Tomato Achaar: Indian Taste Sensation

Multi-talented blogger Chitra Agrawaal of The ABCD's of Cooking is the real deal. Since 2009, she has been writing about, teaching and making Indian recipes for local markets and special pop-up dinner events in Brooklyn. She recently scored a book deal with Ten Speed Press.

In addition to presenting original vegetarian "Indian Recipes Grown in Brooklyn" on her popular blog, she recently launched the most savory small-batch condiment Brooklyn's seen in a while: Tomato Achaar.

In Chitra's words, "Achaar is an Indian relish made from local vegetables & fruits, spices and oil, basically India’s equivalent to Sriracha, harissa or kimchi." "Traditionally, it's eaten with rice, dal, curry or yogurt," but according to Chitra, "it's also great spread on sandwiches, served alongside grilled meats, or slathered on eggs."

We can attest that this unique condiment will become your "secret ingredient" in soups, stir-frys, and sauces. It's not so much the heat that sets Achaar apart. In fact it's just pleasantly warm, not fiery hot. What makes Achaar so enticing is the expertly blended Indian spices and the umami from the jammy tomato reduction.

And this is only the beginning, Chitra plans to roll out additional seasonal flavors including Garlic and Gooseberry in the coming months.