Mangoes always catch my eye when I’m grocery shopping. It’s hard to not be pulled over to them, with their pretty hues a reminder of the sweet, juicy flavor hiding just under the skin. I just introduced my family to mangoes a few years ago, and now they can never get enough.
Plus, right now we’re diving into Atualfo mango season, one of my (and my son’s) favorite times of year. Atualfo mangos are smaller with vibrant golden skin and smooth, creamy flesh. They’re delightfully sweet and perfect for all sorts of recipes or just snacking, so be sure to grab a case and get a discount!
Selecting Mangoes
When choosing mangoes, color isn’t always the best indicator. Because different varieties of mango have different hues, rely on other signs.
A ripe mango will have a slight give when handled, and should have a sweet and fragrant aroma at the stem end. Mangoes that have wrinkly skin or are extremely soft are overripe.
Remember, you can purchase unripe mangoes and let them ripen on your kitchen counter. If you want them to ripen faster, simply place the mangoes in a paper bag.
Preparing and Using Mangoes
You’ll want to use your ripe mangoes as soon as possible to enjoy their sweet taste. Here are two easy ways to prepare mango.
Fan method:
Stand mango on end and slice off the two “cheeks” on either side of the flat, oblong mango pit, then slice slivers off the remaining chunk of mango.
Cut mango into long wedges.
Carefully run knife underneath the flesh of each mango piece to remove skin.
Thinly slice each wedge of mango to make pretty fan-like slices.
Hedgehog method:
Stand mango on end and slice off the two cheeks.
Taking care not to cut through the skin, make vertical lines about 1/4 inch apart.
Turn the mango and make perpendicular slices to create a grid pattern in the mango flesh.
Flip mango cheek inside out to fan the flesh into a “hedgehog” shape.
Scoop out cubes with a large spoon or slice off with a knife, close to the skin.
Get Cooking!
Now that you’ve got your mango ready to go, here are some favorite recipes to enjoy with it!
Braised Chicken with Mangoes Recipe opens in a new tab
This simple dish pairs flavorful chicken thighs with mango for sweet-and-savory dinner.
Mango Oatmeal Poppers Recipe opens in a new tab
Start the day with these naturally-sweet mini muffins that also feature cashews.
Tofu Veggie Skewers with Pineapple Mango Jerk Sauce Recipe opens in a new tab
These spicy skewers can also be made on a stovetop grill pan, if you can’t grill outdoors.
Mango Salad with Chile-Lime Salt Recipe opens in a new tab
This refreshing salad hits all your taste buds. It makes a great snack or side dish!
Flank Steak Fajitas with Mango Chimichurri Recipe opens in a new tab
Double up on mango with these flavorful fajitas. If you’re not up for steak, just swap in your favorite protein.
Mango Upside-Down Cake Recipe opens in a new tab
This whole-wheat cake uses coconut oil and coconut milk for even more tropical flavor.
There are so many ways to love mangoes — check out more of our favorite mango recipes opens in a new tab. Your turn! What are your favorite ways to enjoy mango? Share your recipes in the comments.
