Instant Lemon Peel Pickle Recipe is a delicious way to use leftover lemon peels and turn them into a sweet, sour, and spicy homemade pickle. This no-oil lemon pickle is easy to prepare and requires simple ingredients available in your kitchen.
As I mentioned in my lemonade recipes, you can save lemon peels instead of throwing them away. Moreover, these lemon peels can be transformed into a tasty pickle that goes perfectly with Indian meals.
This sweet and sour lemon peel pickle is ready quickly and does not require long sun-drying like traditional pickles. Furthermore, it is a wonderful accompaniment with stuffed parathas, dal rice, and kids’ lunch boxes.
Why You Will Love This Instant Lemon Peel Pickle Recipe
- First, this pickle is a great zero-waste recipe using lemon peels.
- Moreover, it is prepared without oil.
- In addition, it has a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours.
- Furthermore, it is quick and easy to make at home.
- Finally, it pairs beautifully with Indian breakfast and meals.
Ingredients for Instant Lemon Peel Pickle Recipe
- 800 g thinly sliced lemon peels
- 50 g black salt
- 75 g rock salt (sendha namak)
- 1–2 teaspoons Kashmiri red chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, coarsely ground
- 1–2 teaspoons roasted and crushed carom seeds (ajwain)
- 500–700 g sugar (adjust according to taste)
For Storage
- Clean and sterilized glass jar
How to Make Instant Lemon Peel Pickle
Step 1: Prepare Lemon Peels
First, wash the lemon peels properly and cut them into small pieces.
Next, place the chopped lemon peels in a bowl and steam them for 5–7 minutes.
After steaming, carefully remove the bowl from the cooker.
Step 2: Cook the Pickle Mixture
Now, heat a non-stick pan on medium flame.
Add steamed lemon peels, sugar, and salt.
Stir slowly until the sugar melts completely and coats the lemon peels.
Once the sugar dissolves, turn off the flame.
Step 3: Add Spices
After that, add roasted carom seeds, black pepper, and Kashmiri red chilli powder.
Mix everything well so the spices combine evenly.
Allow the pickle mixture to cool completely for 5–6 hours.
Step 4: Store the Lemon Pickle
Once cooled, transfer the pickle into a clean and sterilized glass jar.
Keep it aside for one day so the flavours develop properly.
The next day, your Instant Sweet and Sour Lemon Peel Pickle is ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Peel Pickle
Serve this sweet and sour lemon pickle with:
- Stuffed parathas
- Plain parathas
- Dal rice
- Khichdi
- Thepla
- Indian breakfast dishes
- Kids’ lunch boxes
Tips to Make Perfect Instant Lemon Peel Pickle
- Always use clean and dry glass jars for storing pickle.
- Steam lemon peels properly to make them soft and easy to eat.
- Adjust sugar according to your preferred sweetness.
- Allow the pickle to rest for at least one day for better flavour.
- Use a clean, dry spoon every time to increase shelf life.
How to Store Lemon Peel Pickle
This Instant Lemon Peel Pickle can be stored in a clean airtight glass jar.
When stored properly, it stays fresh for up to 6 months.
Keep the jar in a cool and dry place. Always use a dry spoon while serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make lemon peel pickle without oil?
Yes, this recipe is completely oil-free. The combination of sugar, salt, and spices gives it a delicious flavour and helps preserve the pickle.
How long can I store instant lemon peel pickle?
When stored properly in a sterilized glass jar, this pickle can last up to 6 months.
Can I use leftover lemon peels from lemonade?
Yes, leftover lemon peels from homemade lemonade can be used. However, wash them properly before making the pickle.
Why is my lemon peel pickle bitter?
The white part of lemon peel can sometimes taste bitter. Steaming the peels before cooking helps reduce bitterness and improves the texture.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Lemon Peel Pickle Recipe is a simple and delicious zero-waste recipe that transforms leftover lemon peels into a flavourful homemade achar.
Moreover, this sweet and sour nimbu achar is easy to prepare, oil-free, and perfect with everyday Indian meals. So, next time you make lemonade, save those lemon peels and try this tasty pickle recipe.