Have you ever come across a recipe that calls for mango powder? If not, you’re not alone.
This ingredient is relatively obscure, and some experienced cooks aren’t familiar with it.
Mango powder is made from dried mangoes ground into a fine powder.
It has a sweet, tangy flavor with hints of spice.
It’s often used in Indian cooking, but it can also be used in other cuisines.
However, despite its popularity and versatility, a couple of issues with using mango powder can make it worth considering substitutes.
For one thing, mango powder often contains added spices and preservatives to keep it shelf-stable.
This can be problematic for those with food allergies or sensitivities.
Hence, it’s worth considering some substitutes that can provide similar flavor without the added ingredients.
Continue reading to discover five excellent substitutes for mango powder.
These alternatives should give you the same sweet, tangy, and spicy notes as mango powder while keeping your recipes safe and healthy.
What is Mango Powder?

Mango powder, also known as amchur powder, is a popular spice made from dried green mangoes.
It has a sweet and tangy flavor used in Indian cooking to add a sour note to dishes.
The powder is also used in the making of pickles and chutneys.
Mango powder can be made at home by drying mango slices in the sun or a dehydrator.
The dried mangoes are then ground into a fine powder.
Store-bought mango powder is also available and can be found in Indian grocery stores.
Mango powder can be used in many different ways and adds a unique flavor to any dish.
Try adding it to curries, stews, rice dishes, or even desserts for a delicious flavor boost.
When cooking with mango powder, remember that a little goes a long way – it is a very strong spice.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Mango Powder
For those who are not familiar with mango powder, it is a key ingredient in many Indian dishes.
It is made from dried and unripe mangoes and has a sour, tangy flavor.
Mango powder can be difficult to find outside of India, but several substitutes can be used in its place.
1 – Tamarind

There is no substitute for the rich, tropical flavor of freshly-grated mango powder in Indian cuisine.
This aromatic spice has a distinctive tartness that perfectly complements savory dishes like dal and curries.
However, due to its sometimes hard-to-find nature and short shelf life, many chefs opt to use tamarind as a substitute for mango powder.
Tamarind is loaded with tangy acids and lending notes that are both sweet and tart, making it ideal for replicating the flavor of mango powder without losing any of the traditional kick or complexity of classic recipes.
Whether you’re cooking up a homemade vindaloo or seeking a creative twist on your classic chickpea dish, marinating with tamarind will help bring those unmistakable notes of mango powder straight home to your kitchen pantry.
So indulge in the delicious magic of authentic Indian cooking with just a pinch of this flavorful staple.
2 – Homemade Mango Powder

Homemade mango powder, or amchur, is a popular ingredient in Indian cooking.
Made from ripe mangos’ dry and finely ground skins, this tangy spice adds a sweet and sour flavor to dishes of all kinds.
While it is possible to purchase amchur online or at local spice shops, many cooks prefer to make their own.
Making homemade mango powder is simple: all you need are ripe mangos and a food processor or blender.
Cut up the mangos into small pieces, place them in your appliance of choice, then blend until they form a fine powder.
Mango powder can be used in curries, stews, and anything else you can think of.
No matter how you use it, this delicious spice is always sure to add an extra layer of flavor that will make your dishes simply unforgettable.
3 – Lemon Juice

Lemons are a versatile fruit that can be used in various ways.
The juice of lemons is a popular ingredient in many recipes, and it can also be used as a natural cleaning agent.
In addition, lemon juice has numerous health benefits.
For example, it is a good source of vitamin C and can help to boost the immune system.
Lemon juice can also help to aid digestion and promote healthy skin.
Finally, many people believe that drinking lemon juice can help to prevent colds and other illnesses.
Whether you’re using it in your cooking or drinking it for its health benefits, lemon juice is a great addition to any diet.
4 – Anardana Powder

Anardana powder is made from the dried seeds of the pomegranate fruit.
It has a slightly sour, fruity flavor and is used as a seasoning in Indian cuisine.
The powder can add flavor to curries, chutneys, and sauces, or it can be used as a rub for meats and vegetables.
Anardana powder can also make a refreshing drink known as anardana sherbet.
To make the sherbet, mix the powder with water and sugar to taste.
Anardana powder is readily available in Indian markets and online retailers.
5 – Loomi

Loomi powder is a spice made from dried black limes.
It is commonly used in Indian cooking and has a sour, tangy flavor.
Loomi powder can be used as a substitute for mango powder in recipes calling for a souring agent.
When substituting loomi powder for mango powder, use equal amounts of each spice.
Additionally, you may need to add more loomi powder to achieve the desired flavor, as it is not as strong as mango powder.
If you are looking for an alternative to mango powder that will still provide a sour taste, give loomi powder a try.
Conclusion
Mango powder is a beloved ingredient in many traditional Indian recipes.
It adds a distinctive sweetness and fruity flavor to dishes, and it can also be an important source of vitamin A and antioxidants.
Unfortunately, this versatile spice can be difficult to track down in many parts of the world, making it difficult for cooks to re-create their favorite Indian recipes at home.
However, several great substitutes provide similar benefits and help you keep your kitchen stocked with everything you need.
Some of the best substitutes for mango powder include tamarind, lemon juice, anardana powder, and loomi.
With these ingredients on hand, you can easily create delicious dishes that capture the rich flavors of India.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Mango Powder

Ingredients
- Tamarind
- Homemade Mango Powder
- Lemon Juice
- Anardana Powder
- Loomi
Instructions
- Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
- Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.