Mangos are the ultimate multitaskers: they’re incredibly healthy and taste like a tropical vacation. But here’s the catch—that amazing flavor only really shines when the fruit is perfectly ripe. If you’ve ever wondered how to pick the best one out of that big pile at the grocery store, I’ve got you covered.
Mango Growing and Harvest Seasons
Mangos are grown all over the world. Because harvest times vary across different continents, we’re lucky enough to find them in supermarkets year-round. However, you’ll often find rock-hard, unripe mangos in the produce aisle. Most are picked early and sent on long boat trips, with the idea that they’ll ripen up during the journey. The problem? That only works if the temperature stays just right. If you spot “tree-ripened” mangos (often shipped by air), grab those! They’re harvested when they’re actually ready, so your chances of getting a sweet one are much higher.
How to Spot a Ripe Mango
Identifying a ripe mango is actually pretty easy once you know what to look for. First, follow your nose! A ripe mango usually gives off a lovely, intense tropical aroma. Next, give it a gentle squeeze; the skin should give slightly under your touch. Just be careful not to press too hard, or you’ll bruise the fruit. Also, take a look at the stem end—on a ripe mango, the flesh there should look plump and slightly raised. One pro tip: ignore the color! Depending on the variety, a mango can be totally green and still be perfectly sweet and ready to eat.
Oops, My Mango is Unripe! Now What?
Did you accidentally bring home a mango that’s still a bit hard? Don’t sweat it; you can easily let it ripen right on your kitchen counter. Keeping it at room temperature usually does the trick pretty quickly. If it’s really unripe, try wrapping it in newspaper or placing it in a paper bag with an apple. Apples release ethylene gas, which acts like a natural ripening booster for other fruits nearby. Just be sure to check on it every day so it doesn’t go from “perfect” to “spoiled” overnight.
Quick Guide: Picking the Perfect Mango
Figuring out if a mango is ready to eat is a breeze when you know the signs. Here’s a quick cheat sheet of the essentials:
- Look for a strong, sweet fragrance.
- Check for plump flesh around the stem.
- The skin should feel soft and give slightly when pressed.
- Remember: only ripe mangos have that signature sweet flavor.
- Unripe fruit can easily be ripened at home.
- If you’re sharing a snack with your dog, make sure the mango is fully ripe first.
- Got too many? Ripe mangos are great for freezing to use in smoothies later!