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You’ve been cutting mangoes wrong your whole life!
Mangos are a wonderfully delicious tropical fruit that offer a unique combination of smooth texture, sweetness and tartness. Whether enjoyed on their own, mixed with other fruits, or blended into refreshing smoothies, mangos are a favorite of many. However, when it comes to cutting mangos, there are definitely wrong ways to do it. In this article, we will guide you through the proper mango cutting technique to ensure you get the most out of this delicious fruit.
The importance of choosing a ripe mango
Before we get into the cutting process, it’s important to select a ripe mango. A ripe mango will yield slightly when gently squeezed. It should give a little, indicating that it is soft and juicy. Choosing a ripe mango ensures that the fruit is at its peak flavor and makes the cutting process much easier.
Cutting mangoes the easy way
To cut a mango in the easiest way possible, follow these simple steps:
- Stand the mango upright on its end, with the stem or the indentation where the stem used to be at the top.
- Use a sharp knife to slice off both broad sides of the mango. The knife should run seamlessly along the flat sides of the seed, but be careful not to cut too close and scrape the seed.
- With both sides removed, score the fruit without cutting all the way through the skin. Make shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern to create a grid of cubes.
- Gently press the mango skin inward to release the flesh and reveal the diced mango.
- Use a spoon or knife to separate the mango cubes from the skin.
Handling the seeds and narrower sides
After removing the wide sides of the mango, there will still be some flesh left on the seed and the narrower sides. Follow these steps to get the most out of the fruit:
- Holding the seed firmly, use a knife to cut away the remaining flesh from the seed. Be careful when working around the seed as kitchen knives can be dangerous.
- Cut away the narrower sides of the mango, recognizing that it may take several cuts to completely remove the flesh.
Remember, the key to cutting mangos is to work around the seed, not against it. By following these steps, you can maximize the amount of fruit you enjoy and minimize waste.
Bottom line
Cutting mangos the right way can make a big difference in how you enjoy this tropical fruit. By using the proper technique outlined in this article, you can easily extract the juicy, flavorful flesh without wasting any of it. Remember to select a ripe mango, stand it upright, cut off both broad sides, score the fruit without cutting through the skin, and gently separate the cubes from the skin. Also, be careful when handling the seeds and narrower sides to ensure your safety throughout the process.
Now that you know how to cut mangos, it’s time to put your new skills to work. Enjoy the juicy goodness of perfectly sliced mangos and savor every bite of this tropical treat!
FAQS
Why is it important to cut mangos properly?
Cutting mangos properly ensures that you get the maximum amount of fruit and minimize waste. It also makes it easier to enjoy the mango without wrestling around the seed.
How do I know when a mango is ripe?
A ripe mango will yield slightly when gently squeezed. It should give a little, indicating that it is soft and juicy. Avoid mangos that are too firm or too mushy.
Can I cut a mango without removing the skin?
While it’s possible to eat a mango with the skin on, it’s generally more enjoyable to remove the skin. The skin can be tough and fibrous and can affect the overall texture of the fruit.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when cutting mangos?
Yes, it’s important to be careful with knives. Always use a sharp knife and watch your fingers. Work slowly and carefully to avoid accidents.
Can I use the same technique to cut other types of mangoes?
Yes, the cutting technique described in this article can be applied to different types of mango. However, keep in mind that some mango varieties may have different shapes or sizes, so you may need to make slight adjustments in your approach.
How long can sliced mangoes keep?
Once a mango is cut, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 2-3 days for best quality. After that, the fruit may begin to lose its freshness and flavor. It’s recommended to consume sliced mangoes as soon as possible for the most enjoyable experience.