Sinhala Pickle

Description

Tangy, Spicy & Traditionally Sri Lankan

A zesty blend of red onions, carrots, green chillies, papaw, and spices like turmeric, mustard, cinnamon, and ginger, all preserved in tangy vinegar. This Sinhala Pickle adds a punch of flavour and spice to any meal.

Sinhala Pickle (also known as Sinhala Achcharu) is a traditional Sri Lankan mixed vegetable pickle, known for its bold, tangy, sweet, and spicy flavour. Made with a variety of vegetables such as carrots, green beans, cauliflower, raw papaya, and green chillies, it is seasoned with mustard seeds, chilli powder, turmeric, and sugar, then preserved in vinegar.

This vibrant, crunchy condiment is a staple during Sri Lankan festivities like Sinhala and Tamil New Year, and is often served as a side with rice and curry or festive meals. The balance of sourness from vinegar, sweetness from sugar, and heat from spices makes Sinhala Pickle both refreshing and flavourful, with excellent shelf life when stored properly.

Made with fresh local ingredients
Balanced sweet, sour & spicy taste
Perfect accompaniment for rice and curry

🧂 Processing

The preparation begins by washing and slicing vegetables such as carrots, raw papaya, and green chillies into thin, uniform pieces. These may be lightly blanched and thoroughly dried to ensure the pickle lasts longer. In a separate pan, mustard seeds, garlic, ginger, curry leaves, tempered in oil until fragrant. The vegetables are then mixed with this tempered spice blend, along with chilli powder, turmeric, sugar, salt, and vinegar. Everything is combined well, allowing the vegetables to be evenly coated in the spicy, tangy mixture. The pickle is transferred into sterilised glass jars and left to marinate for at least a day or two, during which the flavours deepen and the vegetables absorb the seasoning. Once cured, the Sinhala pickle is ready to enjoy and can be stored for weeks.

🎨 Colour & Appearance

Sinhala Pickle has a vibrant and colourful appearance, featuring a mix of bright orange carrots and chillies, and yellow-tinted raw papaya. The vegetables are coated in a glossy, deep yellow to reddish-orange marinade, depending on the amount of turmeric and chilli powder used. Mustard seeds, curry leaves, and flecks of red chilli add extra texture and contrast. The pickle looks fresh, crunchy, and appetising, with a bold, festive appearance that reflects its strong, tangy-sweet-spicy flavour.

🍽 Food Applications

• Rice & Curry Accompaniment: Commonly served as a tangy, crunchy side with rice and curry meals.

• Festive Meals: A traditional addition to Sri Lankan New Year (Avurudu) and special occasion platters.

• Biryani & Fried Rice: Adds a bright, spicy contrast to rich rice dishes like biryani or yellow rice.

• Sandwiches & Wraps: Used as a zesty filling or topping in savoury sandwiches and wraps.

• Roti & Pittu Pairing: Complements starchy mains like roti, pittu, or string hoppers.

• Appetiser or Side: Served as a palate-refreshing starter or condiment with grilled or fried meats.

🧾 Ingredients

Red Onions, Pepper, Vinegar, Carrots, Green Chillies, Papaw, Tumeric, Mustard, Salt Cinnamon, Ginger, Garlic, Chilli Powder.

✅ Dietary Info

• Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly: Made entirely from plant-based ingredients.

• Gluten-Free: Naturally free from gluten-containing ingredients.

• Low in Calories: Mainly composed of vegetables and spices, making it a low-calorie condiment.

• Rich in Fibre: Provides dietary fibre from the assorted vegetables, aiding digestion.

• Contains Natural Sugars and Vinegar: Balances sweetness and acidity; suitable for moderate sugar intake.

• No Artificial Preservatives: Traditionally preserved using vinegar and natural spices.

• Spice Level: Mild to moderately spicy, adjustable according to preference.

🕒 Storage & Shelf Life

Store in a cool, dry place.  Refrigerate after opening. Best enjoyed within 2–3 months to retain freshness and flavour.

📦 Packaging

Packaged in glass bottles that seal in aroma and taste. Available in compact sizes for daily use and larger jars for culinary professionals. Wholesale options tailored for retailers.

Additional information