Lime Pickle
Lime Pickle Recipe (Achari ya Ndimu) – Mombasa Style
Nothing beats the tangy, spicy kick of homemade lime pickle with your favorite rice dish. This traditional Mombasa recipe transforms simple limes into a flavorful condiment that elevates every meal.
I’ve been making achari ya ndimu for years, and it’s a staple in my kitchen. The best part? You only need a few ingredients and the power of our beautiful Mombasa sunshine.
Ingredients
- 10–15 ripe, thin-skinned yellow limes
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice or more
- 10–20 whole red chilies (adjust for heat)
- 1–2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 clean glass jar with a tight lid
Instructions
1. Prep the limes
Wash the limes and dry them completely. No water should remain. Cut each lime into 4 pieces. Place in a clean, dry bowl.
2. Season the limes
Add salt, chili powder, and turmeric. Mix to coat the lime pieces evenly.
3. Make the chili paste
Blend the whole red chilies with some lime juice and vinegar until smooth. Pour over the limes. Add more lime juice if needed to cover. Mix well and adjust salt and chili to taste.
4. Jar it up
Transfer into a clean glass jar. Seal tightly. Place in the sun for 1–4 weeks, depending on the weather. Stir every other day with a clean, dry spoon.
5. Check for readiness
Your pickle is ready when the limes are soft, the liquid is thick, and the flavor has deepened.
6. Enjoy and store
Serve with rice, chapati, curries, or grilled meat. Once ready, refrigerate. It keeps for months and up to a year.
👉 Don’t have time to make your own? You can order our homemade Mombasa lime pickle directly from our shop page .
Health Benefits of Mombasa Lime Pickle
Lime pickle has many benefits to name a few;
- Rich in Vitamin C for immunity
- Natural probiotics aid digestion
- Long shelf life without preservatives
- Enhances nutrient absorption with meals
What to Eat Lime Pickle With
Traditional Pairings
- Rice dishes like pilau, biryani, or plain basmati
- Ugali with sukuma wiki
- Chapati and coconut curries
- Grilled tilapia or samaki wa kupaka
Modern Ideas
- Mix into plain yogurt for quick raita
- Spread on sandwiches with avocado
- Serve alongside nyama choma
- Add to salad dressings for a tangy kick
Our ready-made achari ya ndimu is perfect for all these pairings. Get your jar [here]
What Does Pickled Lime Taste Like?
Pickled lime is sour, salty, spicy, and slightly sweet all at once. The skin turns tender and chewy, while the flesh breaks down into a chunky, flavorful sauce.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pickle
- Thin-skinned, yellow limes (common at the Coast)
- Juicy but not overripe
- Avoid thick-skinned types
Climate considerations
- Hot, dry weather: ready in 5–7 days
- Humid season: 2–3 weeks
- Cool weather: up to 1 month
Storage tips
- Always refrigerate once ready
- Keeps up to 1 year
- Flavors deepen over time
Cleanliness rule
Use only clean, dry utensils and jars. Any moisture will spoil the pickle quickly.
Troubleshooting
- Too salty? Add a pinch of sugar and ferment one more day.
- Not tangy enough? Add lime juice and more sun time.
- Liquid evaporating? Normal in hot weather. Add more lime juice.
- White film on top? Scrape off and refrigerate immediately.
Why Make Your Own?
Homemade achari ya ndimu tastes fresher and more vibrant than store-bought versions. You also control salt and spice levels to match your family’s taste. Making your own keeps coastal traditions alive while adding something special to your table.
Or, if you prefer the convenience of ready-to-eat, order a jar of our homemade Mombasa lime pickle today [here]
A Note From My Kitchen
This lime pickle recipe has been passed down through generations of coastal cooks. Each jar tells a story of patience, sunshine, and flavor. Whether you live in Mombasa or beyond, this pickle brings authentic coastal taste to your kitchen.
Start your batch today, or let us prepare it for you. Order a jar of our authentic Mombasa lime pickle page.
Try this Mombasa lime pickle recipe and share your results in the comments. Or order your ready-made jar today and bring authentic flavor to your table.