How to Cut a Mango

How to Tell if a Mango is Ripe

• Never judge a mango by its color alone. The red color doesn't mean that it's ripe.
• Gently squeeze the mango. It should not be hard, but give slightly like a ripe avocado or a peach would.
• Smell the mango near its stem. If it's ripe, you'll notice its tropical aroma.
• A slightly ripe mango that is still firm is best for cutting. If a mango is too soft, you can scoop out the flesh and use it in smoothies, sorbet, or lassi.
• If your mango is still hard, store at room temperature until it's ripe enough to use. Never refrigerate unripened mangos; they will never ripen. But once they are ripe, you can refrigerate them for 4 to 5 days.
• To speed up the ripening process, store the mangos in a paper bag at room temperature. The ethylene gas they release will help them ripen faster.

Different Types of Mangos

There are several different types of mangos available at stores throughout the seasons.

The Haden (named after its planter) started Florida's mango growing industry, and is the most widely grown mango in the world. It's available March through May. It's green, yellow and red, with its green parts turning yellow as it ripens.

The most common variety found in the U.S. is the Tommy Atkins, which is usually available March through July. Originally grown from a Haden seed, these mangos can be have red, dark green and yellow patches. But you can't tell by looking at them if they are ripe. Best to do the sniff and squeeze test.

The Honey (a.k.a. Ataulfo) varieties are yellow with deep golden flesh. Their skins turn yellow and wrinkle slightly when ripe. These are sweet and tart with thinner skins, making them easier to eat.

There are hundreds of varieties of mangos, but just about a dozen are available in America. Different varieties are ripe at different seasons. Many are from South and Central America, Southeast Asia and India. But most of the mangos available in the United States now come from our tropical neighbors, like Mexico, Ecuador, Brazil, Peru, and Guatemala.

How to Store Freshly Cut Mango

Refrigerate your freshly cut mango in an airtight container or zip-top bag (squeeze out any excess air) for 3 to 5 days.

To freeze your mango pieces, spread them out on a small baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone liner. Once the pieces are firm, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe zip-top bag for up to 6 months.

Recipes to Make With Ripe Mangos

• Mango Lassi
• Mango Sorbet
• Curried Chicken Salad with Mango
• Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Mango Avocado Salsa
• Pineapple Mango Mimosa