Tomato Aachar

Tomato Aachar Recipe - A Spicy and Tangy Indian Delight

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tomato Aachar is a popular Indian condiment made with tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices. This tangy and spicy pickle is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal.

History

Tomato Aachar has been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the northern regions of India, where tomatoes are abundant. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to the traditional dish.

Ingredients

4 cups of diced tomatoes
2 tbsp of roughly chopped garlic
1 tbsp of chopped fresh ginger
1 tsp of salt
2 tbsp of chopped green chili pepper
1 tsp of fenugreek seeds
3 tbsp of oil

How to prepare

In a skillet, heat the oil and add the fenugreek seeds. Once the seeds turn black, turn off the heat and add the green chilies. Stir for a few minutes and then add the tomatoes. Turn the heat back on and add the garlic, ginger, and salt. Let it cook for 30 minutes.

Variations

Add mustard seeds for a more pungent flavor.
Include curry leaves for a hint of bitterness.
Mix in some jaggery for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to suit your spice preference.

- Store the aachar in a clean, airtight container to preserve its freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tomato Aachar as a side dish with rice, roti, or naan. It also pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making delicious Tomato Aachar is to cook the tomatoes slowly over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fenugreek seeds, you can use mustard seeds as a substitute. You can also use dried red chili flakes instead of fresh chili peppers.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomato Aachar can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tomato Aachar in a small bowl garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. You can also drizzle some extra oil on top for a glossy finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Tomato Aachar pairs well with dishes like biryani, kebabs, and samosas. It also goes well with cheese and crackers.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Tomato Aachar in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it in a skillet over low heat before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tomato Aachar contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tomato Aachar contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Tomato Aachar contains approximately 7 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Tomato Aachar contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomato Aachar is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

Tomato Aachar may contain traces of mustard seeds and sesame seeds.

Summary

Tomato Aachar is a flavorful condiment that is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. It is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Tomato Aachar is a versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. With its tangy and spicy taste, it is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. I had always loved trying new dishes and experimenting with different flavors, and the idea of making my own tomato aachar seemed like a fun challenge. I had heard about this spicy and tangy condiment from a friend who had recently visited India, and I was eager to recreate it in my own kitchen.

I started by gathering all the ingredients I would need for the tomato aachar. Tomatoes, of course, were the star of the show, along with garlic, ginger, chili peppers, and a variety of spices like cumin, coriander, and mustard seeds. As I chopped and prepared the ingredients, the kitchen filled with the fragrant aromas of the spices, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride at my culinary skills.

I had learned how to cook from my own grandmother, who had passed down her recipes and techniques to me over the years. She had taught me the importance of using fresh and high-quality ingredients, as well as the art of balancing flavors and textures in a dish. I had always treasured those lessons, and I was excited to put them to use in making my own version of tomato aachar.

As I cooked the tomatoes and spices together in a hot pan, the mixture bubbled and sizzled, releasing a tantalizing scent that made my mouth water. I added a splash of vinegar and a pinch of sugar to balance out the heat and acidity of the dish, and then let it simmer on the stove until the tomatoes had softened and the flavors had melded together perfectly.

Finally, it was time to taste my creation. I scooped a spoonful of the tomato aachar onto a piece of warm naan bread and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – spicy, tangy, and full of depth and complexity. I knew I had hit the mark, and I couldn't wait to share my recipe with my friends and family.

I wrote down the ingredients and instructions for making the tomato aachar, carefully noting all the little tips and tricks that I had picked up along the way. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I would make again and again, tweaking and perfecting it each time.

Over the years, I continued to make my tomato aachar, each batch slightly different from the last as I experimented with new spices and flavor combinations. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who all raved about its delicious taste and begged me to make more. I was thrilled to see how much joy and satisfaction my cooking brought to others, and I knew that I had truly found my passion in the kitchen.

As I grew older, I started to think about passing down my recipes and cooking skills to the next generation. I wanted to ensure that the traditions and flavors of my family would live on, even after I was gone. So I began to teach my grandchildren how to make tomato aachar, just as my own grandmother had taught me all those years ago.

I watched with pride as my grandchildren chopped, stirred, and tasted their way through the recipe, their faces lighting up with excitement as they discovered the magic of creating something delicious from scratch. I knew that I had succeeded in passing down the love and joy of cooking to the next generation, and I felt a deep sense of satisfaction knowing that my legacy would live on through my recipes and the memories we had created together in the kitchen.

And so, as I look back on my life filled with love, laughter, and delicious food, I am grateful for the gift of cooking that has been passed down through the generations. I am proud to have learned how to make tomato aachar, a recipe that holds a special place in my heart and will always remind me of the joy of creating something truly special in my own kitchen.