Eggplant Pickle (Achar)

Eggplant Pickle, or Achar, is a tangy, spicy, and savory condiment made by preserving eggplant pieces in a mixture of oil, vinegar or lemon juice, and a blend of aromatic spices. It is a staple in many South Asian and Southeast Asian cuisines, where it serves as a flavor-packed accompaniment to meals.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is generally high in fat due to the oil used for preservation and flavor, but it also provides dietary fiber and key minerals from the eggplant and spices. A typical serving contains roughly 100-150 calories.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	120 kcal
Protein	0.5 g
Carbs	4 g
Fat	11 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	1.5 g
Sodium	350 mg
Potassium	120 mg
Manganese	0.2 mg
Vitamin K	4 mcg
Iron	0.4 mg
Magnesium	10 mg
Vitamin B6	0.05 mg
Copper	0.06 mg
Folate	8 mcg

Per 2 tablespoons (30 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Achar is a beloved method of extending the shelf life of seasonal vegetables, and its unique flavor profile—often a balance of sour, spicy, and savory—can vary significantly by region and family recipe. Nutritionally, the spices used, such as turmeric and fenugreek, are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.