Hello Kawan Mastah! Acar is a popular dish in Indonesia, especially during special occasions such as weddings and other celebrations. This pickled dish is made from a variety of vegetables and spices, and is a delicious addition to any meal. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make acar, along with some helpful tips and FAQs. So let’s get started!
What is Acar?
Acar is a traditional Indonesian pickled dish that is typically made with a variety of vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots, and cabbage. The vegetables are marinated in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices, which gives them a sweet and sour flavor. Acar is often served as a side dish or condiment with other Indonesian dishes such as nasi goreng (fried rice) and sate (grilled skewers).
Ingredients
To make acar, you will need the following ingredients:
Vegetables |
Spices and Seasonings |
Other Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
Cucumbers (2) |
Garlic (4 cloves) |
Vinegar (1 cup) |
Carrots (2) |
Coriander seeds (1 tsp) |
Sugar (1/2 cup) |
Cabbage (1/2 head) |
Cumin seeds (1 tsp) |
Salt (1 tsp) |
Red onion (1) |
Bay leaves (2) |
Water (1 cup) |
Red chili peppers (2) |
White pepper (1/2 tsp) |
Oil (2 tbsp) |
Instructions
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make acar:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and cut the vegetables into thin slices. You can use a mandoline slicer to get even slices. Place the vegetables in a large bowl and sprinkle them with salt. Mix well and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess water.
FAQ
- What if I don’t have a mandoline slicer?
- Do I have to use the exact same vegetables?
- Can I skip the salting step?
No worries, you can simply use a sharp knife to slice the vegetables thinly.
No, you can use any vegetables you like such as green beans or bell peppers.
No, salting the vegetables is an important step to draw out excess water and ensure that the acar stays crunchy.
After 30 minutes, rinse the vegetables under cold water and drain well. Pat them dry with a paper towel and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Spice Paste
In a blender or food processor, blend together the garlic, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, white pepper, and red chili peppers until you get a smooth paste.
FAQ
- Can I use store-bought chili paste instead of fresh chili peppers?
- Can I use ground spices instead of whole seeds?
Yes, you can use store-bought chili paste if you prefer.
Yes, you can use ground spices if you don’t have whole seeds.
Step 3: Cook the Spice Paste
Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and bay leaves, and cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
FAQ
- What kind of oil should I use?
- What if the spice paste is too thick or dry?
You can use any neutral-flavored oil such as vegetable oil or canola oil.
You can add a little water to thin it out and prevent it from burning.
Step 4: Make the Pickling Solution
In a separate pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool.
FAQ
- Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?
- Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar if you prefer.
Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your liking.
Step 5: Combine and Marinate
Add the spice paste to the pickling solution and mix well. Pour the mixture over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight container and let marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving.
FAQ
- How long can I keep acar in the fridge?
- Can I add other spices or herbs to the pickling solution?
Acar can last for up to a week in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.
Yes, you can experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your acar.
Conclusion
Congratulations Kawan Mastah! You have successfully made your own acar. This delicious pickled dish is a perfect addition to any meal, and can be easily customized to your liking. We hope this guide has been helpful, and that you continue to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Happy cooking!