Chamoy Pickle
Chamoy Pickle is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 4. 30 calories per serving. Recipe by Spice King on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 10 min
Cost: $12.99 total, $3.25 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 jar Chamoy Pickles (store‑bought, sweet‑spicy pickled vegetables coated in chamoy sauce)
Instructions
Open the Jar
Grip the lid firmly and twist counter‑clockwise. If the lid is stuck, tap the edge with a spoon or use a rubber jar opener.
Time: PT1M
Transfer to Serving Plate
Using a spoon or small fork, scoop the pickles onto a plate or shallow bowl, keeping some of the chamoy sauce for extra flavor.
Time: PT2M
Enjoy Immediately or Chill
Serve the chamoy pickles as a snack right away, or cover and refrigerate for up to two weeks for a firmer texture.
Time: PT2M
Clean Up
Rinse the spoon, plate, and any other utensils used. Wipe the jar rim before resealing.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 30
- Protein
- 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 7 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten‑Free (check label for soy sauce)
Allergens: Soy (if chamoy contains soy sauce)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Chamoy Pickles: Pickled jalapeños tossed in chamoy sauce, Pickled carrots with chamoy glaze
Equipment Needed
- Jar Opener (optional)
- Plate
- Spoon or Small Fork
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Open the jar without spilling the sauce
- Transfer the pickles without crushing them
Chef Tips from the Video
- Pair the chamoy pickles with fresh mango slices for a classic sweet‑spicy combo.
- Use the leftover chamoy sauce as a dip for grilled corn or as a glaze for shrimp.
Troubleshooting
The pickles are too salty.
Rinse the pickles briefly under cold water and pat dry before serving.
The chamoy sauce is too thick.
Stir in a splash of lime juice or water to thin it to your desired consistency.
Storage
Refrigerator: Keep the opened jar tightly sealed in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: Not recommended – freezing changes the texture of the pickles.
Room temperature: Store unopened jar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The pickles keep well refrigerated; you can portion them into small containers for grab‑and‑go snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of chamoy pickles in Mexican cuisine?
Chamoy pickles combine the traditional Mexican practice of pickling vegetables with the sweet‑spicy chamoy sauce, which originated from Chinese‑Mexican immigrants in the early 20th century. They are a popular street‑food snack enjoyed for their bold flavor contrast.
What are the traditional regional variations of chamoy pickles in Mexico?
In northern Mexico, larger cucumber or carrot sticks are common, while in central regions smaller jalapeño or radish pickles are favored. Some areas add tamarind pulp to the chamoy for extra tang.
How are chamoy pickles traditionally served in Mexican street markets?
Vendors typically serve them in small plastic cups, topped with a drizzle of extra chamoy, a sprinkle of chili powder, and a wedge of lime for added brightness.
During which Mexican celebrations are chamoy pickles especially popular?
Chamoy pickles are a favorite snack during festivals like Día de los Muertos and local fairs, where vendors set up stalls offering a variety of spicy‑sweet treats.
How does chamoy pickle fit into the broader Mexican snack tradition?
It exemplifies the Mexican love for balancing sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors in a single bite, similar to other snacks like mango con chile and elote con chamoy.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for chamoy sauce used on pickles versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic chamoy includes dried apricots, hibiscus, chili powder, lime juice, and sometimes soy sauce. Substitutes can use store‑bought chamoy sauce, or a blend of plum jam, chili flakes, and vinegar.
What other Mexican dishes pair well with chamoy pickles?
They pair beautifully with fresh fruit like mango or pineapple, grilled corn (elote), and even as a topping for tacos al pastor to add a tangy kick.
What common mistakes should I avoid when opening a jar of chamoy pickles?
Avoid using excessive force that can cause the lid to pop off and splash sauce. If the lid is stuck, run it under warm water or tap the edge gently with a spoon to loosen it.
Can I make chamoy pickles ahead of time and how should I store them?
Since the pickles are already pickled, you can simply keep the opened jar sealed in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Ensure the lid is tightly closed to maintain freshness.
What does the YouTube channel Spice King specialize in?
The YouTube channel Spice King focuses on bold, spicy snacks and street‑food discoveries, often highlighting unusual finds from convenience stores and markets with enthusiastic, late‑night taste tests.
Last updated: September 3, 2026
