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Ambarella
Short Eats & Snacks • Sri Lanka
ගැන Ambarella
Tart green fruit eaten with salt and chili — roadside snack.
How to Make Ambarella Achcharu (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Ambarella Achcharu is a beloved Sri Lankan snack made from the tropical fruit Ambarella, known locally as 'June Plum' or 'Sour Plum'. This fruit is prized throughout Sri Lanka for its tangy flavor and crisp texture. Ambarella Achcharu is a staple at roadside stalls and family gatherings, offering a burst of sourness balanced with spicy and sweet notes. Traditionally, the fruit is sliced and tossed with chili, salt, and other local spices, creating a snack that is both refreshing and invigorating. It’s a perfect example of Sri Lankan cuisine’s ability to turn simple, local ingredients into vibrant dishes. This healthy version of Ambarella Achcharu uses minimal sugar and oil, making it suitable for calorie-conscious eaters. The dish is naturally vegan and vegetarian, utilizing fresh fruit and spices without animal products. Its irresistible taste and ease of preparation make it an ideal snack for anyone exploring the authentic flavors of Sri Lanka. Ambarella Achcharu is not only culturally significant but also a great choice for those seeking nutritious, plant-based snacks. Enjoy the bold flavors and health benefits of this iconic Sri Lankan snack, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
Ingredients(for 1 small bowl (approx. 200g Ambarella Achcharu))
- 2 medium fruits (about 200g) Ambarella (June Plum) (locally called 'Ambarella')
- 1 tsp Red chili powder (fresh Sri Lankan chili preferred)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (to taste)
- 1 tsp Sugar (optional; can substitute with jaggery) - optional
- 1/2 tsp Roasted chili flakes (for extra heat) - optional
- 1 tbsp Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper powder (optional) - optional
- 4-5 leaves Curry leaves (finely chopped) - optional
- 1 tbsp Water (to help mix spices)
Instructions
- 1
Wash and peel the Ambarella fruits. Slice them thinly, removing the seeds.
5 minutes
Use a sharp knife to avoid bruising the fruit and keep slices uniform.
- 2
Transfer the sliced Ambarella into a mixing bowl.
2 minutes
Ensure the bowl is dry to keep the Achcharu crisp.
- 3
Add red chili powder, salt, sugar (or jaggery), roasted chili flakes, and black pepper powder to the bowl.
2 minutes
Adjust spice levels to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- 4
Pour lime juice and water over the Ambarella slices. Toss well to coat each slice evenly.
3 minutes
Mix gently to avoid breaking the fruit slices.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Ambarella Achcharu is a healthy snack due to its high fiber and vitamin content, minimal use of processed sugars, and absence of oil or animal products. The fresh ingredients help boost immunity, aid digestion, and provide sustained energy without excess calories. Its low fat and carbohydrate profile make it suitable for weight loss and diabetic-friendly diets, while the absence of allergens ensures wider accessibility.
Ambarella is rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, supporting immune health and digestion. The fruit is naturally low in calories and fat, making it ideal for weight management. The inclusion of chili and lime provides additional vitamin C and metabolism-boosting properties. Curry leaves offer micronutrients like iron and calcium. This snack is a great source of plant-based nutrients, suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly picked Ambarella for the best crunch and flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust chili and lime to suit your spice tolerance and dietary needs.
- 💡Tip 3: For extra aroma, briefly roast curry leaves before adding.
Storage & Serving
Ambarella Achcharu is best eaten fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but the texture may soften. Avoid freezing.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 46.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.1 g |
| Fiber | 2.2 g |