Mango

Mango is tropical abundance incarnate — golden, sun-drenched, and unapologetically luscious. Its flavor moves between honey and citrus, floral and resinous, with a richness that feels almost decadent. Mango embodies ripeness and vitality, the fullness of life expressed through sweetness.

VOLUME

Loud

FLAVOR PAIRINGS

Pineapple, papaya, passionfruit, guava, banana, orange, lime, lemon, yuzu, grapefruit, coconut, coconut milk, coconut cream, cashew, macadamia, almond, pistachio, vanilla, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, star anise, chili, ginger, turmeric, mint, basil, cilantro, lemongrass, rose, hibiscus, cacao, carob, date, raisin, fig, tamarind, agave, maple syrup, coconut sugar, soy yogurt, coconut yogurt, oats, quinoa, chia seed, flaxseed, hemp seed, spinach, kale, cucumber, zucchini, avocado, lime leaf, bell pepper, tomato, red chili, onion, garlic, miso, tamari, rice, sticky rice, coconut rice, vegan ice creams, smoothies, lassis, sorbets, curries, chutneys, and tropical desserts.

SELECTING

Choose mangoes that yield slightly to gentle pressure and release a fragrant, sweet aroma near the stem. Skin color varies by variety — judge by scent and softness, not hue. Avoid bruises or wrinkled skin unless intentionally ripening.

HOW TO USE

Slice along the pit and score the flesh into cubes or thin slices. Blend into smoothies, sauces, or dressings. Puree for desserts or freeze for sorbets. Add diced mango to salads, salsas, or curries for a bright, fruity contrast. Combine with chili or lime for balance.

STORING

Ripen firm mangoes at room temperature, then refrigerate once soft to slow aging. Peeled mango can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for several days or frozen for long-term use.

SUBSTITUTIONS

Papaya for tropical creaminess. Peach or nectarine for similar sweetness and texture. Pineapple for tangy brightness.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Rich in vitamins A and C, beta-carotene, and polyphenols that support skin, immunity, and eye health. Energizing and hydrating, aiding digestion and restoring vitality. Energetically uplifting — opens the heart, supports joy, and enhances creative flow.

CONCERNS

Mango skin can irritate sensitive skin due to urushiol. Overripe fruit may ferment quickly in hot climates — use promptly once soft.

HISTORY

Originating in South Asia over 4,000 years ago, mango has been called the “fruit of the gods.” In Ayurveda, it symbolizes prosperity and love — a fruit of divine sweetness, meant to remind the eater of abundance, sensuality, and life’s natural pleasure.