18 Mango Achar Recipe South Africa Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 4, 2024
Mango achar is a popular South African dish that is known for its spicy and tangy flavor. It is a type of pickle made with ripe mangoes, spices, and oil. This delicious condiment is a staple in many South African households and is often enjoyed with meals as a side dish or used as a topping for sandwiches and burgers. In this article, we will explore the history of mango achar and provide you with a traditional recipe to try at home.
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Canola Oil, Curry Leaves, Minced
Bunny Chow is a popular street food in South Africa that originated in the Durban Indian community. It may sound like a dish for rabbits, but it is actually a delicious chicken curry served in a hollowed out bread loaf. The combination of aromatic spices and tender chicken is sure to make this a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
2of 20
Bobotie – Savory ground meat custard from South Africa
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Whole Milk, Large Eggs, White Bread
Bobotie is a traditional South African dish that combines the flavors of savory ground meat, raisins, and spices, topped with a custard-like mixture and baked to perfection. It is usually served with yellow rice and chutney, making for a hearty and comforting meal. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at a dinner party.
Main Ingredients: Mango, Red Apple, Sugar, Golden Raisins, Red Chili
This unique pickle recipe combines the flavors of mango and apple with traditional Kashmiri spices. The tangy and spicy flavors make it a perfect accompaniment to any Indian meal. Serve it alongside your favorite curry or as a topping for a burger or sandwich for a burst of flavor.
4of 20
Morning Detox Smoothie
Main Ingredients: Raspberries, Mango, Orange Juice, Kale, Ginger Root
Start your day off right with this refreshing and healthy smoothie. Packed with detoxifying ingredients like spinach, ginger, and lemon, this smoothie will give you the energy you need to tackle the day. The sweetness from the mango and banana makes it a delicious and nutritious way to start your morning.
5of 20
Rajasthani Aam ka Achar
Main Ingredients: Mango, Salt, Mustard Seeds, Fennel Seeds, Fenugreek
This Rajasthani-style mango pickle is a popular accompaniment to any Indian meal. The tangy and spicy flavors from the mustard oil and pickling spices will tantalize your taste buds. It can be made in large batches and stored for months, making it a convenient addition to your pantry.
6of 20
Mango Lassi
Main Ingredients: Plain Yogurt, Milk, Mango, Honey, Ground Cardamom, Ice
This traditional Indian drink is a creamy and refreshing blend of mango, yogurt, and spices. It is perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day or as a delicious accompaniment to a spicy meal. A touch of cardamom adds a unique and aromatic flavor to this classic drink.
7of 20
Kerala Mango Pickle ~ Kadumanga Achar
Main Ingredients: Oil, Mangoes, Fenugreek Seeds, Mustard Seeds
Kadumanga Achar is a popular pickle from the southern state of Kerala, made with raw mangoes, mustard seeds, and spices. The combination of tangy and spicy flavors makes it a perfect accompaniment to any South Indian meal. It can also be enjoyed as a condiment with sandwiches or as a topping for pizza.
8of 20
Kashmiri Mango Pickle/ aam ka achar
Main Ingredients: Mango, Red Chilli, Ginger, Salt, Sugar, White Vinegar
This Kashmiri-style mango pickle is a delicious blend of tangy and spicy flavors. The addition of fennel seeds and asafoetida give it a unique and aromatic taste. It is a must-try for pickle lovers and can be enjoyed with any Indian meal.
9of 20
Aam Aur Kabuli Chane Ka Achar
Main Ingredients: Mangoes, Chickpeas, Fenugreek Seeds, Fennel Seeds
This pickle recipe combines two of the most loved ingredients in Indian cuisine - mango and chickpeas. The tangy and spicy flavors of the pickle are complemented by the crunchiness of the chickpeas. It is a perfect accompaniment to any meal and can also be enjoyed as a snack on its own.
10of 20
Asian Spring Rolls
Main Ingredients: Creamy Peanut Butter, Water, Hoisin Sauce, Lime Juice
These crispy and flavorful spring rolls are filled with a delicious combination of chicken, vegetables, and mango. The sweet and tangy flavors of the mango add a unique twist to this classic Asian appetizer. Serve them with a spicy dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing dish.
11of 20
ISLAND PORK CHOPS
Main Ingredients: Light Soy Sauce, Sugar In The Raw, Toasted Sesame Oil
These Island-inspired pork chops are marinated in a flavorful mixture of mango, soy sauce, and spices. The sweet and tangy marinade infuses the meat with delicious flavors, making it tender and juicy. Grill or pan-fry the pork chops and serve with a side of rice for a taste of the tropics.
12of 20
Mango Mousse Cups
Main Ingredients: Gelatin Powder, Water, Mango, Granulated White Sugar
These elegant and delicious mango mousse cups are perfect for a special occasion or as a dessert to impress your guests. The creamy and airy mousse is made with fresh mango puree and topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with fresh mango slices for a stunning presentation.
