DABLA KERI ATHANU
Introduction:
Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, let's delve into the cherished recipe of Dabla Curry, a
beloved dish deeply ingrained in Gujarati culinary heritage. As we celebrate the season's
abundance, particularly the arrival of tender baby crabs known as Athaan, we embark on a
culinary adventure to create this delightful delicacy. In addition to unveiling the recipe, I'll
share the secret spices crucial for perfecting Athaan and offer detailed guidance on
preserving its flavors for year-round enjoyment.
Date: April 19, 2024
Recipe:
1. Preparing ACHAR Masala:
- Gently roast 250 grams of mustard seeds over a low flame until golden and aromatic,
approximately 3-4 minutes. Let them cool to room temperature.
- Similarly, roast 125 grams of fenugreek seeds until slightly darker, taking care not to burn
them. Let them cool as well.
- Roast 3 tablespoons of salt until free-flowing, ensuring no clusters remain.
- Combine roasted seeds, salt, and 3 tablespoons of asafoetida. Cover and let it sit for 4-5
minutes to blend flavors.
- Add 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder and 1-2 cups of Kashmiri red chilli powder to the
mixture, adjusting the chili powder to desired spiciness.
- Mix the spices thoroughly. This homemade masala will ensure authentic flavor and is
budget-friendly compared to store-bought versions.
2. Preparing Green Mangoes:
- Soak 500 grams of whole green mangoes in water for 30 minutes, then gently wipe them
dry with a clean cloth to remove moisture.
- Cut each mango into quarters, remove seeds, and make cross-cuts to aid spice
absorption.
- Stuff each mango generously with the prepared masala mixture, ensuring thorough filling.
Place the stuffed mangoes in a container and cover them with leftover masala.
- Allow the mangoes to marinate for 24 hours in a cool, dry place.
3. Preservation Process:
- Heat 800-1000 ml of oil (such as sesame or mustard oil) until smoking, then let it cool to
room temperature.
- Slowly pour the cooled oil over the stuffed mangoes in the container, ensuring they are
fully submerged. Reserve some oil to add at last if necessary.
- Gently mix the mangoes in the oil to ensure even coating, then cover the container and
let it rest for 24 hours.
- Afterward, place the container in the sun for 2 days to aid in preservation and enhance
flavor.
4. Storage and Serving:
- Transfer the preserved Athaanu to clean, sterilized glass bottles, ensuring the mangoes
are submerged in oil.
- Seal the bottles tightly and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Allow the pickle to mature for at least 3 days before consuming for optimal flavor.
- To serve, scoop out desired portions into a separate container, ensuring the remaining
pickle remains covered with oil to prevent spoilage.
Additional Tips and Precautions:
- Use freshly roasted spices for the best flavor.
- Ensure the green mangoes are completely dry before stuffing to prevent spoilage.
- Use heated oil for preservation to prolong shelf life.
- Store the pickle in clean, sterilized glass bottles for hygiene.
- Consume within a year for peak taste and quality.
- Wash mangoes thoroughly before use to remove any impurities.
Nutritional Value:
- Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Mustard and fenugreek seeds provide additional health benefits, such as iron, calcium, and
magnesium.
- Consume in moderation due to the high sodium content from salt.
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You've mastered the art of crafting Dabla Keri pickle, a symbol of Gujarati
culinary heritage. Enjoy the authentic taste and share the joy with loved ones. Here's to
many flavorful meals ahead!
Ingredients:
- 250 grams Mustard Seeds
- 125 grams Fenugreek Seeds
- 3 tablespoons Asafoetida
- 3 tablespoons Salt
- 1 tablespoon Turmeric Powder
- 1-2 cups Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder
- 500 grams Whole Green Mangoes
- 800-1000 ml Oil (for preservation)