There is something magical about the burst of spice that achaar delivers to every meal. It is not just a seasoning - it is an emotion in a jar. Whether it is the vibrant warmth of garlic or the sharp tang of lemon, every type of achaar has its own story that changes even the simple meal to a flavourful experience. But who says that you have to wait weeks to get that perfect tang and burst of flavours? This is where instant achaars come into the picture. That is your shortcut to homemade goodness, which gets prepared quickly, bursting with freshness, flavours and packed with blends of spices that thrill your senses.
These instant achaars are the unsung heroes of Indian meals - saving bland lunches, completing parathas, and changing leftovers into lip-smacking treats. So, if your taste buds are looking for something bold and intense, it is time to open the pantry of the kitchen to make these instant achaars that vow to bring back the missing burst of spice in every bite.
Instant Raw Mango Achaar
When the sharp, tangy notes of raw mango meet a blend of various aromatic spices, this pickle, which gets prepared in just a few minutes, screams of nostalgia. Perfect for pairing with dal-chawal or parathas, it delivers a fiery, zesty punch that instantly awakens your palate.
How To Make:
Take 2 mangoes and chop them into cubes.
Mix 1 tablespoon of mustard seeds, 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds, and 2 tablespoons of red chilli powder.
Heat ¼ cup mustard oil till it starts to bubble, and then pour it over the mango mix.
Add some salt and toss it well.
Keep it for a rest for about 2 hours before enjoying it.
(Image credit: Freepik)
Instant Garlic Achaar
A vibrant, aromatic treat, this garlic pickle changes every meal to a bold affair of flavours. The zesty aroma and tangy notes pair perfectly with curd rice, daal chawal or the stuffed parathas.
How To Make:
Peel 1 cup of garlic cloves.
Roast them lightly in a dry pan until they turn golden.
Add 2 tablespoons of red chilli powder, 1 tablespoon of turmeric, and salt.
Now, heat 3 tablespoons of mustard oil with a little amount of hing.
Pour over garlic, mix well and keep it for rest for about 3 to 4 hours before consumption.
Also read: Cooking Tips: How To Make Gajar Ka Achaar At Home?
Instant Carrot And Chilli Achaar
Vibrant and crunchy, exploding with spices, this instant carrot and chilli pickle is also known as winter's best friend. It perfectly balances the taste of earthy carrots with intense green chillies to get that perfect zing alongside roti-sabzi or stuffed paratha.
How To Make:
Slice 1 cup carrots, ½ cup of green chillies.
Add 1 tablespoon of mustard seeds, ½ tablespoon of turmeric and 1 tablespoon of chilli powder.
Heat ¼ cup of mustard oil till it gets hot and smoky.
Pour this hot oil over veggies, add some salt and a little lemon juice to it.
Shake and serve after 2 hours to let the flavours absorb nicely.
(Image credit: Freepik)
Instant Lemon Achaar
When life gives you lemons, make the zesty miracle of it. Tangy, a little bitter, and lightly spiced, it perfectly complements khichdi, pulao, or even curd rice.
How To Make:
Take six lemons and cut them into small pieces.
Add one tablespoon of salt, 1 tablespoon turmeric, and 1 tablespoon chilli powder.
Heat 3 tablespoons of oil and add mustard seeds as well as some hing.
Pour this over the lemon and mix nicely.
Keep it for a rest for about 1 to 2 hours before enjoying it.
Instant Cucumber And Mustard Achaar
When cool cucumber meets with the tangy mustard, this refreshing but flavourful achaar is perfect for lunches and dinners. This pickle adds to the crunch, spice, and brightness to any Indian meal.
How To Make:
Slice two cucumbers into small pieces.
Add 2 tablespoons of mustard powder, ½ tablespoon turmeric, and 1 tablespoon salt.
In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of mustard oil with some hing.
Pour them over cucumbers and toss them well.
Keep them for cooling 30 minutes before serving.
(Image credit: Freepik)