Different Types of Indian Pickles
Many know that India is known for spices, and the history dates back centuries. But not many know that the country is also famous for pickles. However, Indian people call it by different names regionally, like loncha, kasundi, achar, uppinakayi, urugaai, athanum, pachchadi, thokku, etc. However, the most popular one is ‘Achaar.’ This is one of the most important and must-have condiments at every Indian household. Surprisingly, 99.9% of Indians love achaar and will have at least two to three types available in their homes all year.
About Indian Pickles and Different Types of Indian Pickles
People generally use pickles to add or enhance the flavor of main dishes like rice or curries. It is usually made of vegetables or fruits using custom recipes and pickling methods. Each region in the country follows special pickling methods that their ancestors taught, and it is still being carried from generation to generation without losing their unique flavors and tastes. Some also use meat or fish for pickling, which are non-vegetarian pickles.
Top 10 picks from the leading Chef in India
1. Mango achaar
This pickle is made of mangoes of different varieties like Malda, Totapuri, Banganapalli, etc. This mango pickle has a tangy and sweet taste and flavor, owing to the usage of raw mangoes. Moreover, this pickle is the perfect pair for curd rice, the best main course pair for any achaar.
2. Amla achaar
Amla or gooseberry is rich in nutrients, and pickling it is one of the best ways to store this fresh fruit. Though it is combined with a variety of spices like mustard, fenugreek, etc., the bitter taste of amla gets retained, and you can feel it at every bite of the achaar.
3. Green chilli achaar
Of course, this green chilli pickle is quite spicy when compared to other vegetable or fruit pickles. However, when combined with a perfect pair of dishes, the flavors can be extraordinarily earthy and fiery.
4. Garlic achaar
This is also one of the most celebrated and fond pickles in the country, next to mango and amla, because it provides a burst of flavors like sweet, tangy, sour, and spicy.
5. Lime achaar
Made of cut limes, mustard, fenugreek, and red chillis, this pickle is definitely a timeless classic achaar with strong lemony and savory flavors. Indeed, lime pickle is a must-try choice for beginners.
6. Cucumber achaar
These pickles are more famous in Western countries than in India. Almost every American household will have cucumber achaar at their home because they believe this fermented pickle is a good source of Vitamin K with no fat or calories.
7. Sweet lime achaar
Like cucumber pickles, these sweet lime pickles are also renowned in Western countries. This sweet lime pickle made of sweet lime and other pickling spices gives a mix of sweet and sour tastes. Moreover, this achaar is a good source of antioxidants and Vitamin C and stimulates digestive juices in the body.
8. Ginger achaar
This achaar is made of ginger roots, jaggery (sugar), and regular pickle spices like mustard and fenugreek. It is low in pH and rich in gut-friendly microbes, helping with easy digestion and overall improvement in gut health.
9. Mixed achaar
Unlike the other pickles we have seen till now, this is not a regular pickle made of a single fruit or vegetable. Instead, this mixed pickle combines two or more fruits and/or vegetables like sweet lime, ginger, garlic, cucumber, tomato, green chilli, amla, etc. It is an extreme mix of spicy, sour, and tangy flavors.
10. Onion achaar
Red onions are more well-known for pickling than other onions. When correctly brined and pickled, they become the tastiest pickles in the world. They are rich in antioxidants, probiotics, Vitamin C, and K. Another must-try achaar!
