When it comes to in-season spring produce, mangoes are standout superstars. This exotic fruit is sweet, fleshy and satisfying to eat on its own or as a welcome addition to recipes. You'll find a variety of coloured mangoes (red, green and yellow) in your grocery store, but the inside is always golden and delicious.
How to tell if a mango is ripe Since mangoes come in a variety of shades, it's not always easy to tell if they're ready to eat based on their colour. A mango should smell like a mango—it should have a sweet scent. And, if you gently press on the fruit, it should be a little tender. This means it's not soft, and not firm, but it will give a little when pressed.
How to speed up the ripening process If you purchase mangoes that are not ripe, place them in a paper bag and leave them on your counter for one or two days. Once ripened, transfer them to the refrigerator.
Try prepared mangoes in these 10 refreshing recipes:
Appetizers/Sides
Bruléed ginger mangoes
Smoked trout and mango bites
Originally published July 2014. Updated May 2017.
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