Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups freshly grated coconut
- 1 head of garlic, peeled and minced
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon red chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
Special equipment needed:
- Mortar and pestle or spice grinder
- Non-reactive mixing bowl
- Airtight glass jar for storage
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a dry pan, toast the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds until fragrant. Grind them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
2. In a non-reactive mixing bowl, combine the grated coconut, minced garlic, ground spices, red chili flakes, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the coconut mixture and stir well to combine.
5. Transfer the achar to an airtight glass jar and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Store the achar in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Temperature:
N/A
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups of achar
Nutritional information:
Calories: 70
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 230mg
Sugar: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Freshly grated coconut can be substituted with unsweetened shredded coconut.
- Red chili flakes can be substituted with cayenne pepper or fresh chili peppers.
Variations:
- Add diced onions or sliced green onions for a different flavor and texture.
- Use different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar, for a different taste.
- Add chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro or mint, for added freshness.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a non-reactive mixing bowl to prevent the vinegar from reacting with metal or plastic.
- Let the achar sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the achar as a condiment with rice, curry, or grilled meats.
Storage instructions:
Store the achar in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
N/A
Presentation ideas:
Serve the achar in a small bowl or ramekin alongside your main dish.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro or mint.
Pairings:
Serve the achar with rice, curry, or grilled meats.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the achar with steamed or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the achar is too dry, add more vinegar or water to the mixture.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use a clean and dry spoon when serving the achar to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Achar is a type of pickled condiment that is popular in South Asian cuisine.
Flavor profiles:
The coconut garlic achar has a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the achar as a condiment alongside your main dish.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
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Occassion: N/A
Region: Indian