It was a hot summer day and I had been eating a juicy mango for lunch when I started feeling itchy. A few hours later, my throat was so swollen I couldn’t speak.
It turned out that I was allergic to mangoes- who would have thought?
If you’re like me, you love the taste of mangoes. But maybe you’re allergic or they’re just hard to come by. Whatever your reason, it’s valid.
For me, I can’t eat fresh mangoes or mango powder. So, I have to look for alternative ways to get that delicious mango flavor.
Over the course of my life as a professional chef, I’ve tried different substitutes for mango powder.
That’s why, for you, I’ve put together the best substitutes for mango powder, their taste profiles, and how to use them.
Substitutes For Mango Powder:
- Tamarind powder
- Homemade mango powder.
- Lemon juice.
- Anardana powder.
- Loomi.
- Sumac.
- Chaat masala spice blend.
- Citric acid powder
- Tamarind paste
- Kokum fruit
- Lime juice
- Pineapple juice
- Tajin seasoning
- Fresh Pineapple
- Green mango puree
- Tomato puree
- Tomato powder
- Apple cider vinegar
- Yogurt
- Dried Pomegranate seeds
Tamarind powder
Tamarind powder is a common ingredient in Indian cuisine, and it can be used as a substitute for mango powder in any recipe.
It is made from the dried pulp of the tamarind fruit, which is native to India. After drying, the pulp is ground into a fine powder.
Tamarind powder has a sour, earthy, and tangy flavor that is similar to the fruity tanginess of mango powder.
Therefore, it can be used in place of mango powder, as a seasoning for fruits and vegetables. It is also good for curries, vegetables, lentils, meats, sauces, and chutneys.
Tamarind powder is high in fiber and antioxidants and has numerous health benefits. It can be substituted for mango powder in a 1:1 ratio. It’s also cheap and simple to use.
Homemade mango powder
If you’re not allergic to mangoes, like me and you have enough time on your hands, you can use this substitute. It is a cheaper and healthier option than the store-bought kind.
Homemade mango powder can be used in many different ways as a replacement. For example, it can be added to baking powder and for adding flavor to smoothies or oatmeal.
It can also be used as a natural sweetener. Just simply add it to your desired recipe in place of sugar.
Slicing unripe mangoes into thin strips and drying them under the sun or over a dehydrator is the easiest way to make your own mango powder. After they’re totally dry, grind them until they’re powdery.
However, this is a task that may take a few days to complete, but you can always start a few days before you’re going to need it.
Lemon juice
Mango powder is used as a souring agent in Indian cooking, and lemon juice can be used as a replacement in the same way.
It is also a good source of vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system.
Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for mango powder in the following ways; to add acidity to curries and other savory dishes, to make chutneys and other condiments, and to marinate and tenderize meats before cooking, and to make pickles and other preserves.
To get the most out of lemon juice, it is important to use fresh lemons and avoid processed juices.
When using it as a substitute, you only need a little; add a teaspoon of lemon juice for every tablespoon of mango powder required.
Keep in mind that cooking the lemon juice for too long takes the taste from sour to bitter. So add your lemon juice just before your food is ready.
You would mostly want to use this substitute in liquid-based recipes like curries, sauces, chutneys, and beverages.
Anardana powder
Anardana, also known as pomegranate powder, is a perfect substitute for mango powder.
It has a sour and tangy taste, making it ideal for use in curries and other dishes where mango powder would typically be used. They both have a similar acidic flavor that is sweet at the same time.
But Anardana is sweeter. It goes well with different meals and spices, including mint, fresh coriander, cumin spices, salads, and meat dishes. When substituting, replace every tablespoon of mango powder with half a tablespoon of Anardana powder.
Anardana powder is a good source of vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against free radicals. Substituting Anardana powder for mango powder is a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your diet.
Loomi
Loomi is a dried powder made from the black loomi fruit, which is native to India. To make it, Persian limes are boiled in salt water. Then dried and ground into a fine powder.
Loomi has a sour, salty flavor and can be used as a substitute for mango powder in recipes that call for it – both dry and liquid-based meals.
It can also be used in place of tamarind paste or lemon juice to add tartness to dishes, because of its citrus undertones. Try using it as a seasoning for chicken or fish, or add it to curries and stews for a pop of flavor. You can also pair it with vegetables too.
Loomi provides several health benefits due to its high content of Vitamin C, iron, and magnesium. It can also help to boost digestion and metabolism.
Sumac
Sumac is a versatile spice that can be used as a substitute for mango powder in many dishes.
It has a tangy, lemony flavor that pairs well with other spices, making it a great choice for curries and other savory dishes.
In addition, sumac is high in antioxidants and has numerous health benefits. It can be used in any dish where you would normally use mango powder, such as vegetable, meat or lentil-based meals.
Add it to your chutneys, sauces, and marinades. And you’ll love it.
When substituting sumac for mango powder, keep in mind that it is more potent, so you may need to adjust the amount you use depending on your taste preferences.
