Vankaya Pickle – Andhra Style Brinjal Pachadi
Vankaya Pickle (Brinjal Pickle) is a delicious Andhra specialty made with tender brinjals, red chilli powder, mustard powder, garlic, and sesame oil. This spicy and tangy pickle is an excellent alternative to mango pickle and is loved for its rich flavor and unique taste.
It pairs perfectly with hot rice, ghee, chapati, dosa, and curd rice.
Featured Image
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 kg Tender Brinjals (Vankayalu)
- 150 g Red Chilli Powder
- 100 g Mustard Powder (Ava Pindi)
- 75 g Salt
- 1 tbsp Turmeric Powder
- 15 Garlic Cloves
- 250 ml Sesame Oil
For Tempering
- 2 tbsp Mustard Seeds
- 1 tsp Fenugreek Seeds
- 2 Sprigs Curry Leaves
- 4 Dry Red Chilies
Preparation Time
| Details | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 20 mins |
| Cooking | 30 mins |
| Total Time | 50 mins |
| Servings | 1 Jar |
Step 1: Select Fresh Brinjals
- Choose small, tender purple brinjals.
- Wash thoroughly and wipe completely dry.
- Remove stalks and cut into small pieces.
Fresh Brinjals
Step 2: Fry the Brinjals
- Heat 4–5 tablespoons sesame oil.
- Add brinjal pieces.
- Fry on medium flame until soft.
- Allow them to cool completely.
Cooking the Brinjals
Step 3: Prepare the Spice Mix
In a large bowl combine:
- Red chilli powder
- Mustard powder
- Salt
- Turmeric powder
Mix thoroughly.
Spice Preparation
Step 4: Mix the Pickle
- Add cooled brinjal pieces to the spice mixture.
- Add crushed garlic cloves.
- Pour sesame oil gradually.
- Mix thoroughly until all pieces are coated.
Mixing Process
Step 5: Prepare Tempering
- Heat sesame oil.
- Add mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds.
- Add dry red chilies and curry leaves.
- Fry until aromatic.
Pour the tempering over the pickle mixture and mix well.
Tempering the Pickle
Final Vankaya Pickle
Serving Suggestions
Vankaya Pickle tastes delicious with:
- Hot rice and ghee
- Chapati
- Dosa
- Idli
- Curd rice
- Pongal
Storage Tips
- Store in a clean, dry glass jar.
- Use only a dry spoon.
- Keep refrigerated for longer freshness.
- Avoid moisture contamination.
Shelf Life
- Best consumed within 1–2 months when refrigerated.
Tips for Perfect Vankaya Pickle
- Use tender and fresh brinjals.
- Dry the brinjals completely after washing.
- Use quality sesame oil.
- Adjust chilli powder according to spice preference.
- Allow the pickle to rest for 1–2 days before serving for better flavor.
Health Benefits
- Rich in dietary fiber.
- Contains antioxidants.
- Supports digestion.
- Homemade and preservative-free.
Conclusion
Vankaya Pickle is a flavorful Andhra delicacy that combines the goodness of brinjals with aromatic spices and sesame oil. Its spicy and tangy taste makes it a perfect accompaniment to everyday meals and special occasions.