Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata) is a type of edible flower that is popular in Indian cuisine. Kachnar achar, or pickled Kachnar, is a tasty and healthy condiment that is easy to make at home. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 500 grams Kachnar flowers, cleaned and chopped
• 1/2 cup mustard oil
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp fenugreek seeds
• 1/2 tsp nigella seeds
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup vinegar

Instructions:

1. Wash the Kachnar flowers thoroughly and chop them into small pieces.
2. Heat mustard oil in a pan until it reaches smoking point. Turn off the heat and let it cool.
3. In a separate pan, dry roast the cumin seeds, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and nigella seeds for a few seconds until fragrant.
4. Grind the roasted seeds to a coarse powder.
5. In a large bowl, mix the chopped Kachnar flowers, ground spices, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
6. Add the cooled mustard oil to the bowl and mix well.
7. Finally, add the vinegar and mix everything together.
8. Transfer the mixture to a sterilized jar and let it sit for at least 3-4 days before consuming.

Health benefits:

Kachnar flowers are rich in antioxidants and have several health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits of Kachnar achar:

1. Rich in antioxidants: Kachnar flowers are loaded with antioxidants that help to protect the body against free radical damage.
2. Good for digestion: Kachnar achar is a probiotic food that contains good bacteria that promote digestion and improve gut health.
3. Lowers cholesterol: Kachnar flowers contain compounds that help to lower cholesterol levels in the body.
4. Helps to control blood sugar: Kachnar flowers have anti-diabetic properties that help to regulate blood sugar levels.
5. Boosts immunity: Kachnar flowers contain vitamin C that helps to boost the immune system and prevent infections.

Enjoy your homemade Kachnar achar and reap its health benefits! Recipe mentioned above may vary here as it changes from one district to another district of Himachal Pradesh, but the taste will remain as we are using natural ingredients only!