Chaat masala spice blend
Chaat masala is a spice blend that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It typically contains mango powder, along with other spices such as cumin, coriander, black pepper, and ginger.
This blend can be used as a replacement for mango powder in any recipe, especially because of its similar tart flavor
Chaat masala can be used to season vegetables, chicken, fish, and lentils. It is also a common ingredient in chaat, a popular Indian street food.
The exact ingredients in chaat masala vary depending on the region it is made in. But, you can easily find it in most Indian grocery stores.
So, if you’re looking for a mango powder substitute that is easy to find and has a salty, sweet, and spicy flavor, chaat masala is a great option.
Citric acid powder
This is a common ingredient in many household kitchens.
It can be used as a substitute for mango powder because it has a similar tart and acidic and highly concentrated flavor profile.
Citric acid is often used to add flavor or sourness to foods and beverages. It can also be used as a natural preservative.
It adds a completely sour flavor to your dishes and can also used to make pickles and other preserved fruits and vegetables.
It won’t give you a fruity flavor, so be sure it is the best substitute for the dish you are using it in.
Tamarind paste
Tamarind paste is made from tamarind fruit, which is native to tropical Africa.
The pulp of the fruit is used to make a variety of different products, including tamarind paste. To make it, the pulp is boiled and then strained to remove the seeds and skin. The final product is a thick, dark brown paste with a sweet and sour flavor.
Tamarind paste can be used as a replacement for mango powder because it has a similar tart and fruity flavor. It is commonly used in Indian and Thai cuisine to add flavor to curries, sauces, and marinades.
Add it to your Asian and Indian food like vegetable curries and seafood dishes and you’ll be floored by the result.
Take note that the paste may alter the consistency of your recipe, so I advise that you start with half a tablespoon of tamarind paste where you need one tablespoon of mango powder.
If you cannot find the tamarind paste, you can also use tamarind concentrate or tamarind syrup as a substitute.
Just be sure to adjust the amount you use, as these products are more concentrated than tamarind paste.
Kokum fruit
The kokum fruit is typically found in the Western Ghats of India and some parts of north-eastern India. It is usually used in Indian cuisine and has a sour and sweet flavor, with a fruity flavor, similar to that of mango powder.
This small fruit with a size akin to a cherry tomato is dried and then ground into a powder or made into a syrup. In dry form, you can soak it, extract the pulp and use what’s left as a mango powder substitute in your recipes.
A note of warning, it may leave a pinkish pigment in your food, so be careful in the application of it.
Apart from that, it can be an excellent mango powder substitute because it has a similar tart and fruity flavor. You can also apply it in the making of drinks like kokum sharbat and kokum juice.
If you cannot find kokum powder, you can also use kokum syrup as a substitute. kokum fruit can be used to make kokum syrup, which is added to curries, chutneys, stews, and sauces.
Lastly, kokum is good for digestive health; since it is known to relieve gastric problems.
Lime juice
Lime juice is a great substitute for mango powder because it has a similar sour and acidic flavor. It is also rich in vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system.
Lime juice can be used in place of mango powder to add flavor to curries, sauces, soups, and stews.
You can also use it to make a refreshing drink by adding lime juice to sparkling water or club soda.
If you want a sweeter drink, just add sugar or honey to taste. When substituting, be sure to adjust the amount you use to get the desired flavor. But as a rule of thumb, you only need to replace every tablespoon of mango powder with one teaspoon of lime juice.
Pineapple juice
Pineapple juice is another great substitute for mango powder because it has a similar tart and sweet flavor.
It can also add flavor to curries, sauces, soups, and stews. Pineapple juice has a tenderizing effect on meat, so it is often used as a marinade for chicken and pork.
Pineapple juice is sweeter than mango powder, so you may need to add less sugar or honey when using it as a replacement. Or use a 2:1 ratio to be safe.
Just make sure you adjust the amount you use to get the desired flavor and taste.
Tajin seasoning
Tajin is a Mexican seasoning that is made with chili peppers, lime, and salt. It has a similar sour and acidic flavor to mango powder.
Tajin can be used as a replacement for mango powder to add flavor to curries, sauces, soups, and stews. It is also great for adding flavor to fruits and vegetables.
When substituting, be sure to adjust the amount you use to get the desired flavor. Remember that it’s spicy so add only a tiny amount if you don’t like spicy food.
If you do, you may only need to replace every tablespoon of mango powder with one teaspoon of Tajin seasoning. And then, work your way upwards.
Fresh Pineapple
Pineapple can be used as a substitute for mango powder in many cases. It is a good source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, Vitamin C, manganese, and copper. And it contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps with digestion.
Pineapple is a natural sweetener, so it can be used to replace sugar in recipes. It can also be used to add sweetness and flavor to savory dishes – from baking to cooking.
To substitute pineapple for mango powder, use a 1:1 ratio. Pineapple can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It is a versatile fruit that has many health benefits. It can even help boost immunity.
