Nellikai Pickle (Thokku)

         Nellikai Pickle (Thokku). Pickle or Rice mix made with Gooseberry.

         Nellikai pickle, also known as Nellikai Thokku, is a delightful South Indian condiment made from Indian gooseberries, also called amla.  At Vayal foods, we offer a unique and authentic Nellikai pickle made from fresh Indian gooseberries and a blend of spices.     

         Nellikai pickle can be used in various ways to add a burst of tangy and spicy flavor to your meals. Here are some common ways to enjoy nellikai pickle:

1. 1. As a Side Dish: Serve nellikai pickle as a side dish alongside your main course. It pairs well with rice dishes such as steamed rice, pulao, or biryani. It also complements Indian breads like roti, paratha, or naan.

   2. With Breakfast: Spread nellikai pickle on toast or mix it with yogurt to create a flavorful spread for your morning toast or as a topping for dosa or idli.

   3. In Sandwiches and Wraps: Add nellikai pickle to sandwiches or wraps for an extra kick of flavor. It works particularly well with cheese sandwiches or grilled vegetable wraps.

   4. Mixed in Salads: Incorporate nellikai pickle into salads to add tanginess and spice. It can be mixed with chopped vegetables, greens, and grains to create a unique and flavorful salad.

   5. With Snacks: Use nellikai pickle as a dipping sauce for snacks like samosas, pakoras, or bhajis. Its tangy and spicy flavor adds depth to the taste of these fried snacks.

   6. In Rice Dishes: Mix nellikai pickle into cooked rice dishes such as lemon rice or coconut rice for an extra burst of flavor. It adds a tangy twist to traditional rice preparations.

  Nutritional Benefits : 

1. Rich Source of Vitamin C: Indian gooseberries are exceptionally high in vitamin C, and when preserved in pickle form, they retain much of this nutrient. Vitamin C is essential for boosting the immune system, promoting skin health, and aiding in collagen production.

2. Antioxidant Properties: Both Indian gooseberries and certain spices used in the pickle, such as turmeric and mustard seeds, contain antioxidants. These compounds help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

3. Digestive Aid: Many traditional Indian pickles, including nellikai pickle, contain spices like mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds, which are known for their digestive properties. These spices can help stimulate digestion, relieve bloating, and improve gut health.

4. Potential Anti-inflammatory Effects: Turmeric, a common ingredient in nellikai pickle, contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming foods rich in curcumin may help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions.

5. Gut Health Support: Fermented pickles, which undergo a natural fermentation process, contain probiotics that support gut health. While not all nellikai pickles are fermented, those that are can provide beneficial bacteria to the gut, promoting digestion and overall intestinal health.