Sweet, Sour, Spicy, and Spectacular: Mauritian Bilimbi Pickle in Your Kitchen
Pickle Paradise
Not only is this pickle recipe fun and delicious, but it also incorporates a unique ingredient that you might not have tried before – bilimbi. So why not give it a try and see how it stacks up against your favourite pickles?
Bilimbi pickle has a bold and tangy twist that will revolutionise your pickle game! Let's explore what makes Mauritian pickles stand out from the crowd while bringing some fun facts about bilimbi to the table.
Did you know?
The word pickle comes from the Dutch “pekel” or German “pókel” which means salt and brine.
The World of Pickling: Comparing Indian, Western, and Mauritian Pickles
Pickles are a popular way to add flavour and preserve fruits and vegetables. From the sun-dried process of Indian pickles to the vinegar brine of Western pickles, and the spice-rich, tangy and sweet flavour of Mauritian pickles, each culture has their unique way of pickling.
Indian pickles, often made with ingredients like vinegar, cumin, mango powder, asafoetida, and coriander, are red in colour and lean towards the tangy and spicy side due to the sun-drying process or fermentation involved.
On the other hand, Western pickles rely on a simple pickling brine of vinegar, water, and salt to maintain their crispness.
Mauritian pickles have a unique pickling technique where fruits like mango, carambola, or bilimbi are marinated in a mixture of spices for at least 24 hours. With a blend of ginger and garlic powder, mustard and turmeric powder, the spices bring a burst of flavour to the palate. Unlike their counterparts, the vibrant yellow colour of Mauritian pickles is known for their distinctive balance between sweetness, spiciness and tanginess.
Overall, pickles from around the world offer a playground of flavours that elevate any meal to new heights. Each culture has its unique way of pickling that appeals to flavour enthusiasts, making it an exciting culinary journey to explore.
Fun Facts about Bilimbi
Bilimbi is also known as Averrhoa bilimbi or “sour starfruit” due its tangy flavour.1
It is native to Indonesia and Philippines.2
The fruit is often used in Indonesian and Thai cuisines as a souring agent.
It contains many beneficial nutrients, including vitamin C and antioxidants.3
So, whether you're a pickle connoisseur or just someone looking to add some excitement to your plate, you won't want to miss out on the thrill of Mauritian pickles. They bring together the perfect harmony of flavours, the goodness of bilimbi, and a blend of spices that will awaken your senses.