Mango Season Essentials: A Guide to 7 Popular Varieties and Their Ideal Harvest Times
Mango Season Essentials: A Guide to 7 Popular Varieties and Their Ideal Harvest Times
Mangoes are more than just a fruit in India—they are a cultural phenomenon. Known as the “king of fruits,” their sweet, juicy pulp and rich flavor make them an essential part of Indian cuisine. However, with a wide variety of mangoes available, choosing the right one at the right time can be overwhelming.
To help mango lovers make the best choices, here’s a guide to seven popular mango varieties and the best time to buy them.
How to Select the Best Mango
When selecting mangoes, color alone is not a reliable indicator of ripeness. Instead, look for these signs:
- Gentle Squeeze: A ripe mango will give slightly when pressed, similar to an avocado or peach.
- Sweet Aroma: Ripe mangoes emit a fruity fragrance near the stem.
- Firmness: Depending on preference, firmer mangoes offer a tangy taste, while softer ones are naturally sweet.
To extend their shelf life, store unripe mangoes at room temperature until they ripen. Once ripe, refrigerate them to keep them fresh for longer.
7 Popular Indian Mango Varieties and Their Best Buying Time
1. Alphonso Mango: The King of Fruits
Grown primarily in Maharashtra’s Konkan region, Alphonso mangoes are recognized for their golden color, rich aroma, and buttery texture. With minimal fiber and a saffron-hued pulp, they are perfect for desserts, shakes, and even savory dishes. Due to their premium quality, Alphonso mangoes are also widely exported.
- Best Time to Buy: April to June
2. Kesar Mango: Saffron Delight
Native to Gujarat’s Girnar foothills, Kesar mangoes are named for their saffron-like color. Their sweet and slightly tangy taste, combined with a fiberless texture, makes them ideal for both direct consumption and traditional sweets like Shrikhand.
- Best Time to Buy: May to July
3. Dasheri Mango: Sweet and Juicy
Originating from Uttar Pradesh, Dasheri mangoes have an elongated shape and yellow skin with occasional red hues. Known for their juicy, fiber-free pulp and intense aroma, they are excellent for eating fresh or making chutneys.
- Best Time to Buy: June to July
4. Banganapalli Mango: A Large and Sweet Treat
Hailing from Andhra Pradesh, Banganapalli mangoes are among the largest varieties. Their smooth yellow skin, sweet flavor, and fiberless flesh make them ideal for fresh consumption and smoothies.
- Best Time to Buy: May to June
5. Langra Mango: A Tangy Delight
Despite its name, which means “lame” in Hindi, the Langra mango is a favorite from Uttar Pradesh. It offers a tangy-sweet taste and a fibrous texture, making it ideal for snacking and salads.
- Best Time to Buy: July to August
6. Totapuri Mango: A Green and Tangy Choice
Predominantly cultivated in South India, the Totapuri mango is known for its beak-like shape and green skin. It has a mild tangy flavor, making it ideal for pickles and salads rather than desserts.
- Best Time to Buy: May to July
7. Chausa Mango: A Sweet Treat with History
A North Indian variety from Bihar, the Chausa mango dates back to the reign of Sher Shah Suri. Its bright yellow skin and intensely sweet pulp make it a top choice for fresh eating and summer drinks.
- Best Time to Buy: July to August
With this guide, mango enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite varieties at the peak of their season. Whether for desserts, beverages, or savory dishes, there’s a mango for every taste and occasion.
