Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and grated
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Glass jars with lids
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine grated carrots, turmeric powder, mustard seeds, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and salt. Mix well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white vinegar, sugar, vegetable oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the carrot mixture and stir well to combine.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then stir in chopped cilantro.
5. Transfer the achar to glass jars and seal with lids.
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: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Room temperature for mixing the ingredients
- Medium heat for cooking the vinegar mixture
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of achar
- Serving size: 2 tablespoons
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 60
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Carrots can be substituted with daikon radish or turnips
- White vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar
- Sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with olive oil or coconut oil
Variations:
- Add sliced onions or sliced jalapenos for extra flavor and texture
- Use different spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, or cloves for a different flavor profile
- Add raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness
Tips and tricks:
- Use a food processor to grate the carrots quickly and easily
- Toast the spices in a dry skillet before adding them to the carrot mixture for extra flavor
- Use a funnel to transfer the achar to the glass jars for easy and mess-free storage
Storage instructions:
- Store the achar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
Reheating instructions:
- Serve the achar cold or at room temperature
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the achar in a small bowl as a condiment for Indian dishes
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapenos for a pop of color
Pairings:
- Serve with rice and dal for a complete Indian meal
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a flavorful side dish
Suggested side dishes:
- Cucumber raita
- Naan bread
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the achar is too spicy, add more sugar to balance out the heat
- If the achar is too sweet, add more vinegar to balance out the sweetness
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean and sterilized glass jars for storage
- Keep the achar refrigerated at all times to prevent spoilage
Food history:
- Achar is a traditional Indian condiment made with vegetables and spices
- It is often served with rice and dal or as a side dish for meat or fish
Flavor profiles:
- The turmeric adds a warm and earthy flavor to the achar
- The mustard seeds and cumin seeds add a nutty and slightly bitter flavor
- The vinegar and sugar balance out the spices with a sweet and tangy flavor
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the achar as a condiment for Indian dishes or as a side dish for grilled meats or fish
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Region: Indian