Amchur [sometimes spelled Amchoor] powder is made from raw green mangoes that are cut and sun-dried. Amchur has a delicious honey-like fragrance and a sour fruity flavor. Amchur is used in many Indian dishes including fish, vegetables and curries. It has a warm, sour- sweet, slightly resinous aroma.
The mango tree is native to the India-Burma-Malaysia region of South Asia, and is one of the oldest cultivated fruits in the world. In India it has grown for over 4,000 years. European explorers spread the mango throughout the sub-tropical world in the 16-17th centuries, especially throughout Africa. The mango tree is a member of the family that includes the cashew and pistachio nut.
The tart flavor of amchur powder is used in Indian cooking much like lemon is in Western cooking. Use amchur as a souring agent in soups, dals, vegetable dishes and chutneys. Tenderize meats by sprinkling amchur over meats before cooking, or in marinades or condiments. Try amchur powder to add a fruit flavor without adding moisture.