14 Traditional Kerala Sadya Recipes for Beginners

12. Pickles & Snacks (Mango Achar and Upperi/Banana Chips)

A Sadya always includes a crunchy or tangy snack: mango achar (pickle) and upperi (thinly sliced, fried banana chips) are common choices. Mango achar can be as simple as chopped raw mangoes tossed with salt, turmeric, chili, and oil — or elaborated with mustard seeds and vinegar depending on tradition. Upperi is a salty, crisp snack that provides crunch against soft curries. Both are typically served in small quantities on the leaf to add texture contrast. For North American cooks, a good-quality store-bought mango pickle and packaged banana chips are acceptable shortcuts if making them from scratch feels daunting. If making achar at home, ensure mango pieces are dry to avoid spoilage and use sterilized jars for storage. These items are small but essential: they punctuate bites and make the Sadya feel complete.