Beyond Alphonso: Exploring Summer's Mango Varieties

Summer unfolds, painting the world in vibrant hues and calling for refreshing treats. And what better way to celebrate the season's warmth than with the king of fruits – the mighty mango! This juicy, tropical delight boasts a variety of flavors, textures, and colors, offering a taste bud adventure for every palate. But with so many mango varieties gracing the market shelves, choosing the perfect one can be overwhelming. Fear not, fellow mango enthusiasts! This guide delves into the world of summer mangoes, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate the vibrant kingdom.

 

Alphonso (Hapus):

Hailing from the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, Alphonso is revered as the "Crown Jewel" of Indian mangoes. Its oblong shape, vibrant golden yellow skin with a blush of red, and a thin green stem make it instantly recognizable. Alphonso's magic lies in its exquisite sweetness, boasting a rich, creamy flesh with a hint of floral aroma. This delicate fruit is best enjoyed on its own, allowing its pure sweetness to take center stage. 

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price: 249rs

 

Kesar:

Translating to "saffron" in Hindi, Kesar mangoes live up to their name with a beautiful saffron-yellow hue. Grown primarily in Gujarat, these heart-shaped gems are known for their intense sweetness and vibrant aroma. The flesh is fiber-free, melt-in-your-mouth perfection, making it ideal for fresh consumption or indulging in decadent mango puddings and ice creams.

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price: 194rs

 

Langra:

Arriving a bit later in the summer season, Langra mangoes from Varanasi are a delightful treat. Oval-shaped with a greenish-yellow skin, Langra offers a unique flavor profile. It's incredibly sweet, with a subtle undertone of tanginess that adds a refreshing twist. The firm flesh makes it perfect for salads or enjoying with a sprinkle of chili powder and salt for a sweet and spicy combination.

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price: 129rs

 

Chausa:

Cultivated in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, Chausa mangoes are another crowd-pleaser. These large, oval-shaped fruits have a golden yellow skin with a prominent green beak. The flesh is juicy and vibrantly orange, boasting a distinct sweetness with a hint of honeyed flavor. Chausa's versatility shines in both sweet and savory applications. It's perfect for enjoying fresh, using in chutneys, or even grilling for a smoky twist. 

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price: 106rs

 

Safeda (Banganapalli):

Hailing from Andhra Pradesh, Safeda mangoes are a delightful surprise for those who prefer a touch of tang alongside sweetness. Round-shaped with a golden yellow skin that sometimes has green patches, Safeda offers a juicy, fiber-free flesh. Its flavor profile is a delightful balance of sweetness and a refreshing tartness, making it ideal for enjoying fresh or using in juices and summer coolers.

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price: 107rs

 

Totapuri:

This unique mango variety originates from Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Totapuri mangoes are oval-shaped with a green skin that sometimes has a yellowish tinge. Unlike its sweeter counterparts, Totapuri boasts a prominent tanginess, with a hint of sweetness lurking beneath. The firm flesh makes it perfect for chutneys, pickles, or even curries, adding a burst of tangy flavor to savory dishes.  

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price: 100rs

 

Neelum:

This mango variety, primarily grown in Pakistan and parts of India, is known for its eye-catching appearance. With a deep green skin that sometimes has a purple hue, Neelum offers a unique flavor profile. It's moderately sweet with a dominant tanginess, making it perfect for those who enjoy a refreshingly tart treat. Neelum is often enjoyed fresh or used in chutneys and pickles.

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price: 68rs

 

Aamrapali:

This mango variety is a rising star, particularly popular in Maharashtra. Aamrapali mangoes are oblong-shaped with a vibrant yellow skin. They offer a unique flavor profile – a balanced blend of sweetness and a subtle sourness, with a distinct floral aroma. The flesh is juicy and fiber-less, making it perfect for enjoying fresh or using in sweet treats.

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price: 99rs

 

Dasheri:

This mango variety is known for its distinct green color, even when fully ripe. Cultivated in North India, Dasheri mangoes offer a unique flavor profile. They are quite sweet with a hint of floral aroma and a slightly fibrous flesh. While some enjoy them fresh, Dasheri mangoes are particularly well-suited for drying, creating delicious mango leathers or candies.

Image courtesy: BigBasket

price: 197rs

 

The Perfect Pick: Choosing Your Mango Match

With such a diverse range of mangoes available, choosing the perfect one depends on your personal preference. Do you crave pure sweetness or a touch of tang? Are you looking for a juicy treat or a firm fruit