Pachadi

Pachadi is a traditional South Indian dish that is a type of pickle and chutney. It is typically made with vegetables, yogurt, coconut, ginger and green or red chili. Pachadi is often served as a side dish and is a significant part of the Sadya, the traditional multi-course vegetarian meal of Kerala.

Ingredients and Preparation

The main ingredients of Pachadi include vegetables such as cucumber, bitter gourd, lady's finger, or fruits like pineapple and mango. These are cooked and then ground with coconut, green or red chilis, and ginger. The mixture is then combined with yogurt and seasoned with mustard seeds, red chilies, and curry leaves fried in coconut oil.

Variations

There are many variations of Pachadi across the different regions of South India. In Tamil Nadu, Pachadi is made with raw vegetables and is similar to raita, a side dish in North Indian cuisine. In Andhra Pradesh, Pachadi is more like a pickle and is made with vegetables or fruits, chili, mustard, and fenugreek seeds, and is often preserved for months.

Cultural Significance

Pachadi holds a significant place in festive meals and celebrations. During the festival of Vishu, a special type of Pachadi called Vishu Pachadi is prepared in Kerala. This dish is made with seasonal fruits and vegetables, and is a crucial part of the Vishu feast.

See Also

• Indian pickles
• South Indian cuisine
• Kerala cuisine
• Tamil Nadu cuisine
• Andhra cuisine