13of 20
Mango Salsa
Main Ingredients: Mango, Red Onion, Jalapeno, Red Bell Pepper, Cilantro
This refreshing and colorful salsa is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. The combination of diced mango, tomatoes, onions, and jalapenos creates a delicious blend of sweet and spicy flavors. Serve it with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
14of 20
Kadumanga Achar – How to make Instant Mango Pickle
Main Ingredients: Mango, Black Mustard Seeds, Asafoetida, Fenugreek
If you're craving pickle but don't want to wait weeks for it to mature, this instant mango pickle recipe is for you. This pickle can be made in just a few hours and has all the tangy and spicy flavors of a traditional pickle. It is a quick and easy way to satisfy your pickle cravings.
15of 20
Energizing Green Smoothie
Main Ingredients: Cold Water, Nonfat Greek Yogurt, Green Grapes, Mango
This vibrant green smoothie is packed with nutritious ingredients like spinach, mango, and avocado. It is a great way to start your day or as a post-workout snack. The addition of chia seeds and almond milk makes it a filling and healthy option for any time of day.
16of 20
Best Mango Salsa!
Main Ingredients: Mangos, Red Bell Pepper, Diced Red Onion, Cilantro
This simple and fresh mango salsa recipe is a must-try for any salsa lover. The combination of diced mango, red onions, cilantro, and lime juice creates a burst of flavors and textures. It is a perfect topping for tacos, salads, or simply enjoyed with some tortilla chips.
17of 20
Tropical Mango Smoothie
Main Ingredients: Mango, Milk, Ice Cubes, Plain Yogurt, Honey
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this delicious mango smoothie. The combination of mango, pineapple, and coconut creates a creamy and flavorful blend that will make you feel like you're on vacation. Add some protein powder for an extra boost of nutrition.
18of 20
Aam Ka Achar / North Indian Mango Pickle in Mustard Oil
Main Ingredients: Mango, Mustard Seeds, Fenugreek Seeds, Ajwain, Jeera
This North Indian-style mango pickle is made with mustard oil and pickling spices. The bold and spicy flavors make it a great accompaniment to any Indian meal. It can also be enjoyed as a condiment with sandwiches or burgers for a unique twist.
19of 20
Mango Sorbet
Main Ingredients: Mangoes, Simple Syrup, Fresh Lime Juice, Lime Zest
This refreshing and tangy mango sorbet is the perfect treat for a hot summer day. Made with fresh mangoes, lime juice, and a touch of honey, it is a healthier alternative to ice cream. Serve it on its own or as a topping for a fruit salad for a light and delicious dessert.
20of 20
Ahi Poke Bowl
Main Ingredients: Sushi Grade Tuna, White Onion, Scallions, Reduced
This Hawaiian-inspired dish features marinated ahi tuna, rice, and a variety of toppings, including mango, avocado, and seaweed. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delicious and satisfying meal. It can also be customized with your favorite toppings for a personalized poke bowl experience.
The Origins of Mango Achar
Mango achar has its roots in the Indian subcontinent, where it is known as "achar" or "achaar." It was brought to South Africa by Indian immigrants in the late 19th century and has since become a beloved part of the country's cuisine. The word "achar" is derived from the Sanskrit word "āchāra," which means "custom" or "tradition." This reflects the fact that mango achar is a traditional dish that has been passed down through generations.
The Ingredients
The key ingredient in mango achar is, of course, ripe mangoes. The type of mango used can vary, but most recipes call for a variety that is slightly tart and firm, such as the Tommy Atkins or Kent mango. Other common ingredients include mustard seeds, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. The spices are typically dry roasted and ground to a fine powder, which is then mixed with oil and added to the mangoes.
The Preparation Process
Making mango achar is a labor of love that requires patience and attention to detail. The mangoes are first sliced into small pieces and then mixed with the spices and oil. The mixture is then left to marinate for a few days, allowing the flavors to infuse and the mangoes to soften. This pickling process also helps to preserve the mangoes for a longer period.
The Health Benefits
Apart from its delicious taste, mango achar also offers a range of health benefits. Mangoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and the spices used in the pickling process also have numerous health benefits. Mustard seeds, for example, are high in omega-3 fatty acids and may help to reduce inflammation. Turmeric, a staple in Indian cuisine, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Try This Traditional Mango Achar Recipe
Now that you know the history and key ingredients of mango achar, it's time to try making it at home. Here's a traditional recipe that is sure to impress your taste buds:
Ingredients:
- 5-6 ripe mangoes
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/4 cup oil
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the mangoes, then slice them into small pieces.
2. In a dry pan, roast the mustard, cumin, coriander, and fenugreek seeds until fragrant.
3. Grind the roasted spices into a fine powder.
4. In a separate pan, heat the oil and add the ground spices, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then add the mango slices and mix well.
6. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool.
7. Transfer the mango achar to a clean, dry jar and let it sit for 2-3 days before serving.
In conclusion, mango achar is a delicious and versatile condiment that has become a beloved part of South African cuisine. Its history, use of traditional ingredients, and numerous health benefits make it a must-try dish. So why not give this recipe a try and add a burst of flavor to your next meal?