Pickling is an age-old practice that was used to extend the shelf life of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Popularly known as 'Achaar', the technique of fermenting (pickling) fruits and vegetables first originated in the Indian subcontinent. Today, pickles are enjoyed all over the world, and they are an important part of all our meals. The delicious blend of sweet, salty, sour and spicy flavours is what makes these humble delights so treasured. But are pickles good for our health? The answer is yes. Pickles are made from fruits, vegetables, meat and spices that are power-packed with essential nutrients which support our digestive system when consumed in moderation.
Are All Pickles Healthy?
Pickles are considered a healthy side dish. Photo Credit: istock
Yes, pickles are healthy and have earned the title of 'superfood'. Since they are prepared using the process of fermentation, they are packed with health-benefiting properties like keeping our gut healthy. But most store-bought pickles are not fermented and use yeast, bacteria and other microbes to preserve foods. Moreover, some store-bought pickles often get their sharp zing from soaking fruits and be in a brine of vinegar and spices. Try a food store that sells fermented achaar or it's always better to make them yourself. Look for labels that say "naturally fermented."
If you prefer making achaar at home, then you have come to the right place. Here we have curated a list of the best Indian achaar recipes that will make your job easier in the kitchen.
Also Read: Onion Aachar, Gajar Achar And More: 5 Pickle Recipes That Are Delicious And Easy To Make
Here Are 7 Indian Pickles Recipes You Can't Afford To Miss:
1. Mango Pickle
Mango is a beloved summer fruit, and its pickle is even more popular. Mango pickle is one of the most famous Indian achaars due to its blend of sour, sweet, and spicy flavours. It's also a good source of fibre, vitamin K, and vitamin C. Adding mango pickle to your meals is an excellent way to get a variety of nutrients. Mango pickle pairs well with simple Indian dishes, such as dal-rice, rajma-rice, and paranthas. For the full recipe, click here.
Mango pickle is among the most loved Indian pickles. Photo Credit: istock
2. Lemon Pickle
If you have plenty of lemons, pickling them is an excellent idea. Lemons are juicy and taste heavenly when pickled with Indian spices like red chillies, fenugreek, and more. Lemon pickle is rich in vitamin B, which is essential for strengthening the immune system. For the full recipe, click here.
Also Read: Mango Pickle, Onion Pickle And More: 5 Instant Pickle Recipes You Must Try
3. Carrot Pickle
The winter season is the best time to prepare this pickle. Juicy red carrots make an excellent condiment when pickled with the right spices. Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is good for the eyes. Adding Gajar Ka Achaar to your meals will tantalize your taste buds and provide health benefits. For the full recipe, click here.
4. Indian Gooseberry Pickle (Amla Pickle)
Also known as Amla in Hindi, Indian gooseberries are a nutritional powerhouse. Although they may not be everyone's favourite due to their sour and bitter taste, pickling them is one of the easiest ways to consume them. Amla ka achaar is a natural immunity booster and is also beneficial for hair and skin health. For the full recipe, click here.
Amla is a good source of vitamin C. Photo Credit: istock
5. Garlic Pickle
Garlic is a popular ingredient that enhances the flavour of any dish. The rich aroma of roasted garlic is sure to get your mouth watering, and garlic pickle takes it to the next level. Garlic has antibacterial and antioxidant properties that help strengthen the immune system. A small amount of garlic pickle can help your body fight off the flu and the common cold. For the full recipe, click here.
6. Green Chilli Pickle
If you like spicy meals, this Hari Mirch Achaar will take your spice game to the next level. Green chillies have a short shelf life, and making green chilli pickles at home is a great way to use them up. Green chillies are a fantastic source of iron, and adding them to your meals can boost your body's iron levels. For the full recipe, click here.
7. Vegetable Pickle
Vegetable pickles are a great way to get a variety of nutrients. These include vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, lemons, mangoes, and more. Pickling seasonal vegetables in healthy spices results in a finger-licking pickle that can be paired with plain parathas to enhance the taste. For full recipe, click here.
Prepare vegetable pickle at home with your favourtie veggies. Photo Credit: istock
Note that one should consume pickle in limited quantity as it contains a high level of salt used for preservation.