Looking for the best Indian pickles? Check out our list of 10 types of delicious and healthy achaar with recipes, benefits, and more!
Pickles, also known as achaar in India, has been a part of Indian cuisine for centuries. These tangy, spicy, and flavorful condiments are not only delicious but also offer several health benefits. From mango and lemon to garlic and ginger, Indian pickles come in a variety of flavors and are often homemade using family recipes that have been passed down for generations. In this article, we will discuss the 10 best Indian pickles, their recipes, and the benefits of including them in your diet.
Table of Contents
Not Just a Tangy Treat: Benefits of Achaar
Apart from being a delicious addition to your meals, pickles also have several health benefits:
- Pickles are a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins that boost immunity and fight infections.
- Some pickles like ginger and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body and may also have cholesterol-lowering effects.
- The fermentation process involved in making pickles promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, improving digestion and overall gut health.
- Pickles can be a low-calorie snack option for those trying to manage their weight or control their calorie intake.
- Consuming pickles may also help regulate blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes.
- Certain types of pickles, such as those made with vinegar, may help improve the absorption of important minerals like iron and calcium in the body.
- Pickles can add flavor and variety to meals, making them an enjoyable and tasty addition to any diet.
Including pickles in your diet in moderation can offer these benefits. However, it is essential to note that pickles are high in sodium and should be consumed in moderation by those with high blood pressure or other medical conditions. Let’s explore the 10 best Indian pickles that are sure to add some zing to your meals.
Taste the Tang with These 10 Best Indian Pickles
Mango Pickle
Mango pickle, also known as aam ka achar, is perhaps the most popular Indian pickle. Made with raw mangoes, this sweet and sour pickle is a perfect blend of flavors. The recipe for mango pickle involves slicing raw mangoes, mixing them with spices such as mustard seeds, fenugreek, and chili powder, and allowing them to ferment in the sun. Mango pickles can be stored for several months and can be eaten with a variety of dishes.
Lemon Pickle
Lemon pickle, or nimbu ka achaar, is another popular Indian pickle. Made with lemons, salt, and a variety of spices, this pickle is tangy and refreshing. The recipe for lemon pickle involves cutting lemons into small pieces, mixing them with spices, and allowing them to marinate in a jar for several days. Lemon pickles can be eaten with various types of rice, dal, or any other Indian dish.
Garlic Pickle
Garlic pickle, or lahsun ka achaar, is a spicy and pungent pickle that is loved by many. Made with garlic cloves, chili powder, mustard seeds, and other spices, this pickle is easy to make and can be stored for several weeks. Garlic pickle is believed to have several health benefits, including boosting immunity and aiding digestion.
Ginger Pickle
Ginger pickle, or adrak ka achaar, is another popular Indian pickle. Made with ginger, lemon juice, and a variety of spices, this pickle is tangy and spicy. The recipe for ginger pickle involves grating ginger, mixing it with lemon juice and spices, and allowing it to marinate in a jar for several days. Ginger pickle is believed to have several health benefits, including reducing inflammation and boosting immunity.
Carrot Pickle
A carrot pickle, or gajar ka achaar, is a delicious and healthy pickle that is made with carrots, mustard seeds, and other spices. The recipe for carrot pickle involves slicing carrots into thin strips, mixing them with spices, and allowing them to marinate in a jar for several days. Carrot pickle is rich in antioxidants and is believed to have several health benefits, including promoting heart health and improving digestion.
Cauliflower Pickle
Cauliflower pickle, or gobi ka achaar, is a tangy and spicy pickle that is made with cauliflower florets, mustard oil, and a variety of spices. The recipe for cauliflower pickle involves boiling cauliflower florets, mixing them with spices and mustard oil, and allowing them to marinate in a jar for several days. Cauliflower pickle is a great source of fiber and is believed to have several health benefits, including promoting bone health and reducing inflammation.
A high fibre diet is associated with better gut health and a reduced risk of several illnesses. 9.75 grammes of fibre, which is 25% and 39% of the RDI for males and women, respectively, are present in just one ounce (28 grammes) of chia seeds.
Read More
Chilli Pickle
Chili pickle is a popular Indian pickle made with fresh green chilies, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, salt, and oil. The chilies are slit lengthwise and mixed with spices and oil to create a flavorful and spicy pickle. This pickle can be eaten with parathas, rice, or any Indian bread. It is also used as a condiment in many Indian dishes to add a spicy and tangy flavor.
Amla Pickle
Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is a rich source of Vitamin C and has many health benefits. Amla pickle is made by marinating the amla in a mixture of spices and oil for several days until the flavors are infused. This pickle has a tangy and sour taste and is commonly eaten with rice or roti. Amla pickle is believed to have many health benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, and aiding in weight loss.
Onion Pickle
An onion pickle is a sweet and sour pickle made with onions, vinegar, sugar, and spices. The onions are sliced thin, mixed with vinegar, sugar, and spices, and allowed to marinate for several hours or overnight. This pickle is commonly eaten with rice or as a condiment with Indian dishes. It has a tangy and slightly sweet taste that complements spicy Indian dishes.
