Achara (Pickled Papaya)

Ingredients

• 1 papaya
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned
• 1 green bell pepper, julienned
• 1 medium carrot, julienned, could also be cut in decorative florets
• 5 shallots, sliced thinly crosswise
• 1 large garlic clove, sliced thinly crosswise
• 1 inch gingerroot, julienned
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper

Pickling Solution

• 1 cup vinegar
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. 1

   Peel the papaya and discard seeds. Shred using a vegetable grater or a cheese grater with bigger holes.

2. 2

   Put the shredded papaya in a bowl, sprinkle with the teaspoon of salt and toss. Let sit for 30 minutes to an hour, then squeeze by the handfuls, discarding the juice.

3. 3

   In a sauce pan - mix together the pickling solution and bring to boil stirring until sugar and salt are completely dissolved.

4. 4

   Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

5. 5

   Put everything in a bowl and pour the cooled pickling solution on top and mix well.

6. 6

   Refrigerate, covered or transfer into jars and let cure for a day or so before serving.

7. 7

   Enjoy!

8. 8

   *Prep time includes soaking and sitting the papaya with the salt.