Mangoes are easily one of the most delicious tropical treats out there. If you’ve got a few too many on hand, you’ll be happy to know they freeze beautifully! Whether you want to save a summer harvest or just prep for smoothie season, here is everything you need to know about keeping that tropical flavor fresh in your freezer.
How to Freeze Mango
Even though mangoes aren’t big fans of the fridge (they are tropical, after all!), they handle the freezer like a charm. The golden rule? Only freeze ripe mangoes.
One of the best ways to do this is by cutting the fruit into bite-sized chunks after peeling and pitting it. To make sure you don’t end up with one giant frozen mango brick, try “flash freezing” them. Spread the pieces out on a baking sheet or in a shallow container so they aren’t touching. Once they’re frozen solid, you can toss them into a freezer bag. This way, you can grab just a handful whenever you need them!
Alternatively, you can freeze mango as a puree. Just blend the fruit until smooth and pour it into ice cube trays. Once the cubes are frozen, pop them into a freezer bag for easy portioning. Just keep in mind that even in the freezer, mangoes won’t stay perfect forever—eventually, they’ll start to lose their signature flavor and vitamins.
Using Your Frozen Mango
Frozen mango chunks are a total game-changer for adding an exotic twist to your cooking. They work perfectly in a sweet-and-sour curry, even when mangoes are totally out of season.
One quick tip: frozen chunks get a bit soft once they thaw, so they aren’t the best for fruit salads where you want a firm texture. However, they are perfect for smoothies, sorbets, or cooked dishes. As for the puree, it’s great for desserts or sauces. Pro tip: the sooner you use it, the better it’ll taste!
Quick Checklist: Tips for Success
Freezing mango is surprisingly simple. Just follow these quick tips to make sure you always have a tropical snack ready to go:
- Freeze in bite-sized chunks.
- Make sure pieces aren’t touching during the initial freeze.
- Try freezing as a puree for smoothies.
- Always peel and pit the fruit first.
- Only use fully ripe mangoes.
No matter which method you choose, don’t forget to label your freezer bag with the date. For the best flavor and quality, try to enjoy your frozen mango within three months.
