Achard Pomme-Carotte (Mauritian Apple Carrot Achar)

The achar is a type of pickle that originates from India. It is very popular in Mauritius where achar is made with various vegetables and fruits. There are variations in the spice mixtures and methods used. This is my version of an apple carrot achar, with my preferred spice blend.

This Achard Pomme-Carotte is a delicious fruit-vegetable combination that makes a delightful side dish. It is wonderfully sweet, tart, spicy, and crunchy. I love how the pickled apple and carrot have retained their crunchiness. It goes very well with rice, grain, meat, fish, or vegetable dishes. It is also a great accompaniment for sandwiches and flatbreads.

Achard Pomme-Carotte

Makes about 1.5 L

Ingredients

500 g carrots, peeled and julienned

500 g Granny Smith apples, unpeeled, cored, and julienned

juice of 2 lemons

2 teaspoons coarse sea salt

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 teaspoons mustard seeds

2 teaspoons ground turmeric

4 small green chilies, chopped

3 garlic cloves, peeled, de-germed, and chopped

Method

In a large bowl, add the julienned carrots and apples. Add salt and lemon juice. Mix well. Cover the bowl.

In a dry wok or saucepan, under medium-low heat, add the oil and let it warm. Then, add the garlic, mustard seeds, turmeric, and chilies. Stir and cook until the mustard seeds start popping. Add the apple-carrot mixture. Mix well. Cook for a few minutes. Transfer the contents into a bowl.

Cover and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate.

The achar will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a week.

I would love your feedback. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment in the Comments Section below or reach out to me on Instagram: @thelittlekatora.