Fermented Indian Relish Recipe – A Tangy, Spiced Condiment for Every Meal!

Introduction

If you’re a fan of bold, tangy flavors with a hint of spice, this Fermented Indian Relish is a must-try! This homemade relish combines the crunch of pickling cucumbers, the sweetness of red peppers and onions, and the deep, earthy tones of turmeric, mustard seeds, and cloves. Unlike store-bought versions, this relish is naturally fermented, making it a probiotic powerhouse that boosts gut health while delivering an explosion of flavor.

Fermentation is an age-old practice in Indian cuisine, used to enhance the depth and complexity of flavors. This relish is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, sandwiches, curries, or even as a topping for rice bowls and wraps. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort!

Why Make This Fermented Indian Relish?

Here’s why you should give this relish a try:

Gut-Friendly: Natural fermentation introduces beneficial probiotics that aid digestion.
Rich in Flavor: The combination of spices, garlic, and onion gives this relish a complex, bold taste.
No Artificial Preservatives: Unlike store-bought relishes, this version is free from chemicals and artificial preservatives.
Customizable: You can control the heat level and sweetness to match your taste.
Long Shelf Life: Fermentation extends the shelf life, allowing you to store it for up to 3 months in the refrigerator.

Now, let’s get started!

Ingredients List

To make this fermented Indian relish, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lb (675 g) pickling cucumber, chopped
• 1 small red onion, quartered
• 1 small red pepper, quartered
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped

Spices & Seasonings:

• ½ tsp black pepper, ground
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• ½ – 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust based on spice preference)
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 tbsp pickling salt

Optional for Sweet Fermented Indian Relish :

• ¼ cup (32 g) sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Wash and finely chop the cucumbers, red pepper, onion, and garlic.
• Using a food processor, pulse all the vegetables until finely chopped but not pureed. A chunky texture is ideal.

2. Mix the Spices & Vegetables

• Transfer the processed vegetables into a mixing bowl.
• Add the pickling salt, mustard seeds, turmeric, cinnamon, cloves, chili flakes, and black pepper.
• Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.

3. Pack the Relish into Jars

• Pour the mixture into clean glass quart jars, ensuring you leave about ½ inch of headspace.
• Place a fermentation weight (or a clean, small glass) on top to keep the solids submerged.
• Twist the lid on loosely to allow gases to escape during fermentation.

4. Start the Fermentation Process

• Store the jar in a cool, dark place with a temperature of 65-75°F (18-23°C).
• After 48 hours, check the relish. A white film (kham yeast) may appear on top—this is completely normal.
• Allow fermentation to continue for 5-8 days. You’ll notice a separation of solids and liquids—just stir before serving!

5. Finalizing the Relish

• Once fermentation is complete, remove the weight and replace the lid with a canning lid.
• If you prefer a sweet relish, stir in up to ¼ cup of sugar before refrigerating.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

Tips & Substitutions

Vegetable Variations: Swap cucumbers with zucchini or green tomatoes for a different texture.
Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes based on your heat tolerance.
Fermentation Time: If you prefer a stronger, tangier relish, let it ferment for up to 10 days before refrigerating.
No Pickling Salt? Use sea salt or kosher salt, but avoid iodized table salt as it can interfere with fermentation.
Avoid Metallic Lids: Use plastic or glass lids to prevent rusting from the acidic brine.

Recipe Variations 

1. Sweet & Tangy Relish

• Add ¼ cup sugar to the final mixture before refrigeration for a sweeter profile.
• Pairs well with grilled meats and sandwiches.

2. Spicy Mango Fermented Relish

• Replace half the cucumbers with ripe mangoes for a fruity kick.
• Add extra chili flakes for a spicier touch.

3. South Indian-Style Fermented Relish

• Add curry leaves and a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds for an authentic South Indian flavor.
• Best served with dosa, idli, or rice dishes.

Nutritional Benefits

This fermented relish is not just delicious but also packed with health benefits:

🥒 Cucumbers – Hydrating and rich in antioxidants.
🧄 Garlic – Boosts immunity and supports heart health.
🌶 Chili Flakes – Improves metabolism and adds heat.
🌿 Turmeric – Anti-inflammatory and supports digestion.
🧂 Pickling Salt – Aids in natural fermentation and enhances probiotics.

Each serving is low in calories but rich in gut-friendly bacteria, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

✔ Refrigeration: Store the relish in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
✔ Serving Ideas:

• With Indian Dishes – Serve alongside dal, curries, or rice dishes.
• Sandwich Spread – Use as a tangy spread in burgers or sandwiches.
• Topping for Grilled Meats – Pairs wonderfully with chicken, fish, or steak.
• Wraps & Bowls – Add to burritos or Buddha bowls for an extra zing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of pickling cucumbers?

Yes! However, pickling cucumbers have less water content, making them ideal for fermentation. If using regular cucumbers, remove excess seeds.

2. How do I know if my relish has gone bad?

If you notice foul odors, mold (other than white kham yeast), or an off taste, discard it immediately.

3. Can I make this relish without fermentation?

Yes! Simply mix all ingredients and let them sit in the fridge for a day to blend flavors, but it won’t have probiotic benefits.

4. My relish smells strong – is that normal?

Yes, fermented foods develop a tangy, sour aroma, which is completely natural.

5. Can I use a plastic container instead of glass?

Glass is highly recommended as it doesn’t react with acidic foods. Avoid plastic as it can absorb odors over time.

Exploring the snack recipes on Kitchen Feast, here are some delightful options you might enjoy :

• Jalapeño Corn Relish Recipe – Sweet, Spicy: A fresh and flavorful relish combining crisp corn, sweet bell peppers, spicy jalapeños, and tangy vinegar, perfect for adding a zesty kick to your snacks.
• Chocolate Almond No-Bake Cookies – Easy, Healthy!: These easy and healthy no-bake cookies are perfect for a quick snack, post-workout bite, or even as a refined-sugar-free dessert.
• Pickled Garlic Recipe: Tangy, Spicy, and Easy to Make: A tangy, spicy, and savory condiment that’s easy to make at home, perfect for adding bold flavor to sandwiches, salads, or as a zesty snack straight from the jar.

Conclusion

This Fermented Indian Relish is a game-changer in your kitchen, offering bold flavors, probiotic goodness, and versatility. Whether you use it as a condiment, topping, or side dish, it’s sure to enhance any meal.

Try this recipe today, and let me know how you like it! Comment below with your favorite way to enjoy this relish! 😊