Mango. You've probably heard of it, and you might have even tasted it before.
But what does mango taste like? Is it sweet? Is it sour? What's the best way to eat it?
What are the flavors that are associated with this delicious fruit?
In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a closer look at the flavors of mango and provide some tips on how to enjoy this fruit to its fullest potential.
Enjoy!
What is a Mango?
The mango is a highly nutritious tropical fruit that has been around for centuries.
It is believed to have originated in India, and it has been enjoyed by people all over the world for its delicious flavor and nutritional benefits.
Now it is grown in countries such as India, Thailand, Mexico and Brazil.
They are yellow-orange when ripe, with soft flesh inside that ranges from orange to deep red.
The skin can be eaten, but make sure you wait until the fruit has reached full ripeness, or else it can be unpleasantly sour! Thankfully, the mangos ripen after they're picked as well.
What Does Mango Taste Like?
Taste
Mango tastes as good as it sounds.
It is a sweet-tasting fruit with a flavor profile unlike any other fruit.
Some people think it tastes like a combination of pineapple, peach, apple, banana, pear, grapefruit, and apricot – but no one knows for sure what the definite flavor is.
We are all speculating but most agree it carries characters from many different fruits.
I know... not the answer you were looking for.
Unfortunately, that's the way it goes for a lot of foods in the culinary world. Leave a comment at the bottom of the page if you feel like you've got the flavor profile pegged.
The skin of the mango also tastes good, so you don't have to peel it before eating. A ripe mango will taste juicy and "orange-like".
Smell
Mango has a unique smell that is hard to describe, but many people find it pleasant.
A mix of sweet (yes, we know not a smell but difficult to find a more appropriate descriptor) and fruity, with a hint of tropical flavor
Texture
The texture is smooth, tender and juicy which makes it perfect for tropical cocktails.
Unripe Vs. Ripe Mango (flavor and texture differences)
Mangoes come in different stages of ripeness, and the flavor and texture of unripe vs. ripe mango can be pretty different.
Unripe mangoes are sour and not as sweet as ripe mangoes. The texture is also harder and not as smooth.
Ripe mangoes are much sweeter and have a softer, smoother texture. They are a bright orange color, and the skin becomes soft when ripe.
When are Mangoes in Season?
Mangoes are easy to find at the grocery store year-round, but they are most common during the summer months of April through August.
How to Choose the Perfect Mango
The best way to choose the perfect mango is by looking at its color.
Wait until your mango is bright yellow-orange or smells sweet before eating it or using it in a recipe.
A bad mango can be green or too sour, and it will not have a sweet smell. It will also be hard and lack a smooth texture.
A good mango will be a bright yellow-orange color and have soft, smooth flesh. It should also smell sweet and have a juicy, delicious taste once eaten.
Is Mango a Citrus Fruit?
Mangoes are not a citrus fruit, but they are often confused because of their sweet flavor and orange color.
Citrus fruits include oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes.
Mangoes belong to the family Anacardiaceae, which also includes pistachios and cashews.
Mango Pairings
Mangoes are a versatile fruit that can be paired with a variety of other foods. Some of the best mango pairings include pineapple, peach, apple, banana, pear, kiwi, and milk tea.
Mango smoothies, juices, and recipes are delicious and nutritious when made with fresh or frozen mangoes.
Mangos also complement a variety of ingredients, including jalapeño peppers, coconut milk, cream, ginger, lemons and limes, red onions, black beans, fish, duck meat and poultry, orange juice and rum.
You can check out this extensive list on mango pairings and start getting creative in the kitchen.
Health Benefits of Mango
Mangoes provide a range of health benefits. They are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium, copper and antioxidants, which can help protect the body from disease.
Mangoes are also low in calories and a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure.
One cup of sliced fresh or frozen mango contains 93% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C and nearly 40% of daily vitamin A.
Additionally, mangoes are a natural source of sweetness, making them a great choice for people who are trying to reduce their sugar intake.
Can you Freeze Mango?
Yes, you can freeze mangoes!
Simply cut the mango into small pieces and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Frozen mangoes can be used in mango smoothies, juices, and other recipes.
They can also be eaten on their own as a healthy snack!
Conclusion
Mangoes are a delicious and nutritious fruit enjoyed by people all over the world. They make for an excellent addition to just about any meal! If you're looking for a new and exciting fruit to add to your diet, be sure to give mangos a try.
Have you ever had a mango? What did you think of the taste? What are your favorite pairings? Let us know in the comments, and reach out if you have any further questions about this delicious fruit.
Cheers,
Michael
Founder of Robust Kitchen
