Achar is one of India's most loved traditional accompaniments.
Known as pickle in English, Indian achar can be made from mangoes, chillies, garlic, ginger, lemon, jackfruit and many other ingredients.
But what exactly makes a pickle an achar, and how do you choose the right one?
This simple guide explains the basics of homemade Indian achar.
👉 Explore Khat Mitthi Homemade Pickles
What Is Achar?
Achar is a traditional Indian pickle preparation made by combining fruits or vegetables with spices, salt and often oil.
Different parts of India have developed their own versions, resulting in hundreds of flavour combinations and preparation styles.
Some are tangy, some spicy, some aromatic and some dominated by the natural flavour of the main ingredient.
The Main Types of Indian Achar
Mango Achar
Mango pickle is perhaps the most familiar Indian achar.
It is made using raw mangoes and a combination of traditional spices and seasoning.
Sukha Aam Achar
Sukha Aam is a dry-style mango pickle with a more concentrated mango and spice profile.
👉 Khat Mitthi Sukha Aam Ka Achar
Chilli Achar
Chilli pickles can be prepared using green or red chillies.
Bharwa Lal Mirch Achar is a popular example of stuffed red chilli pickle.
👉 Khat Mitthi Bharwa Lal Mirch Achar
Garlic Achar
Lahsun Ka Achar combines garlic with traditional Indian spices and seasoning.
Ginger Achar
Adrak Ka Achar offers the distinctive sharp and aromatic character of ginger.
Vegetable Achar
Indian pickle traditions also include vegetables such as jackfruit and Jimikand.
👉 Explore the complete Khat Mitthi pickle range
How Do You Choose an Indian Pickle?
Start with the flavour you enjoy.
Prefer tangy flavours?
Try mango or lemon-based pickles.
Enjoy chilli and spice?
Explore Bharwa Lal Mirch or Green Chilli Pickle.
Prefer strong savoury flavours?
Garlic and ginger pickles are worth exploring.
Want something different?
Try Kathal or Jimikand pickle.
What Goes Well With Achar?
Achar is incredibly versatile.
Try it with:
- Dal chawal
- Roti and sabzi
- Paratha
- Khichdi
- Puri
- Curd rice
- Stuffed paratha
Sometimes even a simple meal becomes more interesting with a small serving of pickle.
Achar and Indian Food Culture
Pickle is closely connected with Indian family food traditions.
Recipes have traditionally been adapted to local ingredients, seasonal produce and regional preferences. In many homes, pickle-making is associated with family gatherings and recipes remembered from parents and grandparents.
This cultural connection is one reason achar continues to hold such an important place in Indian kitchens.
Homemade Achar and Khat Mitthi
Khat Mitthi is inspired by the traditional flavours of Indian home cooking and the idea of bringing familiar regional tastes to modern households.
Its range includes traditional pickle varieties alongside Indian spices and masalas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between pickle and achar?
In the Indian context, achar is the traditional term commonly used for pickle. The words are often used interchangeably.
Which Indian achar is most popular?
Aam Ka Achar is among the most widely recognised Indian pickle varieties.
Which achar is best with paratha?
Mango, chilli and stuffed red chilli pickles are popular choices with paratha.
Which achar goes with dal chawal?
Mango pickle is a classic pairing with dal chawal, although chilli, garlic and other varieties can also work well.
What is the best homemade Indian pickle?
There is no single best pickle. It depends on your preferred flavour, spice level and meal pairing.
Where can I explore traditional Indian achar?
You can explore Khat Mitthi's range of traditional Indian pickles online.
👉 Shop Homemade Indian Pickles from Khat Mitthi
Final Thought
Achar is more than a pickle. It is a taste of Indian tradition, regional ingredients and generations of food memories.
From mango and chilli to garlic, ginger and traditional vegetable pickles, there is an Indian achar for almost every palate.
Khat Mitthi – Har Ghar Ka Asli Swaad. Where tradition meets taste.