Mangoes, with their vibrant colors, intoxicating aroma, and sweet, tangy flavor, are a true gift from the tropics. But what happens when the mango tree in your backyard decides to bestow upon you an overwhelming abundance of these golden fruits? Don’t fret! Having too many mangoes is a delicious problem to have. This article will guide you through a myriad of creative and delectable ways to use up your mango bounty, ensuring none of that tropical goodness goes to waste.
Embrace the Mango Mania: Creative Culinary Adventures
When life gives you mangoes, make something extraordinary! Beyond simply eating them fresh, there’s a whole universe of culinary possibilities waiting to be explored. Mangoes are incredibly versatile and lend themselves well to both sweet and savory dishes.
Mango Smoothies and Juices: A Refreshing Start
One of the simplest and most satisfying ways to use up a large quantity of mangoes is to blend them into refreshing smoothies or juices. The natural sweetness and creamy texture of mangoes make them a perfect base for these beverages.
For a basic mango smoothie, simply combine chopped mango with yogurt, milk (dairy or non-dairy), and a touch of honey or maple syrup if needed. You can also add other fruits like bananas, strawberries, or pineapple to create your own custom blends. Experiment with adding greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost.
Mango juice is equally easy to make. Blend ripe mangoes with water or coconut water until smooth. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve for a smoother consistency, if desired.
Mango Desserts: Sweet Endings
Mangoes shine in the dessert department. Their sweetness and unique flavor profile make them ideal for a variety of treats.
Consider making a classic mango pie or tart. The combination of flaky crust and sweet, juicy mango filling is simply irresistible. Alternatively, explore the world of mango cheesecakes, mousses, and puddings. These desserts are often surprisingly easy to make and are guaranteed to impress.
Mango ice cream and sorbet are another fantastic option, especially during the warmer months. The natural sugars in mangoes often mean you need very little additional sweetener.
For a more exotic treat, try making mango sticky rice, a popular Thai dessert. It’s a delightful combination of sweet, glutinous rice and creamy coconut milk, topped with slices of ripe mango.
Savory Mango Dishes: A Tropical Twist
Don’t limit your mangoes to desserts! They can add a unique and delicious twist to savory dishes.
Mango salsa is a refreshing and vibrant condiment that pairs perfectly with grilled fish, chicken, or pork. Combine diced mango with red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, jalapeno, and lime juice for a burst of flavor.
Mango chutney is another excellent option. This sweet and tangy condiment can be enjoyed with grilled meats, cheeses, or even spread on sandwiches. There are many variations of mango chutney recipes, ranging from mild to spicy.
Mango salads are a great way to incorporate mangoes into your diet. Add diced mango to a green salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a light and refreshing meal.
You can also use mangoes in curries and stir-fries. Their sweetness complements the spicy flavors of these dishes, creating a balanced and flavorful meal.
Preserving the Mango Goodness: Extending the Shelf Life
If you have an abundance of mangoes and can’t use them all immediately, preserving them is a great way to extend their shelf life and enjoy their flavor year-round.
Freezing Mangoes: A Simple Solution
Freezing mangoes is a quick and easy way to preserve them. Simply peel and cube the mangoes, then spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for a few hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. This prevents the mango pieces from sticking together.
Frozen mangoes are perfect for smoothies, juices, and desserts. They can also be added to yogurt or oatmeal for a healthy and delicious breakfast.
Making Mango Jam or Preserves: A Sweet Spread
Turning your mangoes into jam or preserves is a classic way to preserve their flavor. Mango jam can be used as a spread on toast, crackers, or pastries.
The process involves cooking chopped mangoes with sugar and pectin until they reach a desired consistency. You can add other fruits or spices to customize the flavor of your jam.
Dehydrating Mangoes: A Chewy Treat
Dehydrating mangoes is a great way to create a chewy and flavorful snack. The process involves removing the moisture from the mangoes, which concentrates their flavor and sweetness.
You can use a food dehydrator or your oven to dehydrate mangoes. Simply slice the mangoes into thin strips and arrange them on the dehydrator trays or a baking sheet. Dehydrate them at a low temperature until they are leathery and slightly sticky.
Pickling Mangoes: A Tangy Twist
Pickled mangoes are a unique and flavorful condiment that is popular in many cultures. The pickling process involves preserving unripe mangoes in a vinegar-based brine.
Pickled mangoes can be enjoyed as a side dish or used as an ingredient in salads and other dishes. They have a tangy and slightly sour flavor that complements many different foods.
Beyond the Kitchen: Unexpected Uses for Mangoes
Mangoes aren’t just for eating! There are a few unexpected ways to utilize the fruit (and even the seed!) that you might find surprising.
Mango Seed Butter: A Nut-Free Alternative
Don’t toss the mango seeds! They can be used to make a nut-free butter alternative. Roast the seeds until they are dry and brittle. Then, grind them into a fine powder using a food processor. Add a little oil and salt to create a smooth and creamy butter.
Mango seed butter can be used in the same way as other nut butters. Spread it on toast, add it to smoothies, or use it as an ingredient in baking.
Natural Skin Care: Mango Benefits
Mangoes contain vitamins and antioxidants that can be beneficial for your skin. You can create a simple mango face mask by blending ripe mango with yogurt or honey. Apply the mask to your face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off.
Mangoes can help to brighten your skin, reduce inflammation, and improve its overall texture.
Composting: Eco-Friendly Disposal
If you have too many mango peels and seeds, composting them is a great way to dispose of them in an environmentally friendly way. Mango peels and seeds are a good source of nutrients for your compost pile.
Remember to chop the peels and seeds into smaller pieces to help them decompose faster.
