Achara, or atsara, means pickled green papaya. Well, basically. Carrots, ginger, onions
and bell peppers are added to the papaya to turn it into achara. The pickling solution–a mixture
of vinegar, sugar and salt–preserves the papaya and the vegetables. In air-tight jars, achara
will keep even without refrigeration. After the jar has been opened, however, it is best to refrigerate
achara.