Garlic Pickle Recipe _ Garlic Pickle In Vinegar _ Lahsan ka achar_Pickled Garlic
Garlic Pickle Recipe _ Garlic Pickle In Vinegar _ Lahsan ka achar_Pickled Garlic is a easy Indian recipe that serves 4. 5 calories per serving. Recipe by The Kitchen Story on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 35 min
Cost: $1.60 total, $0.40 per serving
Ingredients
- 250 g Garlic (peeled and sliced thinly)
- 240 ml White Distilled Vinegar (5% acidity, clear color)
- 240 ml Water (filtered)
- 1 tablespoon Salt (fine sea salt)
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar (regular white sugar)
Instructions
Prepare the Garlic
Remove all outer skins, trim the root ends, and slice the garlic cloves thinly. Rinse briefly and set aside.
Time: PT10M
Make the Brine
In a saucepan combine water, white vinegar, 1 tablespoon salt, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Stir until dissolved.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 100°C
Boil the Garlic in Brine
Bring the brine to a rolling boil, add the sliced garlic, and continue boiling for 5 minutes on high heat.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 100°C
Cool the Garlic and Brine
Turn off the heat, strain the garlic and liquid into separate containers, and let both cool to room temperature.
Time: PT30M
Sterilize the Jar
Wash the glass jar and lid with hot, soapy water, rinse well, and let dry completely. Optionally, sterilize in boiling water for 5 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Combine and Seal
Place the cooled garlic into the sterilized jar, pour the cooled brine over it, seal the jar airtight, label with the date, and refrigerate.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 5
- Protein
- 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates
- 1 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free
Allergens: Garlic
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of White Distilled Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar, Rice vinegar
- Instead of Salt: Kosher salt
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Honey, Maple syrup
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
- Fine Mesh Strainer (optional)
- Glass Jar with Lid
- Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Peeling and slicing garlic evenly
- Boiling the brine until fully dissolved
- Ensuring garlic stays fully submerged during boiling
- Sterilizing the storage jar
- Sealing the jar airtight before refrigeration
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use white distilled vinegar for a clear, clean flavor; avoid colored vinegars that tint the pickle.
- Add whole spices like mustard seeds, peppercorns, or red chili flakes for extra aroma if desired.
- A dry, clean spoon prevents contamination each time you serve the pickle.
Troubleshooting
Garlic becomes mushy after pickling.
Do not exceed the 5‑minute boil; cool the garlic quickly and keep the brine ratio high (equal parts water and vinegar).
Brine is too salty.
Reduce salt to ½ tablespoon or add an extra tablespoon of sugar to balance.
Mold appears on the surface.
Make sure the jar and lid are fully sterilized and completely dry before sealing; store only in the refrigerator.
Storage
Refrigerator: Keep sealed in the fridge for up to 6 months; best flavor after 1½ months.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture changes.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature; risk of spoilage.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The brine can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
- If you want a milder flavor, reduce the boiling time to 3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Lahsun Ka Achar in Indian cuisine?
Garlic pickle, or Lahsun Ka Achar, is a traditional Indian condiment that dates back centuries. It was originally made to preserve garlic through harsh winters and to add a pungent, tangy flavor to everyday meals, especially in North Indian households.
What are the traditional regional variations of Lahsun Ka Achar in Indian cuisine?
In Punjab, the pickle is often spiced with mustard seeds and red chili powder, while in Gujarat it may include fenugreek and a sweeter brine. Southern Indian versions sometimes add curry leaves and use coconut oil for a distinct aroma.
How is Lahsun Ka Achar traditionally served in Indian meals?
Lahsun Ka Achar is typically served as a side accompaniment with flatbreads like roti or paratha, alongside rice dishes, or added to chaats for an extra kick. It is also enjoyed with plain yogurt or buttermilk.
What occasions or celebrations is Lahsun Ka Achar traditionally associated with in Indian culture?
Garlic pickle is prepared during harvest festivals such as Baisakhi and is a staple on festive tables during Diwali and weddings, where it adds a sharp contrast to richer dishes.
What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for Lahsun Ka Achar versus acceptable substitutes?
The authentic ingredients are fresh garlic, white distilled vinegar, salt, and sugar. Substitutes like apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar can be used, but they change the flavor and color slightly. Traditional recipes rarely use processed garlic powders.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Lahsun Ka Achar at home?
Common errors include over‑boiling the garlic, which makes it mushy, using a brine that is too salty, and not sterilizing the jar, which can lead to mold. Follow the exact boiling time and ensure the jar is completely dry before sealing.
Why does this Lahsun Ka Achar recipe boil the garlic for only 5 minutes instead of longer?
A short 5‑minute boil softens the garlic enough to absorb the brine while preserving a slight crunch. Longer cooking would break down the cloves, resulting in a mushy texture and a less vibrant flavor.
Can I make Lahsun Ka Achar ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. After sealing the jar, refrigerate it for at least 1½ months to develop flavor. Keep it refrigerated at all times; it will stay good for up to 6 months when stored properly.
What texture and appearance should I look for when my Lahsun Ka Achar is ready?
The garlic should be translucent with a slight sheen from the brine, and the liquid should be clear and amber. The cloves should retain a firm bite, not be soggy or mushy.
What does the YouTube channel The Kitchen Story specialize in?
The Kitchen Story focuses on simple, home‑cooked Indian recipes that use everyday ingredients and minimal equipment, offering step‑by‑step tutorials for beginners and busy cooks.
How does the YouTube channel The Kitchen Story's approach to Indian cooking differ from other Indian cooking channels?
The Kitchen Story emphasizes quick, budget‑friendly dishes with clear visual instructions, avoiding overly complex techniques or hard‑to‑find spices, making Indian home cooking accessible to a global audience.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
