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Pickles Pairing Guide:

What Goes Best with What?


Pickles have been an essential part of Indian cuisine for centuries. Whether you prefer them spicy, tangy, sweet, or bitter, pickles add an extra punch of flavor to any meal. But did you know that different types of pickles pair better with certain dishes?


At Chatakchara Foods Pvt. Ltd., we craft 100% vegetarian, chemical-free pickles using traditional recipes and natural ingredients. From the fiery red chilli thecha to the sweet and tangy dates pickle, each variety has a perfect pairing that enhances its taste and nutritional value.


In this blog, we’ll explore the best food pairings for different types of pickles, so you can enjoy them to the fullest!


1. Tomato Chutney: A Versatile All-Rounder


  • Best Paired With: Parathas, Idli, Dosa, Rice Dishes.

  • Why? Tomato chutney is a perfect balance of tangy, mildly spicy, and slightly sweet flavors. Its smooth texture and rich taste make it an excellent dip, spread, or side dish.


Perfect Pairings:

  • Stuffed Parathas – A spoonful of tomato chutney enhances the taste of aloo, paneer, or gobi parathas.

  • Idli & Dosa – Replace coconut chutney with tomato chutney for a south Indian twist.

  • Steamed Rice & Ghee – Mix with hot rice and a little ghee for a quick, flavorful meal.


Plate with folded flatbreads and orange chutney in a bowl with a pink-handled spoon. White plate has purple flowers. Checkered cloth visible.

2. Jackfruit Pickle: A Meaty Delight for Vegetarians


  • Best Paired With: Dal-Chawal, Chapati, Millet Rotis.

  • Why? Jackfruit pickle has a unique texture and deep, earthy flavor. It’s a great option for those who love chunky, meaty pickles but prefer vegetarian choices.


Perfect Pairings:

  • Dal-Chawal (Lentils & Rice) – The rich, spiced flavors of jackfruit pickle add a delicious contrast to simple dal-rice meals.

  • Jowar & Bajra Rotis – A great match for rustic, traditional Indian breads.

  • Plain Yogurt & Rice – Enhances the taste and texture of this light, comforting dish.


3. Red Chilli Thecha: A Spicy Kick for Bold Flavors


  • Best Paired With: Bhakri, Thalipeeth, Vada Pav, Rice & Curd.

  • Why? Red chilli thecha is a fiery blend of spices and chillies, perfect for spice lovers. It adds an instant heat boost to any meal.


Perfect Pairings:

  • Bhakri (Maharashtrian Millet Flatbread) – The heat from the thecha balances the simple, earthy flavors of bhakri.

  • Vada Pav – Elevate your vada pav experience with an extra dollop of red chilli thecha!

  • Curd Rice – The cooling curd complements the spiciness of the thecha, creating a balanced flavor.


4. Dates Pickle (Made with Sugarcane Khand): A Sweet & Tangy Treat


  • Best Paired With: Biryani, Chaat, Roti, Cheese Platters

  • Why? This pickle offers a natural sweetness from sugarcane khand, making it a great alternative to sugary condiments.


Perfect Pairings:

  • Biryani & Pulao – The sweet-spicy combination balances the rich, aromatic flavors of biryani.

  • Chaat & Snacks – A spoonful of dates pickle can be used in chaat, samosas, or pakoras.

  • Cheese & Crackers – Adds an Indian twist to cheese platters with a mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors.




5. Bitter Gourd Pickle: A Healthy & Unique Pickle


  • Best Paired With: Khichdi, Dal-Chawal, Millet Rotis

  • Why? Bitter gourd pickle is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors with health benefits. The bitterness is balanced by spices, making it an acquired but addictive taste.


Perfect Pairings:

  • Moong Dal Khichdi – The mild flavors of khichdi go well with the slight bitterness and tang of the pickle.

  • Simple Dal-Chawal – Adds depth and a slightly tangy contrast to a simple meal.

  • Jowar & Bajra Rotis – Complements the rustic flavors of millet-based flatbreads.


6. Mango Garlic Chutney: A Bold & Tangy Fusion


  • Best Paired With: Thepla, Dhokla, Rice Dishes, Grilled Vegetables

  • Why? The tangy mango flavor combined with spicy garlic creates a flavor bomb that works well with a variety of foods.


Perfect Pairings:

  • Thepla & Roti – A classic Gujarati pairing, especially for travel or quick meals.

  • Dhokla & Khaman – A spoonful of mango garlic chutney enhances the taste of steamed snacks.

  • Grilled Vegetables & Stir-Fries – Adds a bold spicy-tangy flavor to roasted veggies.


Pro Tips for Enjoying Pickles the Right Way


  • Pair pickles with simple, mildly flavored dishes – This helps balance the flavors without overpowering the meal.

  • Use pickles as a dip or spread – Instead of ketchup or sauces, try tomato chutney or dates pickle on sandwiches or wraps.

  • Mix pickles into curries and dals – Adding a little mango garlic chutney or jackfruit pickle can elevate the taste.

  • Enjoy pickles in moderation – Since pickles are high in natural salts and spices, a small portion is enough to enhance your meal.


Final Thoughts


Pickles are a fantastic way to enhance the flavor of any meal, but the right pairing makes them even more enjoyable. Whether you love the fiery spice of red chilli thecha, the sweetness of dates pickle, or the bold flavors of jackfruit pickle, there’s a perfect dish to pair with every variety!


Explore the authentic taste of traditional pickles! Order your favorite Chatakchara Foods pickles today and experience the perfect food pairings!






🥕Pick your organic spirit veggie:

  • Carrot – Crunchy & reliable

  • Kale – Misunderstood genius

  • Avocado – Trendy & complex

  • Beetroot – Earthy rebel











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