Atchara

Atchara (also be spelled achara or atsara) is a Filipino dish made of primarily pickled papaya. The word itself is probably an adaptation of the Indian word for pickle, Achaar.

This dish is often used as an accompaniment to fried or grilled foods such as pork barbecue but it may also be used as a side dish on its own. The primary ingredient is shredded green unripe papaya. Carrot slices, julienned ginger, bell pepper, onion and garlic make up the other vegetable ingredients. They are then mixed in a solution of vinegar, sugar and salt preserves. The mixture is placed in airtight jars where it will keep even without refrigeration. However, once opened, atchara is preferably stored in refrigeration to maintain its flavor.