India’s love affair with mangoes dates back thousands of years, with this luscious fruit being a symbol of abundance, prosperity, and divine indulgence. Every summer, as the sun’s rays intensify and the heat engulfs the land, the streets come alive with the aroma of ripe mangoes. This mouthwatering fruit finds its way into a multitude of Indian dishes, desserts, and beverages, enchanting both locals and foreigners alike.
As we celebrate National Mango Day in 2023, it’s the perfect opportunity to embark on a culinary journey through India’s diverse and exotic desi mango varieties. From the foothills of the Himalayas to the coastal plains of the south, each region boasts its unique and extraordinary mangoes. In this article, we will explore ten of the most exquisite and flavorful desi mango varieties that every mango enthusiast must try.
1. Alphonso Mango:
Known as the “King of Mangoes,” the Alphonso mango hails from the Ratnagiri and Devgad districts of Maharashtra. This variety is renowned for its unmatched sweetness, buttery texture, and rich, saffron-colored flesh. Alphonso mangoes have even earned the esteemed Geographical Indication (GI) tag due to their exceptional taste and aroma. To savor the true essence of India’s mango culture, a taste of Alphonso is essential.
2. Kesar Mango:
Originating from the foothills of the Girnar mountains in Gujarat, Kesar mangoes offer a delightful blend of sweetness and tanginess. The fruit’s flesh is bright orange, and its distinct flavor and fragrance make it one of the most sought-after varieties in the country. Enjoyed both fresh and in various culinary delights, Kesar mangoes embody the true essence of Gujarat’s gastronomic heritage.
3. Banganapalli Mango:
Hailing from the southern state of Andhra Pradesh, Banganapalli mangoes are known for their elongated shape and fiberless, golden-yellow flesh. These mangoes boast a sweet and mellow flavor, making them a favorite for both eating raw and using in various mango-based delicacies. Their popularity extends beyond India’s borders, with many international enthusiasts eagerly awaiting their arrival each summer.
4. Dasheri Mango:
Originating from the village of Dasheri in Uttar Pradesh, this fragrant and juicy mango variety is celebrated for its delectable taste and aroma. Dasheri mangoes are small to medium-sized, with pale yellow skin and a rich, velvety texture. Their sweetness and slight tartness make them perfect for making mouthwatering mango desserts and preserves.
5. Langra Mango:
Named after the lame “Langra” (crippled) person who discovered it, this mango variety from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, has a unique taste and appearance. Langra mangoes are medium-sized with green skin and juicy, fiberless, and sweet flesh. Their distinct flavor profile sets them apart from other varieties and makes them a favorite among mango aficionados.
6. Himsagar Mango:
From the picturesque landscapes of West Bengal, the Himsagar mango reigns supreme with its deliciously sweet, juicy, and non-fibrous pulp. These mangoes have a greenish-yellow skin with a reddish tinge and are perfect for indulging in refreshing mango shakes and smoothies during scorching summers.
7. Totapuri Mango:
Distinguished by its distinct beak-like shape, Totapuri mangoes are widely cultivated in the southern states of India, particularly in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. These mangoes have a unique blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making them an ideal choice for savory mango chutneys and pickles.
8. Neelam Mango:
Grown in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Neelam mangoes are known for their small to medium size, smooth skin, and vibrant yellow flesh. They have a delightful aroma and a rich, sweet flavor, which makes them a favorite for both direct consumption and culinary applications.
9. Sindura Mango:
Sindura mangoes, native to Odisha, have a distinct reddish hue on the top, which gives them their name (“Sindura” means vermilion). Beneath the beautiful skin lies sweet and juicy flesh, making them a must-try for mango enthusiasts seeking something visually appealing and flavorful.
10. Mulgoba Mango:
Originating from Tamil Nadu, Mulgoba mangoes are one of the oldest and most revered varieties in India. Their large size, golden-yellow skin, and delightful sweetness have won the hearts of mango connoisseurs for centuries. The exquisite taste of Mulgoba mangoes is best enjoyed by relishing them in their natural form.
Final Thoughts:
As we celebrate National Mango Day in 2023, embarking on a journey through India’s diverse and exotic mango varieties is an adventure worth undertaking. Each region contributes its unique flavors and aromas to the array of desi mangoes, making this fruit a quintessential part of India’s cultural and gastronomic heritage.
From the regal Alphonso mango to the vibrant Sindura mango, each variety offers a distinct taste that tantalizes the taste buds and captures the essence of Indian summers. Whether enjoyed fresh, blended into refreshing beverages, or used in traditional recipes, desi mangoes add a touch of sweetness and joy to every culinary creation.
So, on this auspicious occasion, let us savor the sweetness of India by indulging in these ten exotic desi mango varieties. Embrace the rich legacy of this glorious fruit and celebrate National Mango Day 2023 with an abundance of juicy delights!
