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Atchara
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Atchara, Achara or Atsara, is a Philippine traditional condiment made from pickled unripe papaya. Normally this dish is often served as a side dish for any fried (chicken, pork and fish) or grilled foods such as pork barbecue.
The unripe or green papaya is shredded together with carrots, onions, bell peppers, pickles and mixed in vinegar, sugar and salt for preservation.
The mixture is placed in airtight bottle or jars where it will keep even without refrigeration. However, once opened, atchara is preferably stored in refrigeration to maintain its flavor.
Atchara Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh shredded or grated green papaya
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1/2 cup onion, sliced into thin long strip
- 1 head garlic, sliced into thin long strip
- 1 medium red bell pepper , sliced into long strip
- 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced into long strip
- 1 (1.5 ounce) box raisins (optional)
- 1 cup vinegar
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup rock salt
- Rub the shedded papaya with 1/4 cup salt in a large bowl.
- Drain the liquid from the papaya and rinse thoroughly.
- Place the papaya in the middle of a large piece of cheesecloth and squeeze to drain as much liquid from the papaya as possible.
- In a large bowl, combine papaya, carrots, onion, garlic, red and green pepper and raisins
- Transfer the papaya mixture to clean, dry jars with lids.
- In separated bowl, put and mix vinegar, water and sugar. Then stir until sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the vinegar mixture into the jars, making sure the vegetables are completely submerged in liquid.
- Allow the vegetables to marinate in the liquid at least 1 day before using.
- Store in refrigerator between uses.
- Share & Enjoy!
courtesy photo: pinoycook.info