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Elevate Your Meals With This Easy Nimbu Achar Recipe You Must Try

Prepare Nimbu Achar by cooking lemons in oil with a blend of spices. The result is a tangy and flavorful Indian pickle. This condiment is perfect for adding a burst of citrus flavor to meals. Store it in the refrigerator to enjoy for months to come.

Harpreet Kour Updated: Mar 04, 2025 8:45 PM IST

Make Nimbu Achar by marinating lemons in a spice blend and cooking them in oil. The spice blend includes turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala. Add vinegar for a tangy flavor and store in the refrigerator. This Indian lemon pickle is a great condiment for meals. It's easy to make and can be stored for several months. Enjoy with Indian bread, rice, or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

  • 12-15 lemons (preferably organic and thick-skinned)
  • 1 cup mustard oil or vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup salt
  • 1/4 cup turmeric powder
  • 1/4 cup red chili powder
  • 1/4 cup garam masala powder
  • 1/4 cup fennel seeds (saunf)
  • 1/4 cup fenugreek seeds (methi dana)
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger (optional)
  • 1/4 cup vinegar (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Lemons

  • Wash the lemons thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean towel.
  • Cut off the stems and slice the lemons into wedges or small pieces.
  • Remove any seeds or white pith from the lemons.

Step 2: Create the Spice Blend

  • In a small pan, dry roast the fennel seeds and fenugreek seeds over low heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
  • Grind the roasted spices into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
  • Mix the ground spices with turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt.

Step 3: Marinate the Lemons

  • In a large bowl, combine the lemon pieces, spice blend, garlic (if using), and ginger (if using).
  • Mix well to coat the lemons evenly with the spice blend.
  • Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 2-3 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Cook the Lemons

  • Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  • Add the marinated lemons to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their juice (about 10-15 minutes).
  • Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the lemons are tender and the liquid has thickened (about 30-40 minutes).

Step 5: Add Vinegar (Optional)

  • If using vinegar, stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  • Continue cooking for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar has been absorbed and the liquid has thickened.

Step 6: Cool and Store

  • Remove the pan from the heat and let the achar cool completely.
  • Transfer the achar to a clean, sterilized glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
  • Store the jar in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to mature.
  • The achar will be ready to eat in a few days and will keep for several months in the refrigerator.

Tips and Variations:

  • Use a variety of spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, or cloves, to create a unique flavor profile.
  • Add a few tablespoons of honey or sugar to balance the acidity of the lemons.

  • Use different types of oil, such as olive or avocado oil, for a distinct flavor.

  • Experiment with various types of citrus fruits, such as limes or oranges, to create a different flavor profile.
  • Add a few fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for added freshness and flavor.