In an Indian kitchen, a meal is never truly complete without a spoonful of pickle on the side. From fiery and tangy to mildly sweet and aromatic, pickles add depth, character, and nostalgia to everyday food. Passed down through generations, these condiments are not just accompaniments but a celebration of regional flavors and traditional preservation methods.

Here are 10 must-try pickles that deserve a place in every Indian kitchen.


1. Mango Pickle (Aam Ka Achar)

The undisputed king of Indian pickles, mango pickle is a timeless favorite. Made from raw mangoes, mustard oil, and a robust blend of spices, it delivers a bold balance of sourness and heat. It pairs beautifully with dal-chawal, parathas, and even curd rice.


2. Lemon Pickle (Nimbu Ka Achar)

Bright, tangy, and packed with flavor, lemon pickle offers a refreshing contrast to rich Indian meals. Slowly matured with salt and spices, it develops a deep, complex taste that enhances simple dishes like khichdi or plain rotis.


3. Mixed Vegetable Pickle

A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables such as carrot, cauliflower, and turnip, mixed pickle brings variety to the table. Each bite offers a different texture and flavor, making it a versatile choice for daily meals.


4. Green Chilli Pickle

Green chilli pickle is the go-to choice for anyone who enjoys bold, fiery flavors. Sharp, spicy, and slightly tangy, it adds instant excitement to even the most basic meals. A small portion goes a long way, making it a powerful flavor booster.


5. Garlic Pickle (Lehsun Ka Achar)

Garlic pickle stands out for its rich aroma and deep, earthy taste. When slow-cooked and infused with spices, garlic transforms into a mildly sweet yet spicy delight that pairs wonderfully with rotis and stuffed parathas.


6. Amla Pickle (Indian Gooseberry)

Both delicious and nutritious, amla pickle is known for its immunity-boosting properties. Its tangy and slightly bitter notes are beautifully balanced with traditional spices, making it a healthy addition to everyday meals.


7. Red Chilli Pickle

Sun-dried red chillies stuffed or mixed with spices create a pickle that is intense, smoky, and deeply flavorful. Popular in many North Indian households, it adds bold character to curd, rice, or plain chapatis.


8. Sweet Mango Pickle (Meetha Aam Achar)

A delightful blend of sweetness and spice, this pickle is especially loved by children. Made with jaggery or sugar and mild spices, it pairs perfectly with parathas and makes an excellent contrast to spicy main dishes.


9. Ginger Pickle (Adrak Ka Achar)

Sharp and warming, ginger pickle is known for its digestive benefits. Its strong flavor complements heavy meals and works beautifully as a side with dal, rice, or South Indian dishes.


10. Carrot Pickle (Gajar Ka Achar)

Crunchy, mildly sweet, and tangy, carrot pickle offers a refreshing twist to traditional pickles. Often prepared during winter, it is light yet flavorful and pairs well with both Indian and fusion meals.



Why Pickles Are a Kitchen Essential

Pickles are more than just condiments. They preserve seasonal produce, add probiotic benefits when fermented naturally, and connect us to our culinary roots. A well-stocked pickle shelf ensures there’s always something special to elevate even the simplest meal.



Final Thoughts

Every Indian pickle tells a story—of tradition, regional flavors, and home-style cooking. Whether you prefer fiery, tangy, or sweet varieties, these 10 must-try pickles bring authenticity and richness to everyday dining. Stock your kitchen with these classics and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite.