We love to eat achar along with our daily meals, right? Adding a spoonful of achar makes our dal-chawal, roti-sabzi or even simple paratha taste oh so delicious. It basically adds that extra spice to our palate and enhances our overall meal experience. Although we don’t talk much about this spice, it is one of the most common features of an Indian thali. If you explore, you will find that achar has its own unique versions all over India. Some like fresh achar, some ferment it or soak it in the sun for weeks. Some enjoy khatta-meetha achar while others enjoy it with added spice. We do not follow a strict recipe to prepare achar. Food experts say pickling is more of a tradition passed down from generation to generation. Therefore, you will find that the pickling process and the ingredients used differ from family to family.
(Read also: Achaar Ka ParathaNot paratha Of ahaar – Here’s how to make it to eat on the go)
One such popular achar is mirchi ka achar. Made with fresh green chillies and various other spices, mirchi ka achar is loved by everyone across India. It’s easy to make and helps brighten up the meal in no time. Given its popularity, we bring you some of our favorite versions of mirchi ka achar that will help add variety to your pickle collection. Then check out these recipes.
Here Are 5 Mirchi Ka Achar Recipes For You – NDTV Food Picks:
1. Thecha (Maharashtrian Mirchi Ka Achar):
Thecha is a fresh green chili pepper prepared by pounding mirchi and other spices in a mortar. Traditionally, a thecha recipe contains a sufficient amount of garlic, peanuts, mustard oil, jeera and salt. If you store it properly, you can also keep thecha for a week or two. All you need to do is transfer the thecha to a clean airtight container and keep it at room temperature. Click here for the recipe.
2. Stuffed Mirchi Ka Achar:
We’re sure you’ve tried that whole mirchi ka achar with masala in it. Now let’s see how we can make it. To make this pickle, we first need to find that pakode wale mirchi. Then cut the mirchi lengthwise, put the masala in it and let the pickle soak for 3-4 days before using it. Click here for the recipe.
(Also read: No more pickle? Make this instant Aam Ka Achar in just 10 minutes)
3. Mirchi Ka Khatta-Meetha Achar:
If you are someone who likes pickle with some sweetness, try this delicious sweet and sour version of green chili chutney. To make this recipe we need green pepper, gur, salt, vinegar and some basic spices like cumin and coriander. This dish is typically made in refined peanut or sesame oil. Click here for the recipe.
4. Street Style Green Chili:
Have you ever tried those freshly made green chili chutneys, served with paratha and kachori, at those street side stalls? If so, then you know how delicious it tastes. It’s simple, quick and makes for a perfect seasoning when you run out of achar between meals. We recommend keeping this pickle on hand for when you need it. Click here for the recipe.
5. Green Chili Sauce:
You might not think of it as a classic pickle; but trust us, it’s a perfect side dish to pair with all your fried dishes – samosa, pakora, bun and more. Green chili sauce adds the right amount of heat and flavor to those fried dishes, boosting the overall flavor profile. Click here for the recipe.
Now that you have our favorite green chili achar recipes on hand, we recommend making them one at a time at home and enjoying them. Don’t forget to let us know which of the above recipes you liked best!
