Arabic & Levantine Pantry Guide
What is amba? The spiced mango sauce from Iraq
Amba is a tangy, spiced sauce made from pickled green mango, seasoned with fenugreek, turmeric and mustard. It comes from Iraq, where it is served with shawarma, falafel and grilled meat.
Also known as:Amba sauceAnbaMango pickle saucePickled mango
What does amba taste like and what is in it?
Firm green mangoes are salted, dried and pickled with spices. Fenugreek gives the typical bitter-sweet aroma, turmeric the yellow colour, mustard and chilli the heat. It tastes salty, sour and bold rather than sweet. You can find it as a smooth sauce, with mango pieces, mild or hot.
What goes with amba?
It is best known in a shawarma or falafel sandwich. It also works with grilled meat, eggs and rice, or as a small side with hummus. Because it is so strong, a teaspoon is enough. Keep opened jars in the fridge.
