Dive into the world of Indian pickles! Explore 7 varieties bursting with flavors and love. Taste the tangy symphony!
India, a land of vibrant colours, diverse cultures, and of course, incredible flavours!
And no exploration of Indian cuisine is complete without diving headfirst into the tangy, spicy world of Indian pickles, or "achaar" as we lovingly call them.
These aren't your average dill pickles; they are a symphony of spices, carefully preserved vegetables and fruits, and a whole lot of love – a condiment that elevates any simple meal to a culinary experience.
So, ditch the boring and get ready to tantalise your taste buds with our pick of seven must-try Indian pickle varieties.
A popular and nostalgic Indian classic: Mango Pickle
Let's begin our flavourful journey with the classic Mango Pickle. This is perhaps the most popular and widely enjoyed pickle across India. Made with raw mangoes, mustard oil, and a blend of spices like fenugreek, turmeric, and chilli powder, it's a burst of summer in a jar.
The sourness of the mangoes is beautifully balanced by the fiery spices, creating a taste that is both addictive and nostalgic. Homes across India prepare it with great love, to be savored all year round. Its zesty tang makes just about any meal taste yummy and special.
You can have it with parathas, rice, dal, and even on a slice of toast for something new.
Lime pickle: tangy, citrusy condiment with bold flavor perfect for pairing with curd rice
Next, we have the Lime Pickle, a close cousin of the Mango Pickle but with its own distinct personality. The key ingredient here is, of course, limes, which are typically cut into small pieces and marinated in a similar blend of spices as the mango pickle.
Lime pickle boasts a sharp, citrusy flavour that is both refreshing and intensely flavourful. It's often spiced with asafoetida, which adds a unique savory element. It is a great option for those who enjoy a strong acidic kick.
Lime pickle tastes wonderful with curd rice or any dish where you crave extra tang. Making lime pickle is a way to keep summer's bounty available during other seasons.
Carrot pickle gaining popularity for its unique flavor and health benefits
Our third flavorful stop is the humble Carrot Pickle. Though, not as universally known as the mango kind, this lovely pickle is growing more and more popular. Grated carrots are mixed with mustard seeds, ginger, and chillies, then preserved in oil.
These pickles are slightly crunchy, sweet, and spicy all rolled into one. It's a welcome change from traditional tangy options and a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet. It is healthy in some ways because of the vegetable and is tasty with roti and many Indian breads.
It is also a nice side with some lentil-based dishes and is becoming known at more restaurants.
Fiery Chilli Pickle: a spicy adventure with a serious heat punch, best enjoyed cautiously
Now, let's talk about the fiery Chilli Pickle. For those who like some zing! This pickle is not for the faint of heart. Made with a variety of chillies, from the mild green chillies to the fiery red ones, it delivers a serious punch of heat, which sets it apart from the others.
The chillies are typically pickled whole or ground into a paste and combined with spices like mustard seeds, fenugreek, and turmeric. Chilli pickle demands deep respect. A tiny amount can transform a simple meal into a fiery adventure.
Best enjoyed with caution and, of course, a tall glass of water or yogurt on the side and is often made at home with local chillies.
Mixed Vegetable Pickle: Colorful medley of veggies in spicy marinade, great for any meal
Then we have the Mixed Vegetable Pickle, for those who like a mix of things. This pickle is a colourful medley of various veggies like cauliflower, carrots, green beans, and even lotus stem. The vegetables are often pickled together in a spicy and tangy marinade.
It's a delightful combination of textures and tastes. It makes a great addition to any meal where you want a little bit of everything. It's often made in winter, when you can get many different type of veggies. It is often made at home, each family with their own custom mixtures.
Ginger pickle: health benefits and flavorful addition to meals
Lastly, we have the Ginger Pickle, which holds a special place for health and taste . Ginger is known for its medicinal properties and its distinctive spicy flavour. This pickle is made with thinly sliced ginger that’s pickled in a mixture of lemon juice, spices, and a touch of sweetness.
It is often consumed as a digestive aid after meals. It offers a unique blend of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavours. It tastes amazing with rice, bread and also with simple dal and rice. This keeps you healthy and makes your food taste much better.
It's a gentle reminder of the many flavours that India has to offer, as well as the importance of ginger for well-being.
Explore 7 diverse Indian pickles for flavorful experiences
So there you have it – a tantalising tour of seven must-try Indian pickle varieties. Each one offers a unique flavour profile and regional twist, showcasing the incredible diversity of Indian cuisine.
So, next time you're looking to add a little spice to your life, grab a jar of your favorite achaars and get ready to pickle your taste buds!
