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Asli Jhanjh in Everyday Cooking: How to Balance Flavours with Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil

The heart of Indian cuisine lies in its wide variety of spices, each adding its unique note to create the signature Indian taste. But amidst the jeera, dhania, and garam masala lies a hidden gem, often overlooked yet essential for achieving culinary brilliance: Kachchi Ghani mustard oil pressed from sun-dried black mustard seeds using the traditional kachchi ghani method. In this article, we’ll tell you how you can achieve the perfect balance of flavours?


The Art of Balancing Flavours with Emami Healthy & Tasty Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil

Kachchi Ghani mustard oil boasts a strong, pungent flavour that adds a distinct character to Indian cuisine. However, this very quality can be intimidating for those new to using it.

Here's the key: pungency levels. But, what is pungency?

Pungency in mustard oil refers to the intensity of its characteristic sharp and peppery flavour. Mustard oil with a higher pungency level will have a stronger, more pronounced taste, while oil with a lower pungency level will be milder and more subtle in flavour.

Unlike other brands, Emami believes in transparency and encourages people to  check the pack for the declared pungency levels , the ‘Label Dekho’ campaign by Emami Healthy & Tasty is a drive to educate all consumers to check the pungency level of mustard oil before buying.  Emami displays the pungency level transparently on the packaging of the Emami Healthy and Tasty Mustard Oil and is the only brand in India that does this. This pungency number, ranging from Mild/Regular (.24) to Super Strong (.36), reflects the intensity of the oil's flavour. This empowers you, the consumer, to make an informed decision based on your taste preferences and recipe requirements. Emami takes immense pride in the fact that while there are consumer movements like Label Padheha India initiated by celeb influencers, consumers, etc but Emami is the only brand which has been following this philosophy of bringing in transparency and a shift in consumer behaviour by enabling them with Right to Know and Right to Choice.

These are the three distinct pungency levels of Emami Healthy and Tasty Mustard Oil:

  1. Mild/Regular (.24): Emami's Mild Mustard Oil is perfect for those who prefer a subtle hint of mustard flavour in their dishes. With its delicate aroma and gentle taste, this variant is well-suited to recipes where the emphasis is on nuanced flavours and delicate balance.

  2. Strong (.30): Emami's Strong Mustard Oil strikes a harmonious balance between flavour and intensity. With a moderate pungency level, this variant adds a robust depth of flavour to dishes without overpowering other ingredients. It's versatile enough to use in a wide range of recipes, from stir-fries to marinades.

  3. Super Strong (.36): For those who crave a bold, assertive mustard flavour, Emami's Super Strong Mustard Oil is the perfect choice. With its intense, full-bodied profile, this variant adds a fiery kick to dishes, making it ideal for hearty curries, pickles, and other bold-flavoured creations.

Why Is Mustard Oil Good for Cooking?

Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil is more than just a cooking oil. Asli Jhanjh, or Kachchi Ghani is a centuries-old tradition passed down through generations, carrying the essence of slow, meticulous food preparation.


Here are some of the health benefits of Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil:

  • Rich in Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFAs)

  • Excellent Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

  • Natural Antibacterial Properties


How to Balance Flavors with Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil?

The key to using Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil effectively lies in understanding its pungency. Unlike refined oils with a neutral taste, Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil adds its own distinct character. Here's how to create a harmonious balance:

  • Tadka: Tempering, or "tadka'' as it's called in India, involves heating the oil with spices like cumin, mustard seeds, or curry leaves. This releases their volatile oils, infusing the oil with their aroma while mellowing the pungency of Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil.

  • Start Low, Go Slow: As a general rule, begin with a smaller amount of Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil compared to other oils. You can always add more for a stronger flavour later.

  • Let it Bloom, Not Burn: Heat Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil gently. Unlike refined oils with high smoke points, Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil burns easily. Aim for a gentle simmer to unlock its flavours without bitterness.

  • Sauté: Onions, garlic, and ginger are natural flavour enhancers. Sautéing them in Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil adds depth and complexity, allowing the oil's pungency to integrate seamlessly.

