11 Essentials of a Classic Gujarati Thali Menu

9. Papad & Pickle (Accompaniments)

A crisp papad and a small spoon of achaar (pickle) often close the savory part of the thali. Papad brings a salty, brittle crunch that pairs well with chutney or a bite of soft dal. Pickles — mango, lime, or mixed vegetable — add concentrated salt, heat, and preserve seasonal harvests for months. Together they introduce sharp, concentrated flavors that awaken the palate before a sweet finish. Pickles are also cultural signifiers; family recipes for achar travel down generations and can be quite personal. In a North American setting, store-bought achar can stand in, but making a small batch at home when mangoes are ripe gives an authentic seasonal touch to your thali.