No Indian meal feels complete without a little spoon of achar (pickle) on the side. Whether it’s mango pickle with dal-rice or lime pickle with paratha, Indian pickles add that extra burst of flavour that transforms a simple meal into something unforgettable.
But did you know there are many different types of Indian pickles — each with its own taste, texture, and best use?
Let’s explore the world of Indian pickles and help you choose the right one for your kitchen. And yes — you’ll find a wide range of authentic Indian pickles at IndoKiwi Grocers, your trusted Indian grocery store in New Zealand 🇳🇿🇮🇳.
🥭 1. Mango Pickle (Aam Ka Achar) – The Classic Favourite
Mango pickle is the most popular Indian pickle, loved across all regions.
🔹 Taste:
Spicy, tangy, slightly sour
Bold and flavourful
🔹 Made With:
Raw mango pieces
Mustard oil
Fenugreek seeds
Chilli powder
Salt & spices
🔹 Best With:
✔️ Dal & rice
✔️ Parathas
✔️ Curd rice
✔️ Thepla
💡 A small spoonful can elevate even the simplest meal.
🍋 2. Lime Pickle (Nimbu Achar) – Tangy & Zesty
Lime pickle offers a sharp, citrusy punch.
🔹 Taste:
Tangy
Slightly bitter (from peel)
Spicy
🔹 Best With:
✔️ Khichdi
✔️ Simple roti-sabzi
✔️ Travel meals
💡 The longer it matures, the deeper the flavour becomes.
🌶️ 3. Mixed Vegetable Pickle – Spicy & Crunchy
Made using carrots, cauliflower, green chillies, and other vegetables, this pickle adds texture and variety.
🔹 Taste:
Spicy
Crunchy
Complex
🔹 Best With:
✔️ Stuffed parathas
✔️ Pulao
✔️ Lunch boxes
💡 Perfect if you like bold flavours and variety in one jar.
🧄 4. Garlic Pickle – Rich & Aromatic
Garlic pickle is for those who enjoy strong, robust flavours.
🔹 Taste:
Intense
Slightly sweet & spicy
Very aromatic
🔹 Best With:
✔️ Curd rice
✔️ Dal fry
✔️ Ghee roti
💡 A favourite in South Indian households.
🌿 5. Sweet Pickles – Mild & Balanced
Some pickles (like sweet mango or sweet lime) are less spicy and slightly sugary.
🔹 Taste:
Sweet & tangy
Mild spice
🔹 Best With:
✔️ Kids’ meals
✔️ Thepla
✔️ Light snacks
💡 Great for those who prefer less heat.
🥘 Why Pickles Are So Important in Indian Cuisine
Indian pickles are not just condiments — they:
✔️ Enhance flavour instantly
✔️ Balance bland dishes
✔️ Add spice, tanginess, and texture
✔️ Stimulate appetite
Traditionally, pickles are made using oil, salt, and spices — which also help preserve them naturally.
🔍 Oil-Based vs Vinegar-Based Pickles
| Type | Flavor Profile | Shelf Life | Common In |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil-Based Pickle | Deep & spicy | Long | North India |
| Vinegar-Based | Tangy & sharp | Medium | Indo-Western style |
🛒 Buy Authentic Indian Pickles in New Zealand
At IndoKiwi Grocers, we stock a wide range of:
- Mango pickle
- Lime pickle
- Garlic pickle
- Mixed vegetable pickle
- Sweet pickles
From trusted Indian brands that deliver authentic taste.
📍 Visit us: 14 Cobham Court, Porirua
💻 Shop online: https://indokiwigrocery.store
✨ Because every Indian meal deserves the perfect achar on the side.