What Is Mango?
Mango (Mangifera indica) is a tropical fruit from the Anacardiaceae family, originating in South Asia. It is known for its skin that turns from green to yellow, orange or red as it ripens, and its juicy, fiber-free flesh inside.
A wide, flat pit is found in the middle; since this pit is attached to a large portion of the flesh, cutting it requires a bit of technique. In Turkey it is mostly found imported, though limited cultivation is also done along the Mediterranean coast.
Nutritional Values of Mango
Mango is a fruit containing approximately 60 kcal of energy per 100 grams. It is rich in vitamin C and vitamin A; it is also a source of fiber.
What Are the Benefits of Mango?
With its vitamin C and vitamin A content, mango is one of the tropical fruits that stands out as part of a balanced diet. The beta-carotene that gives it its orange-yellow color also contributes to this vitamin content.
This information is general; mango is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Mango?
Fresh mango gives a little when pressed lightly and gives off an intense, sweet scent; skin color can vary by variety, so it is not on its own an indicator of ripeness.
- It should give a little when pressed lightly; excessive firmness indicates unripeness.
- It should give off a sweet and pronounced scent from the stem end.
- There should be no wrinkling or black soft spots on the skin.
How to Store Mango?
Firm mango is left at room temperature for a few days to ripen; once ripe, it stays fresh in the refrigerator for a few more days. Sliced mango can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1–2 days.
Using Mango in the Kitchen
Mango is mostly eaten raw; it is also used in making smoothies, salsa and desserts. Thanks to its sweet-tart balance it also pairs well with chicken and seafood.
How to Cut Mango?
The fleshy parts on either side of the pit are sliced off, and while keeping the skin intact, are scored in a crosshatch pattern; the skin is pushed inside-out to pop out the cubes, which are then separated with a knife.
Mango Salsa
Cubed mango, red onion, cilantro and lemon juice are mixed together to prepare. It is a refreshing accompaniment served together with grilled chicken or fish.
Which Recipes Use Mango?
Mango smoothie, mango salsa, mango dessert and mango chicken salad are among the most popular recipes. Cubed mango is also added to tropical fruit salads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mango good for?
Mango is a fruit containing vitamin C, vitamin A and fiber, and can be consumed as part of a balanced diet. It is a food; it does not claim to cure any disease.
Should mango be eaten with the skin on?
Its skin is technically edible but has a hard and slightly resinous texture; it is consumed peeled by most people.
How is the mango pit separated?
Since the pit is wide and flat, the flesh is sliced away from the middle toward both sides; the flesh remaining close to the pit can be scraped out with a spoon and used.
How many calories does mango have?
A medium mango (approximately 200 g, flesh only) is around 120 kcal; per 100 grams it averages 60 kcal.
Can mango be frozen?
Yes, it can be frozen after cubing; it can be used directly in smoothies and tropical dessert recipes.