Guide
What is achar? The Nepali pickle, explained
Achar (अचर) is the Nepali word for pickle, a preserve of fruit, vegetables, or meat cured in oil, salt, acid, and spices. It is one of the most loved side dishes in Nepal, served with dal bhat, roti, chiura, and snacks.
What makes Nepali achar different
Nepali achar is usually oil-based, not vinegar-based. The classic method uses mustard oil, turmeric, chili, and timur (Sichuan pepper), then lets the jar cure in the sun. That is why the flavour is deep, tangy, and gently numbing rather than sharp like a Western vinegar pickle.
Types of Nepali achar
- Fruit achar: mango, lemon, lapsi (hog plum), and pineapple.
- Vegetable achar: garlic, akabare chili, radish, cauliflower, and carrot.
- Fermented achar: gundruk and other fermented greens.
- Meat achar: chicken, buff, and fish pickle.
Is achar healthy?
Achar is a condiment, eaten in small spoonfuls alongside a meal. It brings flavour and some beneficial spices, but it is also high in oil and salt, so enjoy it in moderation. Fermented varieties like gundruk are traditionally valued for digestion.
How to buy achar online in Nepal
Ranjana Didi Ko Achar makes achar by hand in small batches in Sindhuli. Add jars to your cart and check out with your name, phone, and address. We call to confirm every order, deliver across Nepal, and you pay cash on delivery.
Frequently asked questions
What is achar?+
Achar (अचर) is the Nepali word for pickle: fruit, vegetables, or meat preserved in oil, salt, acid, and spices. In Nepal it is usually made with mustard oil, turmeric, chili, and timur, and eaten as a side with dal bhat, roti, or snacks.
Is achar the same as pickle?+
Yes and no. Achar is a type of pickle, but Nepali achar is distinct because it uses mustard oil, timur (Sichuan pepper), and a sun-curing method rather than vinegar. Western pickles are usually vinegar-based; Nepali achar is oil-based.
Is achar healthy?+
Achar is eaten in small amounts as a condiment. It contains oil and salt, so it is best enjoyed in moderation. Fermented achar such as gundruk may support digestion. If you are watching salt or oil, keep portions small.
How long does achar last?+
Oil-based achar kept in a cool, dry place with a clean, dry spoon lasts many months. Always keep the achar covered by its oil layer and press it down after each use.
How do I buy achar online in Nepal?+
Add jars to your cart on our website and check out with your name, phone, and address. We deliver across Nepal and you pay cash on delivery after a confirmation call.