Pickles have always played a delicious role in Indian meals, offering bursts of flavor and nostalgia in every bite. Among the lesser-known but truly mouthwatering varieties is Kathal ka Achar, also known as jackfruit pickle. With its meaty texture and bold spices, this pickle is a hidden gem of traditional Indian kitchens.
Jackfruit, or kathal, is often used in savory curries, but when turned into a homemade pickle, it becomes a tangy, spicy treat you won’t forget. For those who love making pickles at home or want to try something new beyond the usual homemade mango achar or amla achar, this recipe is worth exploring.
In this blog, you’ll learn a step-by-step guide to preparing homemade Kathal ka Achar, tips to preserve it properly, and how to enjoy it with your everyday meals.
Why Choose Kathal (Jackfruit) for Pickling?
Jackfruit is a unique fruit with a neutral, fibrous texture that absorbs flavors wonderfully. When pickled with mustard oil, whole spices, and tangy agents like vinegar or lemon, it becomes:
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Hearty and satisfying
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Spicy and tangy
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Perfect for parathas, rice, or khichdi
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An exciting break from regular mango or lemon pickles
If you enjoy the depth of flavor in a homemade achar, this jackfruit version delivers big on taste and tradition.
Ingredients for Homemade Kathal Ka Achar
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients. Choose fresh, tender jackfruit for best results.
Main Ingredients:
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500g raw jackfruit (cleaned and cubed)
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4 tbsp mustard seeds (split or crushed)
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2 tbsp fennel seeds (saunf)
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1 tbsp fenugreek seeds (methi)
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1 tsp turmeric powder
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1 tbsp red chili powder
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1 tsp asafoetida (hing)
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Salt to taste
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250ml mustard oil
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Juice of 2 lemons or 2 tbsp vinegar
These are traditional, earthy ingredients you’ll also find in online best pickle options. But nothing beats homemade freshness!
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Kathal Ka Achar
Step 1: Prep the Jackfruit
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Apply oil to your hands and knife to avoid stickiness.
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Peel the jackfruit and cut it into small cubes.
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Boil the cubes in salted water for 7–10 minutes until just tender.
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Drain and dry them completely with a cloth. Moisture can spoil the pickle.
Step 2: Roast the Spices
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Lightly roast mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and fenugreek seeds.
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Crush them coarsely using a grinder or mortar-pestle.
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Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
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In a clean bowl, combine the jackfruit cubes, spices, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and hing.
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Add lemon juice or vinegar and mix well.
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Heat mustard oil until it reaches smoking point. Let it cool.
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Pour the oil over the jackfruit mix and stir thoroughly.
Step 4: Store the Pickle
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Transfer the mixture to a clean, dry glass jar.
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Keep the jar in sunlight for 3–5 days, shaking it once daily.
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After sun-curing, store it in a cool place. Your homemade kathal ka achar is ready to enjoy!
Storage Tips for Long-Lasting Freshness
To keep your jackfruit pickle fresh for months:
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Always use a dry spoon
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Store in an airtight glass container
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Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight after initial curing
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Add extra oil if needed to keep pieces submerged
These steps are followed by professionals too in online homemade achar production for shelf stability.
How to Enjoy Kathal Ka Achar
This spicy jackfruit pickle pairs well with:
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Paratha and curd
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Simple dal-chawal meals
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Khichdi and ghee
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Stuffed puris or wraps
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South Indian meals like curd rice
The texture is meaty and the flavor is bold—ideal for those who love intense, traditional pickles like homemade mango pickle or amla achar.
Variations You Can Try
Want to add your twist? Here are some regional variations:
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Punjabi Style: Add more mustard seeds and a touch of jaggery for balance
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Bihari Style: Use raw mustard paste and sun-drying for extra punch
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South Indian Style: Add curry leaves and sesame oil instead of mustard oil
You can even combine jackfruit with mango or amla to create a homemade mixed achar blend.
Benefits of Making It at Home
Making homemade achar has its own charm:
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No artificial preservatives
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Customizable spice level
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Uses quality ingredients
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Made with care and love
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Tastes better with time
If you usually buy online best pickle jars, you’ll appreciate the freshness and satisfaction of DIY preparation.
Can’t Make It? Order Online!
If you're short on time but still crave the taste, many trusted sellers now offer online homemade jackfruit pickle that tastes just like home.
Look for vendors that also offer:
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Homemade mango achar
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Homemade amla pickle
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Aam ka sukha achar
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Sweet mango chutney
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Khatti meethi chutneys
Always read reviews and check ingredients before placing your order to ensure quality.
Final Thoughts
Kathal ka Achar is a flavorful, spicy, and satisfying pickle that deserves more attention. Whether you’re new to making pickles or just looking to expand your collection beyond mango and lemon, this jackfruit pickle is a must-try.
It delivers a bold homemade taste, perfect for every Indian meal. With simple ingredients and a few days of sun, you can recreate the authentic flavor of traditional homemade achar right in your kitchen.
And if time doesn’t permit, the next best thing is to order from a trusted online best pickle store that offers jackfruit pickle made the traditional way.
So go ahead—make it at home or buy it fresh. Either way, spice up your meals with the delicious taste of homemade kathal ka achar!
