Coccinia

Coccinia Pickle (Ivy Gourd Pickle)

Coccinia Pickle, also known as Ivy Gourd Pickle or Kundru Pickle in Hindi, is a tangy, spicy, and flavorful South Indian condiment made from Coccinia (Ivy Gourd), a small, green vegetable known for its mildly sweet and slightly bitter taste. This pickle combines the earthy flavor of ivy gourd with a rich mix of spices, creating a delightful accompaniment to rice, roti, dosa, or paratha.

To prepare Coccinia Pickle, the ivy gourd is typically sliced into thin pieces and sautéed or lightly fried to soften it. Then, the vegetable is mixed with a combination of spices such as mustard seeds, fenugreek, cumin, red chili powder, turmeric, curry leaves, and sometimes garlic. Tamarind or lemon juice is added for tanginess, while a bit of jaggery or sugar helps balance the flavors. The mixture is preserved in oil, usually sesame or mustard oil, which not only enhances the taste but also helps the pickle stay fresh for longer.

The resulting Coccinia Pickle is a harmonious blend of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, with the tender texture of the ivy gourd absorbing the spices. This pickle is known for its digestive benefits, as ivy gourd is often used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of health conditions, including diabetes.

Coccinia Pickle is a great choice for those who enjoy bold, tangy condiments with a unique vegetable flavor, offering a fresh and flavorful twist on traditional pickles.