In brief
- Vegetable achard is a condiment of shredded vegetables, sautéed then marinated in turmeric and vinegar
- Origin: India, via Réunion Island and Mauritius, also found in the Caribbean
- Key ingredients: cabbage, carrot, green beans, turmeric, ginger, garlic, chili pepper, vinegar
- A cold condiment, served alongside a cari, a rougail or grilled meats
Origins and cultural history of vegetable achard
The word “achard” comes from the Persian “achar”, which refers to vegetables or fruits preserved in vinegar or oil. The word and the technique travelled to India, then, through migration, to the Indian Ocean: vegetable achard is today a specialty of Réunion Island and Mauritius, prepared from vegetables marinated in a sauce of turmeric, ginger, garlic, chili pepper and vinegar.
The same technique of preserving with vinegar and spices is also found in the Caribbean, where Creole achard accompanies everyday meals as well as appetizer platters.
What are the key ingredients of vegetable achard
This recipe relies on seasonal vegetables and spices found in an African and Caribbean grocery store, including NKOSI.
- cabbage
- carrot
- green beans
- turmeric
- ginger
- garlic
- chili pepper
- vinegar
What to know about achard de légumes
Achard de légumes is a condiment of thinly sliced vegetables (cabbage, carrot, green beans), sautéed and then marinated with turmeric, ginger, garlic, chili and vinegar. Crunchy and tangy, it is served cold, in small amounts, with a curry, a rougail or grilled meats. Its name comes from the Persian "achar", and it is a specialty of La Réunion and Mauritius, also found in the Antilles.
Frequently asked questions about vegetable achard
What is a vegetable achard?
It is a condiment of shredded vegetables, blanched then sautéed with turmeric, ginger, garlic and chili pepper, before being finished with vinegar. Crunchy and tangy, it is served cold, in small amounts, alongside a main dish.
What is the origin of the word achard?
It comes from the Persian “achar”, which refers to vegetables or fruits preserved in vinegar or oil. The word travelled to India, then to the Indian Ocean through migration, giving rise to the Réunion and Mauritian achard.
Where to find the ingredients for vegetable achard in France?
NKOSI sells the turmeric, ground ginger, ground chili pepper, garlic paste and vinegar for this recipe on nkosiagro.com and ships them from the Paris area within 24 to 72 working hours, to mainland France (2 to 3 working days) and to ten European countries. The minimum order is 39 €: in France, delivery to a pickup point is then free, and home delivery is free from 69 €.
