Mumbai food: Ever popped a masala plum after a meal?

Goosebumps Pickles’ new after-meal range will ensure you don’t stop at one

Masala cranberries 

Most of us remember making a beeline to the thela (cart) outside school that would sell imli (tamarind), aamla (Indian gooseberry) green karonda (Carissa carandas), starfruit, bor (berries) and other sour treats. So, last week when Goosebumps Pickles delivered translucent bottles in a cracker four-layer packing, filled with chunks of fruits spiked with masala, these memories came flooding back.

The new after-meal products launched by Goosebumps Pickles, a family business run by a Mumbai-based couple, Pinank Shah and Dr Ishita Mehta, use locally grown fruits and vegetables and give them a delicious twist. We first opted for the bite-sized, deep red cherry tomatoes (R675 for 500 gm) going solely by its cutesy appearance. One juicy bite of the tomato, and you feel the inherent sweetness of the tomatoes blending magically with the homemade masala. Dried in the sun and then splashed with a concoction comprising red chilli flakes, pepper, oregano and other secret ingredients, this one undoubtedly was a delight for our tastebuds. The recipe, we learn, has been culled from Shah’s mother-in-law, Mita Mehta’s repertoire. She and other housewives have rolled out the product.

Currently, there are 12 varieties including cranberries, pomelos, plums, oranges and dates. Although we were excited about the kiwis (R725 for 500 gms), they did not match up to the standard set by their predecessor. The taste was strictly average.

Next up came the sliced oranges (R825 for 500 gm) which according to us, were the best among the lot. What is admirable is the way the makers have managed to balance the citrusy taste of the fruit offered with its skin, along with the peppery smack of the masala. And, for those who don’t mind the pungent aroma and sharp, spicy flavour, we suggest you go for the ginger (R675 for 500 gm). The aftertaste is so strong that you might not want to have anything after that.

While the prices might seem a bit steep, the novelty of the product along with the quality justifies the cost. And, if you are tired of presenting your family, relatives or friends with traditional dry fruits or chocolates, this could be a
good bet.

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