to a fine powder.
Mixing: In a large bowl, mix the spice powders with grated jaggery, salt, and asafoetida. Coat the mango pieces with this mixture and then add sesame oil.
Storing: Place the spice-coated mango pieces in sterilized jars, top with the remaining oil, and let it rest for 2-3 days to allow the flavors to meld.