Mangoes aren’t just a healthy treat; that sweet, tropical flavor is like a mini-vacation in every bite. One of my favorite ways to enjoy them year-round is by drying them. It’s the perfect way to make sure you always have a delicious, healthy snack ready to go!
Drying Mango: What You Need to Know
Drying your own mango at home is actually super simple. Just keep these quick tips in mind and you’ll be a pro in no time:
- Only use fully ripe fruit for the best flavor.
- Don’t slice the pieces too thick.
- Dry them thoroughly—you don’t want any moisture left behind.
- Let them cool down completely before packing them away.
- Store them the right way: in an airtight container in a cool, dark spot.
The best part? It takes very little effort compared to the delicious results. With just a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a stash of healthy snacks whenever a craving hits.
How to Do It
First, grab a ripe mango and peel it. Slice the fruit into thin strips or bite-sized pieces—keeping them uniform helps ensure they dry evenly.
If you want to go the old-school route, you can actually air-dry them. A warm, dry attic is a great spot for this. Just thread the pieces onto a string, making sure they aren’t touching each other, and hang them up. If the conditions are right, they’ll dry out beautifully.
If you’d rather use your oven, just spread the slices out on a baking sheet. Set your oven to about 160°F (70°C). You don’t want it too hot, or you’ll cook the fruit instead of drying it! Pro tip: Leave the oven door cracked open just a tiny bit so the moisture can escape. Once they’re done and fully cooled, pop them into an airtight container. By the way, if drying isn’t your thing, freezing mango is another great way to make them last.
How to Use Your Dried Mango
There are so many ways to use dried mango! They’re fantastic in all sorts of exotic recipes because they hold onto that punchy tropical aroma even when cooked. You can also chop them up to make a unique jam, stir them into your morning oatmeal or muesli, or even drop a few pieces into a cup of hot herbal tea for a fruity twist.
