Brace yourselves, mango enthusiasts! Buckle up for a juicy adventure into the heart of India, the undisputed king of mangoes. This land boasts a staggering array of over 500 mango varieties, each a symphony of flavour and aroma. But fret not, for we’ve handpicked 10 of the most magnificent mangoes, each a jewel waiting to be unveiled.
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a diverse selection, from the king himself, the Alphonso, to hidden gems like the Langra and the buttery Mulgoba. So, take a bite and embark on a delightful journey through India’s mango mania!
The Alphonso (Hapus) – The King of Mangoes (Ratnagiri, Maharashtra)
Ah, the Alphonso, also known as the Hapus. This is the undisputed champion, the Usain Bolt of the mango world. Grown in the coastal Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, Alphonsos are coveted for their perfect balance of sweetness and a subtle tartness. The flesh is a glorious golden yellow, impossibly soft, and explodes with flavour in your mouth. The Alphonso’s fame is legendary, and it’s often the most expensive mango variety, a true testament to its regal status.
More Read
The Badami – A Sweet Surprise (Karnataka)
Hailing from the sun-drenched lands of Karnataka, the Badami mango is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Unlike the Alphonso’s bold sweetness, the Badami offers a more subtle, well-rounded flavour profile. The flesh is a beautiful saffron colour, firm yet juicy, and possesses a unique aroma that’s both sweet and slightly floral. This mango is perfect for those who appreciate a more delicate taste and is often enjoyed sliced or in refreshing aam panna (a tangy mango drink).
The Chaunsa – The King of Size (Bihar and Uttar Pradesh)
If size truly matters, then the Chaunsa mango is royalty. This behemoth can grow up to 1.5 kg, making it a true showstopper. Cultivated in the fertile plains of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, the Chaunsa boasts a vibrant orange peel and a deep yellow flesh that’s incredibly sweet and juicy. The texture is slightly fibrous, and the flavour is intense, leaving a lingering sweetness on your palate.
The Langra – The Luscious One (Bihar and Uttar Pradesh)
Sharing its origins with the Chaunsa, the Langra is a delightful contrast. This medium-sized mango is known for its oblong shape and a stunning greenish-yellow peel. The flesh is a pale yellow, incredibly juicy, and has a fibrous texture. But the true star of the show is the flavour. The Langra offers a burst of sweet and tangy citrus notes, making it a refreshing and addictive treat.
The Dasheri – The Versatile Delight (Malihabad, Uttar Pradesh)
The Dasheri mango, hailing from the fabled orchards of Malihabad in Uttar Pradesh, is a crowd-pleaser. This medium-sized fruit has a bright yellow peel and a luscious golden yellow flesh. The sweetness is balanced with a hint of tartness, making it perfect for eating fresh or using in various culinary creations. From sweet chutneys to creamy mango lassi, the Dasheri’s versatility makes it a beloved ingredient in many Indian kitchens.
The Kesar – The Saffron Sensation (Saurashtra, Gujarat)
Get ready for a taste of pure sunshine with the Kesar mango. Grown in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, this vibrantly coloured mango has a bright yellow peel with a blush of red. The flesh is a deep yellow, almost saffron-like, and boasts an incredibly sweet and intense flavour. The texture is smooth and melt-in-your-mouth, making it a truly luxurious eating experience.
The Mulgoba – The Buttery Bliss (Tamil Nadu)
Travel down south to Tamil Nadu and discover the Mulgoba mango, a unique treasure. This medium-sized fruit has a greenish-yellow peel and a deep yellow flesh with a distinct orange hue. But the magic lies in the texture. The Mulgoba has an incredibly soft, almost buttery flesh that melts in your mouth. The flavour is sweet and creamy, with a hint of floral notes, making it a truly decadent treat.
The Himsagar – The Pride of Bengal (West Bengal)
Grown in West Bengal, the Himsagar boasts a golden yellow skin and a fibrous flesh that’s incredibly sweet.It is an early season variety. Himsagar ripens in May and it is available in the market from the second week of May to the end of June. It is also known as Khirsapati.
The Imam Pasand: South India’s Sweetheart
Venturing south, we discover the Imam Pasand mango, a beloved fruit across South India. This heart-shaped charmer is cloaked in a greenish-yellow skin with prominent red blush. Take a bite, and you’ll be captivated by its incredibly sweet flesh, boasting a soft and fibrous texture.
The Banganapalli: The Andhra Jewel
Venturing south, we arrive in Andhra Pradesh, where the Banganapalli mango awaits. Often crowned the “Pride of Andhra,” this gem is known for its oblong shape and vibrant yellow skin. Slice into it, and you’ll discover a treasure trove of juicy, orange-coloured flesh. The Banganapalli offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, with a distinct floral aroma that adds to its allure.
Did You Know?: Banganapalli mangoes are named after the village of Banganapalle in Andhra Pradesh, where they were first cultivated.
