Instructions: Collison - a good book for all sorts of pickles and chutneys. The recipe is not the authors but, even better, is credited to Meena Patak. Those in the UK (and elsewhere?) will know of Pataks Pickles which are good quality Indian pickles and chutneys and are used, I believe, in many restaurants as well as being widely available in the shops. Meena Patak helps run the business but this recipe is apparently a domestic version she makes herself so it comes with good credentials.

I suppose you could just substitute lemons for limes although the size difference might change things a bit.

Mix the soaked and roasted fenugreek, chile powder, turmeric, mustard seeds and salt in a large bowl.

Make 2 cuts across the top of each lime so they are partially split into segments, taking care not to cut all the way through. Stuff each lime generously with the spice mixture.

Heat the oil in a separate pan and toss in the chiles, cloves, cinnamon, pepper and asafoetida. As they begin to pop, pour the oil and spice mixture over the stuffed limes.

Set aside to cool to room temperature before packing in jars (I cant decide what size/shape jars youd use - and the recipe doesnt say - but wide, short jars would probably do the trick)

This pickle should be left for 2-3 months before it is eaten.

Well there it is. Sounds a bit unusual but worth a go.

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