  • Acidity is Your Friend: A squeeze of lemon juice, tomatoes, or yoghurt can cut through the richness of Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil, creating a well-rounded flavour profile.

  • Pair it Wisely: Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil shines in dishes that benefit from its robust character, such as stir-fries, dals (lentil soups), and curries with strong spices. Use it sparingly in delicate dishes like fish curries.


Tips for Enhancing Flavors in Everyday Cooking Using Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil

Mustard oil's distinct pungency adds depth and character to a wide array of dishes. From traditional curries to modern fusion recipes, here's how you can harness the true essence of mustard oil in your everyday cooking:

  1. Tempering and Seasoning: Start your culinary journey by infusing mustard oil with aromatic spices like cumin, mustard seeds, and fenugreek. This tempering technique, known as "tadka," imparts a rich, earthy flavour to dals, vegetables, and stir-fries.

  2. Marinating Meats and Seafood: Mustard oil's robust flavour profile makes it an ideal choice for marinating meats and seafood. Combine it with ginger, garlic, and a hint of acidity from lemon or vinegar to tenderise and flavour your protein of choice. Whether grilling, roasting, or pan-searing, mustard oil adds depth and complexity to your dishes.

  3. Salad Dressings and Dips: For a refreshing twist, use mustard oil as the base for your salad dressings and dips. Its peppery notes complement crisp greens and fresh vegetables, elevating simple salads into gourmet delights. Combine with honey, lemon juice, and herbs for a zesty dressing that tantalises the taste buds.

  4. Pickling and Preserving: Mustard oil's inherent preservative properties make it a popular choice for pickling and preserving fruits and vegetables. From tangy mango chutneys to fiery chilli pickles, mustard oil lends its distinctive flavour and helps prolong the shelf life of homemade condiments.

  5. Heating: Mustard oil has a low smoking point, so it's essential to heat it gently to preserve its flavour and nutritional properties. Begin by heating the oil until it reaches a slight shimmer before adding other ingredients.

  6. Moderation: Due to its intense flavour, use mustard oil in moderation, especially if you're new to its taste. Start with smaller quantities and adjust according to your preference.

  7. Storage: Store mustard oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to prevent rancidity. When stored correctly, Emami Healthy and Tasty Mustard Oil maintains its freshness and aroma for extended periods.


How to Choose the Right Pungency Level for Your Mustard Oil?

Choosing the right pungency level of mustard oil is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavours in your culinary creations. Emami Healthy and Tasty Mustard Oil offers a range of options, each tailored to suit different preferences and cooking styles. When selecting the pungency level of mustard oil for your cooking, consider the following factors:

  1. Flavour Preference: Think about your personal taste preferences and the flavour profile of the dish you're preparing. If you enjoy a mild, subtle mustard flavour, opt for Emami's Mild Mustard Oil. For a more pronounced mustard taste, choose the Strong or Super Strong variant.

  2. Recipe Requirements: Consider the specific requirements of the recipe you're cooking. Some dishes may benefit from a stronger, more assertive flavour, while others may call for a milder touch. Select the pungency level that best complements the other ingredients and flavours in the recipe.

  3. Experimentation: Don't be afraid to experiment with different pungency levels to find what works best for you. Start by using small amounts of mustard oil in your recipes and adjust the quantity according to your taste preferences.

  4. Emami's Assurance: Rest assured that whichever pungency level you choose, you're getting a product of the highest quality and integrity. Emami  Healthy & Tasty Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil is renowned for its purity, freshness, and authentic flavour, making it a trusted choice for households across India.


Final Thoughts

With Emami Healthy and Tasty Mustard Oil and its transparent labelling, you can go on a journey of culinary discovery. Experiment with different pungency levels, try new flavour combinations, and master the art of balancing for truly authentic and delicious dishes. So, grab your bottle of Emami Healthy and Tasty Mustard Oil, unleash your inner chef, and get ready to create magic in the kitchen!


Don’t forget to give us a shout out when you see  ‘Label Dekho’ initiative by Emami Healthy & Tasty.

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