Are you all set to celebrate Onam 2024? We don’t need to remind you to indulge in the extravagant Sadya – a spectacular affair comprising 26 (or even more) South Indian delicacies. The sumptuous feast comprising a wide range of vegetarian dishes is much loved in Kerala. This elaborate meal, served on a banana leaf, is a vibrant range of flavours, colours and textures, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of the region. Among the many dishes that make up the Sadya, Pachadi, a type of chutney or sauce, holds a special place. With its unique flavour and texture, Pachadi adds a delightful dimension to the Sadya experience.
Read this also: Onam 2024 dates, what is Sadhya and how the traditional festival benefits your health
What is Pachadi?
Pachadi is a South Indian condiment, often served as a side dish on special occasions such as Onam Sadya. Pachadis are usually made with a base of yogurt, coconut or tamarind, and a variety of spices, herbs and vegetables are added. The consistency can range from thick to smooth. They can be sweet, sour, spicy or a mix of all three. The versatility of pachadi allows them to be used as a complement to other dishes in the Sadya, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. It complements the other dishes in the Sadya and is an integral part of the festive experience.
Are you planning to make your own sadya this Onam? You just can’t miss out on pachadi. And for your delight, you can choose from a variety of pachadi flavours. Here we have listed some of the most popular pachadi recipes, which are perfect for Onam sadya.
Pachadi is a popular component of the sadya feast.
Photo Credit: iStock
Here Are 7 Pachadi Recipes For Onam Sadya 2024:
1. Pineapple Pachadi
Pineapple pachadi is a vibrant, tropical chutney that combines the tangy sweetness of pineapple with a rich spice blend. The pineapple chunks give it a plump texture, and the natural sweetness is beautifully balanced by a hint of sourness. Typically spiced with mustard seeds and curry leaves, this pachadi can be adjusted to taste by changing the number of green chillies. Its vibrant flavor profile makes it a refreshing complement to the other rich and varied dishes of the sadya. Click here for the recipe.
2. Ugadi Pachadi
Ugadi Pachadi is a traditional chutney that is especially popular during the Ugadi festival, but is equally loved during Onam Sadya. This Pachadi brings an interesting mix of flavours: the pungency of tamarind, the sourness of raw mango, the bitterness of neem leaves and the sweetness of jaggery. Each ingredient symbolises different aspects of life, making it not just a treat to taste but also a meaningful dish. Click here for the recipe.
3. Tomato Pachadi
Tomato Pachadi is a spicy and delicious side dish that uses ripe tomatoes as the main ingredient. This Pachadi has a blend of spices that enhance the natural acidity and sweetness of tomatoes. Made with mustard seeds, curry leaves and sometimes a touch of fenugreek, this Pachadi adds a tang and aroma to the Sadya. Click here for the recipe.
4. Alam Pachadi
Hailing from Andhra Pradesh, aalam pachadi is a spicy, ginger-based chutney that adds a tang to the sadya. Made primarily from fresh ginger, this pachadi is often spiced up with green chillies and tempered with mustard seeds and curry leaves. Its tangy, pungent flavour complements rice and other savoury dishes, making it a versatile addition to a feast. The strong flavour of ginger is the star. Click here for the recipe.
5. Beerakaya Pachadi
Birakaya Pachadi, or Ridge Gourd Chutney, is a staple in Andhra cuisine and an added element of nutrition in Onam Sadya. Made from Ridge Gourd, this Pachadi is seasoned with a mix of spices and sometimes even garlic. The resulting dish is mild, mildly spiced and goes well with both rice and roti. Click here for the recipe.
6. Mango Pachadi
Mango Pachadi is a delicious chutney made with raw mango and jaggery. Raw mango gives a tangy flavour, while jaggery adds a mild sweetness that balances the spiciness. This Pachadi is tempered with red chillies and mustard seeds, which further enhances its flavour. This Pachadi not only enhances the festive dish with its bright colour, but also offers a pleasant contrast to the other tasty and flavourful dishes of the Sadya. Click here for the recipe.
7. Andhra Gongura Pachadi
Andhra Gongura Pachadi, made from sorrel leaves (gongura), is a versatile condiment that can be used as a pickle or chutney. The sour and pungent taste of sorrel leaves is enhanced with a mix of spices and sometimes with chana dal and urad dal. This pachadi is a huge hit and is known for its distinct flavour and tangy flavor. Click here for the recipe.
Try any (or all) of these pachadi recipes and enjoy a nutritious Onam Sadya 2024!