Mango Recipes to Inspire You
Here are a few specific recipes to get you started on your mango-using adventure:
Mango Salsa Recipe
Ingredients:
* 2 ripe mangoes, diced
* 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
* 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with grilled fish, chicken, or pork.
Mango Chutney Recipe
Ingredients:
* 4 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
* 1 cup brown sugar
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup raisins
* 1 tablespoon grated ginger
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* Salt to taste
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chutney has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Let the chutney cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Mango Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients:
* 1 cup chopped mango
* 1/2 cup yogurt
* 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
Beyond the Recipe: Sharing the Mango Love
Perhaps the most satisfying way to deal with an abundance of mangoes is to share them with others! Offer them to your neighbors, friends, and family. Bring a basket of mangoes to your workplace or community center. Sharing your mango bounty is a wonderful way to spread joy and connect with others.
Consider donating some of your mangoes to a local food bank or charity. Many organizations are grateful for donations of fresh produce, especially during the summer months.
You can also organize a mango-themed potluck or picnic. Invite your friends and family to bring dishes made with mangoes. This is a fun and creative way to celebrate the mango season and discover new recipes.
No matter how you choose to use your abundance of mangoes, remember to enjoy the process. Mangoes are a true delight, and having too many is a blessing in disguise. Embrace the mango mania and explore the many possibilities that these tropical fruits have to offer. Experiment, get creative, and share the mango love with others. You’ll be amazed at the delicious and rewarding experiences that await you.
Can I freeze mangoes to preserve them for later use?
Yes, freezing mangoes is an excellent way to preserve their flavor and nutritional value. To freeze mangoes, peel and dice them into uniform pieces. Spread the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for a couple of hours until solid, then transfer the frozen mango pieces to a freezer bag or airtight container. This prevents them from clumping together, making it easier to use only the amount you need later.
Frozen mangoes can be stored in the freezer for up to a year. They are perfect for smoothies, sauces, desserts, or even enjoyed straight from the freezer as a refreshing treat. Remember to label the bag or container with the date to keep track of how long they’ve been stored. Thawing is not always necessary, especially if you are using them in smoothies.
How can I use overripe mangoes that are too soft to eat fresh?
Overripe mangoes, while not ideal for slicing and enjoying raw, are perfect for creating delicious purees and sauces. The extra softness makes them incredibly easy to blend into smooth textures. You can use these purees in a variety of ways, from breakfast toppings to savory sauces for grilled meats. Consider adding spices like ginger, chili, or lime for an extra layer of flavor.
Alternatively, overripe mangoes can be used in baked goods. They add moisture and sweetness to cakes, muffins, and breads. Consider adding them to your favorite banana bread recipe or creating a mango-infused cheesecake. The intense sweetness and soft texture will blend seamlessly into the batter, resulting in a moist and flavorful treat.
What are some savory dishes I can make with mangoes?
Mangoes aren’t just for sweet treats; they can also add a tropical twist to savory dishes. Consider making a mango salsa to accompany grilled fish, chicken, or pork. The sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of the grill and provides a refreshing contrast. You can also add diced mango to salads for a burst of flavor and color.
Another savory option is to use mango in curries or stir-fries. The mango adds a subtle sweetness that balances the spices and other savory ingredients. It also provides a unique texture and visual appeal to the dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of flavors to find your favorite savory mango creation.
Can I make jams or preserves with a surplus of mangoes?
Absolutely! Mangoes make a fantastic jam or preserve, capturing the essence of summer in a jar. You can combine mangoes with other fruits like pineapple or passion fruit for a more complex flavor profile. Adding pectin helps to thicken the mixture and ensure proper setting. Follow a tested recipe for jam-making to ensure safety and quality.
Mango preserves can be enjoyed on toast, crackers, or even used as a glaze for meats. They also make wonderful homemade gifts. Remember to sterilize your jars and lids properly before filling them with the hot jam to ensure proper sealing and prevent spoilage. A properly sealed jar of mango jam can last for up to a year.
What kind of desserts can I create using mangoes?
Mangoes are incredibly versatile when it comes to desserts. From simple treats like mango sorbet or ice cream to more elaborate creations like mango cheesecakes and tarts, the possibilities are endless. Consider using mango in classic desserts like panna cotta or rice pudding to add a tropical twist. You can also make mango mousse or parfait for a light and refreshing dessert.
For a quick and easy dessert, try making mango sticky rice. This traditional Thai dessert combines sweet sticky rice with slices of fresh mango and a drizzle of coconut milk. Alternatively, you can bake a mango crumble or cobbler for a warm and comforting dessert. The key is to let the natural sweetness and flavor of the mango shine through.
How can I use mangoes in beverages?
Mangoes are fantastic additions to a wide variety of beverages. Blend them into smoothies for a creamy and refreshing treat. They pair well with other fruits like banana, pineapple, and spinach. You can also add mango puree to juices or cocktails for a tropical twist. Consider making mango lemonade or mango iced tea for a refreshing summer drink.
Another option is to create mango lassi, a traditional Indian yogurt-based drink. Mango lassi is thick, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. You can also use mangoes to make alcoholic beverages like mango margaritas or mango mojitos. The sweetness and tanginess of the mangoes complement the other ingredients perfectly, creating a delicious and flavorful cocktail.
What are some less common uses for mangoes?
Beyond the usual suspects, mangoes can be used in some unique and less common ways. Consider making mango chutney, a spicy and tangy condiment that pairs well with Indian dishes or can be served alongside grilled meats. You can also dehydrate mango slices to create chewy and flavorful mango chips, a healthy and portable snack.
Another interesting use for mangoes is in beauty products. Mango butter, extracted from the mango seed, is a rich emollient that can be used in lotions, creams, and lip balms. It’s known for its moisturizing and skin-softening properties. You can even make a simple mango face mask by blending ripe mango with yogurt and honey for a nourishing and brightening treatment.