Sri Lankan Mango
Short Eats & Snacks • Sri Lanka
ගැන Sri Lankan Mango
Sweet Karthakolomban or Willard varieties — seasonal luxury.
How to Make Sri Lankan Mango Achcharu (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sri Lankan Mango Achcharu is a beloved snack enjoyed throughout Sri Lanka, especially during the mango season. This tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet dish is made by tossing fresh, raw mango slices with chili, salt, and a blend of traditional Sri Lankan spices. Achcharu is more than just a snack—it's a celebration of local produce and vibrant flavors, often sold by street vendors or prepared at home as a refreshing treat. The combination of crisp mango and zesty seasoning offers an irresistible taste that’s both cooling and invigorating, making it ideal for hot days. Mango Achcharu holds a special place in Sri Lankan food culture. It’s a snack that brings people together, often enjoyed with friends and family at gatherings, festivals, or as an afternoon pick-me-up. The dish showcases the island’s love for bold flavors and natural ingredients, highlighting the versatility of mango in Sri Lankan cuisine. Not only is it vegan and vegetarian-friendly, but it’s also light, low in calories, and easily adaptable to suit various dietary needs, making it perfect for health-conscious eaters worldwide.
Ingredients(for 1 small bowl (approx. 150g))
- 2 medium Raw green mango (Unripe local variety preferred)
- 1 tsp Red chili powder (Use Sri Lankan chili powder for authentic heat)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Sugar (Coconut sugar or brown sugar for a healthier option)
- 1/4 tsp Mustard seeds (Roasted and ground)
- 1 tbsp Vinegar (Coconut vinegar or white vinegar)
- 1/4 tsp Pepper (Freshly ground)
- 1 small Green chilies (Finely chopped, adjust to taste) - optional
- 5-6 Curry leaves (Finely sliced (optional)) - optional
- 1 cup Salted water (For soaking mango) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Wash and peel the raw green mangoes. Cut the mango flesh into thin slices or sticks, discarding the pit.
5 minutes
Choose firm, unripe mangoes for the best crisp texture.
- 2
Soak the mango slices in salted water for 5 minutes to reduce excess sourness and bitterness.
5 minutes
This step also helps keep the mango slices crunchy.
- 3
Drain the mango slices and pat them dry with a clean towel.
2 minutes
Drying prevents the achcharu from becoming watery.
- 4
In a large bowl, combine the mango slices with chili powder, salt, sugar, ground mustard seeds, and black pepper.
2 minutes
Toss gently to coat the mango evenly with the spices.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This recipe is a healthy choice because it relies on fresh fruits, natural spices, and minimal added sugars. It’s free of oil, gluten, and animal products, making it suitable for most diets. The high fiber and vitamin content of mangoes, combined with the metabolism-enhancing properties of chili and mustard, make this snack both nourishing and satisfying for anyone seeking healthier eating habits.
Sri Lankan Mango Achcharu is naturally low in calories and fat, making it an ideal snack for those watching their weight or following a plant-based diet. Mangoes provide dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and beneficial antioxidants, which support immunity and skin health. The use of spices like mustard and chili adds metabolism-boosting benefits and flavor without extra calories. Minimal sugar is used, and optional coconut sugar provides a healthier alternative to refined sweeteners.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use unripe mangoes for the ideal sourness and crunch.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust chili and salt to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- 💡Tip 3: Add other fruits like pineapple or ambarella for variation.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover achcharu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors intensify as it sits, but consume soon for the best texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 60.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.4 g |
| Fiber | 1.6 g |