Mixed Vegetable Pickle
Mixed vegetable pickle is made by combining different vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, and green beans with spices and oil. This pickle is known for its crunchy texture and spicy taste. It can be eaten with rice, roti, or as a condiment with Indian dishes. Mixed vegetable pickle is a great way to add more vegetables to your diet and is a healthy alternative to store-bought pickles that are often high in sodium and preservatives.
Top Achaar Brands
Best Indian Pickle Brands and Manufacturers
| Name of Achaar Brand | Our Personal Favorite Achaar From Them | Link |
| Mother’s Recipe | Punjabi Mango Pickle | Shop Here |
| Dabur | Khatta Lime Pickle | Shop Here |
| MTR | Sliced Mango Pickle | Shop Here |
| Pachranga | Farm Fresh Mixed Pickle | Shop Here |
| Priya Foods | Garlic Pickle | Shop Here |
| Vellanki Foods | Ginger Pickle | Shop Here |
| SITARA | Green Chilli Pickle | Shop Here |
| Tops Gold | Mixed Pickle | Shop Here |
| Nilons | Premium Mixed Pickle | Shop Here |
| Eastern | Mango Pickle | Shop Here |
Choosing the Right Pickle For You: A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing the right pickle for you can be a challenge, there are just too many delicious options! If you’re looking to make your own pickles, here’s a run-down of our best Indian pickles based on prep time, shelf life, and pickling time to make it easier for you. Pro-tip: Don’t forget to store your pickles in a good quality air-tight container to avoid contamination!
| Type of Achaar | Key Ingredients | Benefits | Prep Time | Pickling Time | Shelf Life |
| Mango Pickle | Raw mango, salt, spices | Rich in antioxidants, aids digestion, enhances the taste of food | 20 min | 4-5 days | 6-12 months |
| Lemon Pickle | Lemon, salt, spices | Rich in vitamin C, aids digestion, boosts immunity | 20 min | 7 days | 6-12 months |
| Chilli Pickle | Green chillies, mustard, fenugreek seeds, vinegar | Rich in antioxidants, helps in weight loss, boosts metabolism | 15 min | 10 days | 6-12 months |
| Garlic Pickle | Garlic, mustard oil, red chilli powder | Boosts immunity, aids digestion, anti-inflammatory | 20 min | 10-15 days | 6-12 months |
| Mixed Vegetable Pickle | Carrots, cauliflower, turnip, radish, salt, vinegar | Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, aids digestion | 30 min | 1-2 weeks | 6-12 months |
| Ginger Pickle | Ginger, lemon juice, jaggery, vinegar | Relieves cold and cough, aids digestion, anti-inflammatory | 20 min | 1 week | 6-12 months |
| Tomato Pickle | Tomatoes, red chilli powder, mustard oil | Rich in vitamins and minerals boost immunity, enhances the taste of food | 20 min | 2-3 days | 6-12 months |
| Onion Pickle | Onions, vinegar, salt, red chilli powder | Rich in antioxidants, aids digestion, enhances the taste of food | 20 min | 2-3 days | 6-12 months |
| Carrot Pickle | Carrots, vinegar, mustard seeds, salt | Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, aids digestion | 20 min | 1 week | 6-12 months |
| Amla Pickle | Amla, salt, red chili powder | Rich in vitamin C, aids digestion, boosts immunity | 30 min | 1-2 weeks | 6-12 months |
Conclusion
Indian pickles (Achaar) are a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. With so many different varieties available, you are sure to find one that suits your taste buds. From the spicy and tangy mango pickle to the sweet and sour mixed vegetable pickle, there are endless options to choose from.
Not only do pickles add taste to your food, but they also come with several health benefits. They aid in digestion, improve immunity, and add good bacteria to the gut. So, next time you want to spice up your meal, reach for a jar of Indian pickles and enjoy the explosion of flavors it brings. Don’t forget to check out the table provided for an easy comparison of the different best Indian pickles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pickle is the tastiest?
Taste is subjective and varies from person to person. Different people have different preferences when it comes to the taste of pickles. Some popular and tasty Indian pickle options are mango pickle, lemon pickle, and mixed vegetable pickles.
Which pickle is best for health?
Pickles are generally high in sodium and should be consumed in moderation. However, some pickles made with healthy ingredients such as ginger, garlic, and turmeric can provide health benefits. Amla (Indian gooseberry) pickle is known for its high vitamin C content, while garlic pickle is believed to have immune-boosting properties.
Which city is famous for pickles?
Many cities in India are famous for their pickles. Some of the most famous pickle-producing regions are Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu. Hyderabad in Andhra Pradesh is particularly famous for its spicy and tangy pickles.
What are Indian pickles called?
In India, pickles are commonly called “achaar” or “pickle” in English. achaar is a traditional condiment made by preserving fruits, vegetables, or meats in salt, oil, and spices.
What is a pickle?
A pickle is a food that has been preserved in a solution of salt, vinegar, or brine. In India, pickles are made by preserving fruits, vegetables, or meats in salt, oil, and spices. Pickles are often used as a condiment or a side dish and can add flavor and spice to a dish.
Pretty! This has been a really wonderful post. Many thanks for providing these details.