Fresh pineapple is a great tenderizing agent, making it a great addition to meat dishes. If you want to replicate the same mango powder taste, use unripened pineapples. A slice of 15 grams will replace a tablespoon of dried mango powder.
Green mango puree
Green mango puree can also be used as a substitute for mango powder. It is made from unripened green mangoes and has a tart and sour flavor.
Green mango puree can be used to add flavor to your dishes. It even boasts of a richer flavor than that of mango powder.
When substituting, be sure to adjust the amount you use to get the desired flavor. For a start, you could use half a tablespoon of green mango puree for one tablespoon of mango powder.
Tomato puree
Tomato puree is another great substitute for mango powder. It has a natural sour taste with a bit of sweetness. It has a similar consistency, but tomato puree is thicker.
Tomato puree can be used in many dishes – from sauces to stews. It is also a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has many health benefits.
When substituting, be sure to adjust the amount you use to get the desired flavor. You could start by using half a tablespoon of tomato puree for one tablespoon of mango powder.
But be careful, tomato puree has such a dominant flavor that it could overwhelm the other ingredients in the dish.
Tomato powder
Akin to tomato puree, tomato powder can also be used as a substitute for mango powder. It is made from dried tomatoes and has a concentrated flavor.
You’re sure to get a strong taste of tomato from this alternative and so, like tomato puree, it is best used in small amounts.
When substituting, be sure to adjust the amount you use to get the desired flavor. You could start by using a half teaspoon of tomato powder for every tablespoon of mango powder.
Use this alternative in dishes that call for a strong tomato flavor like pizzas and pasta.
Apple cider vinegar
This common alternative for mango powder is nearly colorless and has a sour taste. It is made from the fermentation of apple cider.
Apple cider vinegar can be used to add flavor and tanginess to your dishes, including curries, sauces, and stews. It can also be used as a marinade for meats or in salad dressings.
Apple cider vinegar is a good source of acetic acid, which has many health benefits. It also has low cholesterol and increases the health of your heart.
When substituting, use half a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for every tablespoon of mango powder. You may need to adjust the amount depending on how sour you want your dish to be.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a common kitchen ingredient that can be used as a substitute for mango powder. While the two ingredients are not identical, yogurt can be used in many of the same applications.
It is a good substitute for mango powder because it has a similar texture and can add creaminess to a dish. In addition, yogurt is a source of healthy probiotics, calcium, proteins, and vitamin D.
When substituting yogurt for mango powder, it is important to use the correct ratio. For every 1 cup of mango powder, use 1/2 cup yogurt.
Yogurt can be used as a substitute for mango powder in smoothies, curries, soups, and baked goods.
It is important to note that yogurt will not provide the same flavor as mango powder, but it will still be a delicious and healthful addition to your dish.
It is already fermented, so it will not alter the taste of the dish. Yogurt is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. Try using it as a substitute for mango powder and see how it enhances the flavor of your favorite recipes.
Dry Pomegranate seeds
If you are looking for a replacement that is similar in texture and taste to mango powder, look no further than dry pomegranate seeds.
Pomegranate seeds can be ground into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or food processor. This makes it an ideal substitute.
When substituting, use the same amount of dry pomegranate powder as you would mango powder.
It can be used in many of the same applications as mango powder. They are a great addition to smoothies, yogurt bowls, and baking recipes. Also, use them in spice mixes and so on.
Pomegranate seeds are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
Try using dry pomegranate seeds as a substitute for mango powder and enjoy the nutritional benefits they have to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amchur powder the same as mango powder?
No, Amchur powder is not the same as mango powder. They are two different ingredients with different flavors and uses.
Mango powder is made from dried and powdered mangoes, while Amchur powder is made from dried and powdered unripe green mangoes.
Mango powder has a sweet and tangy flavor, while Amchur powder has a sour and tangy flavor.
Mango powder is used as a spice in Indian cooking, while Amchur powder is used as a souring agent.
Can I use mango juice as a substitute for mango powder?
Yes, mango juice can be used as a substitute for mango powder.
Mango juice will add sweetness and flavor to your dish. It is a good choice for smoothies, sauces, and marinades.
Can I make my own mango powder?
Yes, you can make your own mango powder at home. To do this, you will need dried mangoes and a food processor or coffee grinder.
Simply grind the dried mangoes into a fine powder and use it as needed.
What is mango powder used in?
Mango powder is used as a spice in Indian cooking. It is often used in curries, chutneys, and pickles.
It can also be used in baking recipes or to add flavor to smoothies and yogurt bowls.
How long does mango powder last?
Mango powder will last for up to two years when stored in a cool, dark place.
After that, it will begin to lose its flavor and color.
Finally
I hope this guide was helpful in understanding the different substitutes for mango powder.
Each ingredient has its own unique flavor and texture, so be sure to choose the right one for your dish. With a little trial and error, you’ll be able to find the perfect substitute for mango powder.
Thanks for reading!