Making traditional mango pickle at home might sound like something that only works in Indian summers, but that’s not really true. Even in the UK, you can recreate that bold and tangy flavour with the right method and ingredients. If you’ve been exploring options like Alphonso mangoes in the UK, it’s worth knowing that for pickling, Rajapuri raw mangoes are a much better fit.
You can make a proper homemade pickle that tastes just like it should with a little patience and the right steps.
Ingredients
- Rajapuri raw mangoes
- Salt
- Turmeric powder
- Red chilli powder
- Mustard seeds (coarsely ground)
- Fenugreek seeds (roasted)
- Mustard oil
- Asafoetida (hing)
Process Of Making Mango Pickle
The process of making mango pickle is simple, but every step plays an important role in getting the flavour balanced. Follow the procedure below-
Start Clean and Stay Safe
First, you must wash and dry them thoroughly using a clean towel.
Why this matters– Any moisture will ruin your pickle in the long run, so take your time here.
Cut With Consistency
Now chop the mangoes into medium-sized pieces.
- Don’t go too small.
- Try to keep the sizes even.
This helps everything pickle at the same rate.
Let Salt Do Its Magic
Toss the mango pieces with salt and turmeric in a large bowl and let them sit for 24-48 hours.
- Stir it frequently.
- You’ll see water being released.
This is where the natural preservation process begins.
Build The Flavour Base
Time to prepare the spice mix-
- Coarsely grind mustard seeds.
- Lightly roast fenugreek seeds, then crush them.
- Mix in chilli powder and hing.
This blend is what gives your pickle that bold, signature taste.
Unlock Aroma With Mustard Oil
Heat mustard oil until it just starts to smoke, then let it cool slightly.
- Gets rid of the raw smell.
- Give a rich and zesty overall flavour.
Bring It All Together
Drain off any excess water from the mangoes, and after that-
- Add the spice mix.
- Pour in the mustard oil.
- Stir all the ingredients together.
Make sure that each piece is well-coated.
Let Time Do The Work
Place the mixture in an airtight and clean glass jar.
- Keep it in sunlight for 5-7 days.
- Stir daily using a dry spoon.
This is where the real magic happens, the flavours slowly come together and develop.
A Quick Guide Before You Start
|
Step |
What Happens |
Why It Is Important |
|
Cleaning |
Mangoes are washed and dried |
Prevents spoilage |
|
Cutting |
Pieces are prepared evenly |
Ensures proper curing |
|
Spice Prep |
Masala is prepared |
Builds flavour |
|
Oil Heating |
Mustard oil is treated |
Improves shelf life |
|
Mixing |
Everything combined |
Even coating |
|
Maturing |
Stored for days |
Develops taste |
How Raw Mango Quality Impacts The Final Pickle
Before you start, it is important to know how the quality of raw mangoes directly affects your pickle’s taste, texture and shelf life. Regardless of following all the steps properly, sometimes even the wrong mangoes have the potential to ruin everything.
- Moisture level matters– Mangoes having too much water inside may spoil the spices used.
- Freshness defines flavour– Freshly picked mangoes improve their flavour balance as they age.
- Natural sourness level– An appropriate amount of sourness will ensure that the pickle has the right tang.
Picking the best mangoes helps the spices absorb better and prevents early spoilage. While many people in the UK focus on Alphonso mangoes for their rich sweetness, pickling success depends more on how well the raw mango holds up during curing rather than how it tastes when eaten fresh.
Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Pickle
- Using wet jars or spoons
- Not heating the mustard oil properly
- Adding too little salt
- Skipping sunlight or warmth
Making It Work In UK Weather
Sunlight can be tricky in the UK, so:
- Place jars near a sunny window
- Keep them in a warm indoor spot
- Ensure jars remain airtight
Unlike fresh fruits like Alphonso mangoes in the UK, pickles need controlled conditions and patience.
When Is Your Pickle Ready?
After about a week:
That’s your sign; it’s ready.
Closing Thoughts
Making mango pickle at home isn’t complicated, but it does require care. With Rajapuri raw mangoes and the right steps, you can recreate a traditional, flavour-packed pickle even in the UK.
While Alphonso mangoes in the UK may dominate dessert menus, this humble pickle proves that raw mangoes have their own timeless place in every kitchen.

