Elevate your meals with nepali achar tomato: a culinary adventure worth trying

Nepali achar is a traditional Nepali condiment that adds a tangy and spicy flavor to any meal. Among the various types of achar, tomato achar is a popular choice for its vibrant color, tangy taste, and versatility. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide to making the perfect Nepali achar tomato recipe, ensuring you create a flavorful and authentic dish.

Ingredients

• 1 kg ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup mustard oil
• 1/4 cup red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds
• 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and remove the stems. Chop them into small pieces and set them aside.

2. Heat the Oil: In a large pan or wok, heat the mustard oil over medium heat.

3. Roast the Spices: Add the fenugreek seeds, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds to the hot oil. Roast them for a few minutes until they become fragrant.

4. Add the Tomato: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook them for about 15-20 minutes, or until they become soft and mushy.

5. Add the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, turmeric powder, garlic paste, ginger paste, and salt. Mix well and cook for another 5-7 minutes.

6. Add Lemon Juice: Finally, add the lemon juice and give it a good stir. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the achar reaches your desired consistency.

7. Store: Allow the achar to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.

Tips for Making the Best Nepali Achar Tomato

• Use ripe tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes will give your achar the best flavor and texture.
• Roast the spices: Roasting the spices before adding them to the achar enhances their flavor and aroma.
• Adjust the spice level: The amount of chili powder you use can be adjusted to your liking. For a milder achar, use less chili powder.
• Cook until the tomatoes are soft: The tomatoes should be cooked until they are soft and mushy, but not burnt.
• Let the achar cool before storing: This will help preserve its flavor and prevent it from spoiling.

Variations

• Add other vegetables: You can add other vegetables to your achar, such as carrots, onions, or green peppers.
• Use different spices: Experiment with different spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
• Make it a pickle: To make a pickle, add 1/2 cup of vinegar to the achar before storing it.

Serving Suggestions

Nepali achar tomato can be served with a variety of dishes, including:

• Dal-Bhat: A traditional Nepali meal consisting of rice and lentils.
• Roti: A flatbread made from wheat flour.
• Momos: Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
• As a condiment: Add a spoonful of achar to any dish for an extra burst of flavor.

Health Benefits of Nepali Achar Tomato

• Rich in antioxidants: Tomatoes are a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals.
• Boosts digestion: The spices used in achar can help stimulate digestion and reduce gas.
• Anti-inflammatory: The turmeric in achar has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and swelling.

Beyond the Usual: Creative Uses for Nepali Achar Tomato

• As a marinade: Use achar tomato as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables.
• In a salad: Add a spoonful of achar tomato to your salad for a tangy and spicy kick.
• As a dip: Serve achar tomato with chips, crackers, or vegetables for a flavorful snack.

FAQ

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are not available. However, fresh tomatoes will give your achar a better flavor and texture.

2. How long can I store Nepali achar tomato?

Nepali achar tomato can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

3. Can I freeze Nepali achar tomato?

Yes, you can freeze Nepali achar tomato for up to 6 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.