Tomato Achar

Tomato Achar Recipe from Nepal - Spicy and Tangy Tomato Pickle

Region / culture: Nepal | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tomato Achar is a spicy and tangy Nepali condiment made with roasted tomatoes, chili peppers, and a blend of aromatic spices. This flavorful dish is perfect for adding a kick to your meals and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a topping.

History

Tomato Achar has been a popular dish in Nepali cuisine for generations. It is often served alongside traditional meals to add a burst of flavor and heat. The combination of roasted tomatoes and spices creates a unique and delicious condiment that is loved by many.

Ingredients

4 large ripe tomatoes or 2 cups ripe cherry tomatoes
5 fresh hot red chili peppers, minced
1 tbsp garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, minced
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tbsp mustard seeds
1 tsp ground szechwan pepper (timur)
0.25 tsp asafetida powder
2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp mint leaves, chopped (optional)
1 tbsp cooking oil
salt

Garnish

1 tbsp oil
1 tsp fenugreek seeds
10 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 tbsp chopped cilantro

How to prepare

Roast the tomatoes in the oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until they are charred.
Remove the charred skin and place the flesh in a bowl.
Heat oil in a saucepan.
Add cumin and mustard seeds and fry for about 30 seconds.
Include chilies, garlic, ginger, timur, asafetida, lime juice, and salt. Stir for a minute.
In a blender, combine the roasted tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and mint (if using) with the spice mixture. Process until a smooth paste-like mixture is formed. It can be made chunkier if desired.
Transfer the mixture into a large bowl.
For garnish, heat one tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan. Add splitter fenugreek and cook until it turns dark.
Add slices of garlic and fry until they turn light brown.
Pour the garlic-oil mixture and chopped cilantro over the tomato mixture.
Mix well and refrigerate for at least two hours before serving.

Variations

Add diced onions or bell peppers for extra crunch.
Use different types of chili peppers for varying levels of heat.
Substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to roast the tomatoes until they are charred to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor.

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

- For a chunkier texture, pulse the mixture in the blender instead of blending it until smooth.

- Refrigerate the achar for at least two hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tomato Achar as a side dish with rice, dal, or curry. It can also be used as a topping for grilled meats or sandwiches.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the tomatoes adds a smoky flavor to the achar, while frying the spices enhances their aroma and taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh chili peppers, you can use dried chili flakes or chili powder instead. You can also substitute fresh mint leaves with dried mint.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomato Achar 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 Achar in a small bowl garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. You can also drizzle some extra oil on top for a glossy finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Tomato Achar pairs well with traditional Nepali dishes such as momos, sel roti, and aloo tama bodi. It also complements grilled meats, sandwiches, and salads.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Tomato Achar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tomato Achar contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

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

Fats

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

Proteins

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

Vitamins and minerals

Tomato Achar is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and antioxidants from the tomatoes and chili peppers.

Alergens

Tomato Achar may contain allergens such as mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds. Please check for any allergies before consuming.

Summary

Tomato Achar is a flavorful condiment that is low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a good source of healthy fats and vitamins.

Summary

Tomato Achar is a delicious and versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. With its blend of roasted tomatoes, spices, and herbs, it is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy this tangy and spicy dish with your favorite dishes for a taste of Nepal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was during a trip to Nepal, where I had the pleasure of staying with a local family in a small village nestled in the Himalayas. The matriarch of the family, a sweet elderly lady named Sita, invited me into her kitchen one day as she prepared a traditional meal for her family.

As I watched her chop tomatoes, onions, and garlic with precision and care, I could sense the love and dedication she put into each step of the process. She explained to me that this dish, called Tomato Achar, was a staple in their household and was passed down through generations.

Sita graciously shared her recipe with me, detailing each ingredient and technique with patience and enthusiasm. She explained that the key to a delicious Tomato Achar lies in the balance of flavors - the sweetness of the tomatoes, the tanginess of the vinegar, and the heat of the chili peppers.

After spending the day with Sita in her kitchen, learning the art of making Tomato Achar, I returned home with a newfound appreciation for traditional recipes and the stories behind them. I couldn't wait to recreate the dish in my own kitchen and share it with my family and friends.

Over the years, I have continued to make Tomato Achar, adding my own twists and variations to the recipe. I have shared it with countless people, each time recounting the story of how I learned to make it from Sita in Nepal.

The recipe has become a beloved favorite among my loved ones, who always request it when they come over for a meal. I take pride in knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that has been passed down through generations, connecting me to a faraway land and a kind-hearted woman who taught me the art of cooking with love and passion.

As I sit in my kitchen, preparing a fresh batch of Tomato Achar, I can't help but smile as the familiar aroma fills the room. It reminds me of the time I spent with Sita in her kitchen, bonding over our shared love for food and tradition.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from her, and I will always cherish the memories of that special time in Nepal. Tomato Achar will forever hold a special place in my heart, not just as a delicious dish, but as a reminder of the connections we can make through food and the stories we share.

And so, I continue to make Tomato Achar, passing on the recipe and the story behind it to anyone who is willing to listen. It is my way of honoring Sita, the woman who introduced me to this wonderful dish, and keeping her spirit alive in my kitchen for years to come.