Amba sauce is a vibrant, tangy, and slightly spicy mango-based condiment that has become a beloved staple across Middle Eastern cuisine. Known for its unique blend of sweet mangoes, aromatic spices, lemon, and chili heat, this sauce adds an irresistible burst of flavor to countless savory dishes.
This version of amba sauce is inspired by a fresh, quick, and easy homemade recipe that highlights real mangoes and bold spices.
Ingredients
This homemade version uses fresh mangoes and whole spices for maximum flavor.
Makes about 16 servings.
- 2 fresh mangoes, peeled and diced
- 4 dried cayenne peppers, stems removed
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon cane sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon fenugreek
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
How to Make Amba Sauce
1. Prepare the Mangoes
Peel and dice the mangoes into medium chunks. Using ripe but firm mangoes helps achieve a smooth, vibrant sauce.
2. Blend the Ingredients
Place the mango chunks, dried cayenne peppers, garlic, lemon juice, water, sugar, salt, cumin, fenugreek, and mustard seed into a blender or food processor.
3. Process Until Smooth
Blend until you achieve a thick, smooth, silky sauce.
If the mixture is too thick, add a small splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste and Adjust
You can adjust the balance according to your taste:
- More lemon for tang
- More chili for heat
- More sugar for sweetness
5. Store the Sauce
Transfer the sauce to a clean, airtight glass jar.
Refrigerate for up to three weeks.
Flavor Profile
Amba sauce stands out because each ingredient contributes to its layered character:
- Mangoes bring natural fruitiness and soft sweetness
- Lemon juice adds acidity to brighten the sauce
- Cayenne peppers provide spicy heat
- Cumin and mustard seeds deepen the savory notes
- Fenugreek adds a subtle, earthy bitterness that defines authentic amba
- Garlic enhances the overall aroma and flavor
The final result is creamy, tangy, mildly spicy, and wonderfully aromatic.
How to Use Amba Sauce
Amba is incredibly versatile and works with a wide range of savory dishes. Some of the best ways to use it include:
1. As a Dipping Sauce
Perfect with pita bread, chips, roasted vegetables, or grilled snacks.
2. As a Sandwich Condiment
Excellent in Middle Eastern sandwiches such as shawarma, sabich, falafel wraps, or even burgers.
3. On Grilled Foods
Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, beef, lamb, fish, or roasted vegetables.
4. As a Marinade or Glaze
Its acidity makes it great for marinating meats or brushing onto grilled foods.
5. In Salads
Thin it with olive oil to create a tangy, exotic salad dressing.
Why Make Amba Sauce at Home?
- Quick and easy: It takes only minutes to prepare.
- Fresh and flavorful: The natural sweetness of mangoes shines through.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat, sweetness, and tang exactly how you like it.
- Versatile: Works with dozens of savory dishes.
- Healthy and natural: No additives—just fresh fruit, spices, and lemon.
Conclusion
Amba sauce is a vibrant, tangy, and boldly spiced condiment that brings Middle Eastern flair to any kitchen. With its combination of ripe mangoes, chili heat, and aromatic spices, it adds depth and excitement to everything from sandwiches to grilled foods.
Making it at home is simple, fast, and incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re looking to elevate your falafel, brighten your shawarma, or add character to your everyday dishes, this homemade amba sauce is a must-try.