Pickles are a staple in every Indian household. From sweet to spicy, tangy to salty—each region has its own specialty. One of the most unique and delicious varieties is kathal ka achar, also known as jackfruit pickle. If you’re someone who loves rich, traditional Indian flavors, this is a must-try.
Jackfruit, or kathal, is a seasonal fruit often used in curries, but when pickled, it turns into a bold and flavorful side dish. Many people now look for online best pickle options, but nothing beats the taste of homemade achar. Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the complete process of making homemade kathal ka achar, share tips for storage, and suggest how to enjoy it with your meals.
Why Try Kathal Ka Achar?
Jackfruit pickle is a hidden gem in the world of Indian pickles. Here’s why people love it:
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It’s meaty and filling
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Absorbs spices deeply
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Pairs well with various Indian dishes
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Has a bold, spicy taste with a tangy finish
Unlike more common choices like homemade mango achar or amla pickle, kathal ka achar is a surprise treat with authentic regional flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious homemade pickle, start with the following ingredients. Choose a tender, raw jackfruit.
Main Ingredients:
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500 grams raw jackfruit (peeled and cubed)
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4 tablespoons mustard seeds (split or coarsely ground)
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2 tablespoons fennel seeds
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1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds
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1 teaspoon turmeric powder
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1 tablespoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
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1 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
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Salt as per taste
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250 ml mustard oil
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2 tablespoons vinegar or juice of 2 lemons
These ingredients are commonly used in homemade achar recipes and give the pickle its signature taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making kathal ka achar is simple if you follow the process correctly. Here are the easy steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Jackfruit
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Grease your hands and knife with oil before handling jackfruit to avoid the sticky sap.
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Cut the jackfruit into small cubes.
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Boil the pieces in salted water for 8–10 minutes until they are just soft.
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Drain and spread them on a cloth to dry completely. Moisture can spoil the pickle.
Step 2: Roast the Spices
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Dry roast the mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and fenugreek seeds on low heat.
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Once cool, coarsely grind them using a mortar-pestle or a grinder.
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These freshly ground spices will give your pickle a strong and aromatic flavor.
Step 3: Mix Everything
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In a large bowl, add the dried jackfruit pieces.
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Sprinkle turmeric, chili powder, hing, salt, and the roasted spice mix.
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Add vinegar or lemon juice and mix everything well.
Step 4: Add the Oil
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Heat mustard oil until it reaches its smoking point. Let it cool slightly.
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Pour the warm oil over the jackfruit-spice mix.
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Stir well so each piece is coated in the oil and spices.
Step 5: Store and Cure
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Transfer the mixture into a clean, dry glass jar.
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Keep it in sunlight for 3–5 days. Shake the jar daily.
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After sun-curing, store it in a cool, dry place.
Your homemade kathal ka achar is ready to enjoy after a few days of resting.
Tips for Storing Your Pickle
To make your pickle last longer and stay flavorful:
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Always use a dry spoon
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Ensure the jackfruit pieces are fully submerged in oil
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Use airtight glass jars only
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Keep it away from moisture and direct sunlight once cured
These tips are followed even by many online homemade achar sellers to keep pickles fresh during delivery.
Serving Ideas
Jackfruit pickle tastes great with:
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Plain rice and dal
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Stuffed parathas
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Khichdi and ghee
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Curd and roti
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Poori or wraps
It adds a spicy kick and boosts the flavor of even the simplest meal.
Variations You Can Try
You can modify the recipe according to your regional taste or dietary preferences:
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Punjabi Style: Add crushed garlic and more chili for extra heat
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Bihari Style: Use mustard paste instead of mustard seeds
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South Indian Style: Use sesame oil and add curry leaves for a distinct flavor
These variations are similar to what you’ll find in online best pickle collections from different regions.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought
Making pickle at home has its benefits:
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You control the spice level and ingredients
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No preservatives or artificial flavors
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Fresh and clean preparation
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Customizable taste
However, if you’re short on time, you can still enjoy the same taste by ordering from a trusted online homemade achar store.
Look for pickle sellers that also offer:
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Homemade mango achar
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Homemade amla achar
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Aam ka sukha achar
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Sweet mango chutney
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Khatti meethi aam ki chutney
These pickles are often made in small batches and delivered fresh.
Why Jackfruit Pickle Is Becoming Popular
Jackfruit is not just nutritious but also sustainable. As awareness grows, people are moving beyond common pickles and exploring unique ones like:
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Homemade mango pickle
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Jackfruit achar
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Dry mango pickle
The earthy texture of jackfruit makes it a favorite among those who want something different from the usual pickle options.
Final Thoughts
Kathal ka achar is a flavorful and satisfying addition to your pickle collection. With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can prepare a traditional, spicy, and long-lasting homemade achar that your family will love.
If you enjoy pickles with strong flavor and chunky texture, this one is perfect. And once you taste it, you might never go back to store-bought jars again—unless you find a trusted online best pickle source that offers fresh, authentic jackfruit pickle.
