Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup tamarind pulp
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon red chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Airtight jar for storage
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine tamarind pulp, lemon juice, vegetable oil, sugar, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
2. In a saucepan, toast cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and mustard seeds until fragrant. Add red chili flakes and turmeric powder and toast for another 30 seconds.
3. Add the toasted spices to the tamarind mixture and whisk until well combined.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro.
5. Transfer the achar to an airtight jar and let it sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Temperature:
Room temperature
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups
Nutritional information:
Calories: 80
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 400mg
Sugar: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Tamarind pulp can be substituted with lime juice or vinegar.
- Lemon juice can be substituted with lime juice.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with any neutral oil.
- Cilantro can be substituted with parsley or mint.
Variations:
- Add diced mango or pineapple for a fruity twist.
- Add diced red onion for a bit of crunch.
- Add chopped green chilies for extra heat.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a non-reactive bowl when mixing the achar to prevent any metallic taste.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and salt to your liking.
- Store the achar in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Storage instructions:
Store the achar in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
The achar is meant to be served at room temperature and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the achar in a small bowl or ramekin as a condiment.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of cilantro or a slice of lemon.
Pairings:
Serve the achar with grilled meats, vegetables, or as a dipping sauce for samosas or pakoras.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the achar with basmati rice or naan bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the achar is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use clean utensils and containers when making and storing the achar.
Food history:
Achar is a popular condiment in South Asian cuisine and is made with a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Flavor profiles:
The tamarind and lemon give the achar a tangy and sour flavor, while the spices add warmth and depth.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the achar as a condiment or dipping sauce.
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Region: Indian