Sinhala Achcharu (Sri Lankan Pickle)


 


Sinhala Achcharu

                 (Sri Lankan Pickle)                   


        

                         Sinhala Achcharu, also known as Gaslabu or Papaya Achcharu, is an essential dish on the Sri Lankan New Year table. This beloved pickle is not only a staple for the Avurudu feast but also a popular accompaniment for special occasions. Its unique blend of flavors makes it an unforgettable part of Sri Lankan cuisine.
       
       So , let's learn how to make a traditional Sri Lankan pickle (Sinhala Achcharu) and also discover some valuable facts about it that you might not know.
Sinhala achcharu is a delicious dish that, when prepared correctly, can last for one to two weeks without spoiling. It has a unique blend of tangy and spicy flavors that excite our taste buds.  
         Additionally, the salty taste in achcharu is something our tongues are highly sensitive to. But what many people don’t realize is that achcharu also introduces another taste sensation—**umami**, often described as a savory flavor. This is one of the reasons why eating achcharu feels so satisfying and enjoyable!
 
Now, let's look at the health benefits of achcharu.  
Achcharu mainly contains Vitamin C. It also helps with protein digestion, making it easier for those who have digestive issues after consuming oily foods, especially during festive seasons. Since achcharu is a preserved food, it introduces beneficial bacteria into the digestive system, which can be good for gut health.  
            However, if you have gastritis, you should be a bit cautious when eating Sinhala achcharu. This is because it contains vinegar, which can increase stomach acidity.


Ingredients :

- 250g red onions  

- 2 carrots (cut into approximately 2-inch strips)  

- 15 green chilies (slit but not fully separated)  

- 1 small one unripe papaya.(cut into approximately 2-inch strips)  

- 1 cup vinegar  

- 1-2 tablespoons mustard powder  

- Salt (to taste)  

- A piece of ginger (about 2 inches long)  

- 1 bulb of garlic  

- A pinch of turmeric powder  


Directions

- First, combine mustard seeds, salt, ginger, garlic, and turmeric powder, mixing them thoroughly, and set aside.


- Next, pour vinegar into a clay pot and bring it to a boil.


- Then, add red onions, carrots, green chili peppers, and papaya strips separately into the boiling vinegar, blanching each for 30 seconds. 


- Now, add the previously prepared mustard and ginger mixture to the vinegar pan and cook well for about 2 minutes.  


- Then, remove the vinegar pan from the heat and mix in all the prepared vegetables thoroughly.  


- It can be stored in a well-dried glass bottle or a clay jar. 


- It is very important to use a clean utensil when making pickles. If a dry, clean jar is used, it can be stored for about 5 months.


- This dish is very flavorful and has a wonderful aroma.


🅔 🅝 🅙 🅞 🅨


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