Embracing the Golden Season
Across India, the mango season, which can stretch from March through September depending on the region, is an eagerly awaited culinary event. From the celebrated Alphonso of Maharashtra to the sweet Kesar of Gujarat, each variety brings its own unique
character. While savouring a freshly sliced mango is a perfect pleasure in itself, dicing this luscious fruit opens up a world of possibilities. Learning to cut a mango efficiently is the first step. Simply slice the fruit lengthwise on either side of the central pit, score the flesh in a grid pattern without cutting the skin, and then push the skin inside-out to pop the cubes out. This simple technique makes it easy to incorporate mango into your daily cooking, adding a burst of sunshine and essential vitamins to your plate.
A Surprising Savoury Star
While we often think of mangoes in desserts, their sweetness provides a brilliant contrast in savoury dishes. A simple chopped mango salsa, mixed with red onion, coriander, lime juice, and a hint of chilli, is a game-changer for grilled fish, chicken, or paneer. It can liven up tacos, nachos, and even simple rice bowls. Beyond salsas, mangoes can be the star of rich and flavourful curries. In many regional Indian cuisines, semi-ripe mangoes are used to add a sweet and tangy dimension to coconut-based curries, balancing the spice beautifully. You can also toss chopped mango into a stir-fry with prawns or chicken, or mix it into a fresh salad with avocado, leafy greens, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and healthy meal.
Sweet Treats Made Simple
When it comes to desserts, chopped mango truly shines. One of the easiest and most beloved treats is a simple mango lassi, where mango is blended with yogurt for a creamy, refreshing drink. For a quick dessert, layer chopped mango with yogurt and granola to create a vibrant parfait. If you have a little more time, an eggless mango mousse, made by folding mango puree into whipped cream with condensed milk, is a light and airy delight. You can also make a quick mango pudding or phirni using semolina, milk, and mango pulp for a comforting and traditional sweet. Another fantastic option is a no-churn ice cream, blending mango with condensed milk and cream before freezing.
Refreshing Sips and Smoothies
On a hot summer day, nothing beats a drink made with fresh mango. Blending chopped mango with a banana, a splash of milk or yogurt, and a touch of honey creates a delicious and filling smoothie to start your day. For a simple and hydrating option, an agua fresca made by blending mango with water and a little lime juice is perfect. For something a bit more festive, you can create sparkling mango mocktails by mixing mango puree with soda water and a sprig of fresh mint. The natural sweetness of the fruit means you often don't need to add much, if any, extra sugar, making these drinks a healthier way to quench your thirst and enjoy the taste of the season.
Storing and Preserving the Sweetness
When you find yourself with an abundance of ripe mangoes, proper storage is key. Freshly chopped mango can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days, and a few drops of lemon juice can help keep it from browning. For longer-term storage, freezing is an excellent option. Simply spread the chopped mango on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, and then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen mango is perfect for smoothies, lassis, and sauces, allowing you to enjoy the taste of summer long after the season has ended. You can also cook down ripe mangoes to make jams or chutneys, preserving them in a delicious new form to enjoy throughout the year.
