Summer is one of the most anticipated seasons in India as it brings along with it the sweet and juicy mangoes. Mumbai, the financial capital of India, experiences a huge influx of tourists and locals alike during the mango season. Today, I ventured to the bustling mango markets in Mumbai in search of the perfect mango and learned first-hand why this tropical fruit is popularly called the “king of fruits”. In this article, I’ll share my insights about the mango season in Mumbai, the popular varieties of mangoes grown in India, traditional foods made with mango, where and how mangoes are sold, and how to select your perfect mango.
Mango season in Mumbai starts from the month of April and lasts until the end of June. During this time, people from all over the city throng to the markets to buy the freshest and most succulent mangoes. More than 1,000 varieties of mangoes are grown in India, with the Alphonso mango being the most popular and coveted.
The Alphonso mango is a variety that comes from the western part of India, especially from the Maharashtra region. It is known for its golden-yellow color, soft texture, and unique sweetness. The Alphonso mango has a distinct flavor and aroma and is considered to be the best of all the mango varieties grown in India. In fact, it is so popular that it has been given the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which means that only mangoes grown in the Konkan region of Maharashtra and a few other regions are allowed to be sold under the name Alphonso mango.
Mangoes come in different shapes, sizes, and colors, and are used in multiple ways in Indian cuisine.
Here are the top 5 varieties of Indian mangoes and what they are used for:
1. Alphonso Mango:
Known as the “King of Mangoes”. Alphonso mangoes have a golden-yellow skin, a pulpy texture, and a sweet, fruity aroma. They are mostly used to make mango pulp, aamras (a sweet and creamy mango pulp), and mango-based drinks like mango Lassi, smoothies, and shakes.
2. Kesar Mango:
Kesar mangoes have a unique orange color, with a pulpy and juicy texture. They are known for their sweet and tangy taste and are mostly used to make mango pulp and aamras. They are also used in making mango chutney and pickles.
3. Langra Mango:
Langra mangoes have a bright-green skin and a tangy flavor. They are mostly used in salads, aamras, and mango chutney. They are also used in making mango drinks and smoothies.
4. Chaunsa Mango:
Chaunsa mangoes are known for their fiberless and juicy texture. They have a yellow skin with a red blush and are mostly used to make mango pulp, mango juice, and mango-based desserts.
5. Totapuri Mango:
Totapuri mangoes have a unique shape, with a pointed end and green-yellow skin. They are widely used in making pickles, chutneys, and in cooking savory dishes like mango curry and mango rice.
There are many traditional foods made with mango in Mumbai. Aamras, which is a delicious mango pulp eaten with puri, is a popular dish during the mango season. Mango lassi, mango ice cream, mango smoothies, mango cakes, and mango milkshakes are also popular. In addition to these, a variety of pickles and chutneys are also made using mangoes. Mangoes are also used in savory dishes such as mango fish curry and mango chicken. Every mango variety is special in its own way and is an essential part of the rich culinary heritage of India.
During mango season in Mumbai, the markets are filled with stalls selling different varieties of mangoes. Some of the popular places to buy mangoes are Crawford Market, Dadar Market, and Malad Market. The mangoes are sold by weight and are priced differently based on the variety and quality. The Alphonso mangoes are generally priced higher than other varieties due to their popularity and unique taste.
As everywhere in India, prices are negotiable. Haggling is expected in the markets. When I asked in English the price of some Alphonso mangoes, the vendor told me 800 rupees (approximately $10) per dozen. When my guide asked in Hindi, the price was 400 per dozen, which she said was still too high! Lessons learned: it aways pays to shop with a local! Carry cash, local currency preferred.
If you plan to buy a lot at the market, you can hire a porter who will follow you from stall to stall carrying your purchases on his head in a basket for about $1 per day.
Mangoes are expected to be juicy, sweet, and delicious. However, when it comes to selecting a ripe mango, it can be a bit tricky.
Here are some tips that can help you choose a ripe mango:
1. Check the skin color: The skin color of a mango can give you a clue about its ripeness. Ripe mangoes usually have a yellow or orange skin color, with some red or green patches. Avoid mangoes that have a predominantly green color, as they are not yet ripe.
2. Squeeze the mango gently: Gently press the mango with your fingers. A ripe mango should give slightly when you press it. However, if it feels too soft or mushy, it may be overripe.
3. Smell the mango: A ripe mango should have a sweet, fruity aroma at the stem end. If there is no aroma, the mango is not yet ripe. However, if the aroma is overpowering or smells fermented, the mango may be overripe.
4. Look for blemishes: While you want to avoid mangoes with major blemishes or bruises, small marks or blemishes on the skin are a sign that the mango is ripe.
5. Consider the season: Mango season varies depending on the region. In general, mangoes are in season from April to June in India. If you are buying mangoes outside of the traditional season, they may be less ripe or less flavorful.
6. Ask for a sample: Most stalls at the markets are happy to let you sample a mango if you plan to buy a few.
Choosing the perfect mango can be a bit of an art, but with a little practice, you'll be able to choose the ripest and most delicious mangoes every time.
Mango season in Mumbai is not just about eating delicious mangoes but also experiencing the rich culture and traditions associated with this fruit.
Here are some other tips for experiencing mango season in Mumbai:
1. Take a food tour: Mumbai is known for its street food, and during the mango season, you can find many street vendors selling mango-based dishes such as mango lassi, mango ice cream, and mango sandwiches. A food tour can guide you through the best street food stalls and help you taste some of the most delicious and unique mango dishes.
2. Visit a cooking school: Many cooking schools in Mumbai offer classes where you can learn to make traditional mango-based dishes. Whether you want to learn how to make aamras, mango pickle, or mango chutney, a cooking school can teach you the skills and techniques needed to make these delicious dishes.
3. Attend a mango festival: During the mango season, you can find many mango festivals taking place in Mumbai. These festivals are a great way to sample different varieties of mangoes, enjoy mango-based dishes, and learn more about the culture and traditions associated with this fruit.
4. Try mango shopping: In addition to street vendors, Mumbai has many specialty stores that sell a wide range of mango-based products such as mango jams, mango juice, and mango candies. Trying these unique products can be a fun and interesting way to experience the mango season in Mumbai.
Mango season in Mumbai is not just about eating delicious mangoes, but also about experiencing the rich culture and traditions associated with this fruit. Whether you take a food tour, attend a mango festival, or visit a cooking school, there are many ways to celebrate this unique and delicious fruit in Mumbai. The mango is India’s National fruit, so no trip to India would be complete without enjoying at least one mango!
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