What Can I Use Instead of Amchur Powder?

The best substitute for amchur powder is lemon juice. Use about 1 teaspoon of lemon juice for every 1/2 teaspoon of amchur. It gives you the same sourness and works in most recipes. The main difference is that lemon juice adds liquid to the dish, so it's not always a perfect swap.

Here are the best substitutes for amchur powder, depending on what you have at home:

1. Lemon juice (best substitute)

Works well in curries, chutneys, and marinades. Add it near the end of cooking as it can turn bitter if cooked too long. It will add a small amount of liquid to your dish.

2. Lime juice

Same ratio as lemon juice. Slightly sharper, so start with a little less.

3. Tamarind paste

Good for curries and chutneys. Sour with a hint of sweetness. Will add colour to your dish. Use sparingly.

4. Citric acid powder

The best dry substitute. Very sour, so start with a small pinch. Won't add any liquid, which makes it useful for spice rubs and samosa fillings. Available in the baking aisle of most supermarkets.

5. Sumac

A tangy red powder with a citrusy sourness. Works in marinades and vegetable dishes. Less common in supermarkets but available at some delis and spice shops.

None of these are a perfect match

Amchur has a faint fruity depth that's hard to replicate. If it's a key ingredient in your recipe, it's worth having the real thing. We stock amchur powder in our online store and deliver Australia-wide.

For more on what amchur is and how to use it, see our full guide: What is Amchur Powder (Dried Mango Powder)?

About the author

We're a small family-run business based in Brisbane, bringing authentic Indian spices straight to Australian kitchens.