Summer Special: Recipes Using Mangoes in Desserts
Introduction to Mangoes
Mangoes, often hailed as the “king of fruits,” are tropical stone fruits known for their sweet, juicy flesh and unique flavour. They belong to the Mangifera genus and are native to South Asia, where they have been cultivated for thousands of years. Mangoes are not only delicious but also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. There are hundreds of varieties of mangoes, each with its distinctive taste, shape, and colour, ranging from vibrant yellow and orange to green and red. Mangoes are not only enjoyed fresh but also used in various culinary dishes, such as salads, smoothies, desserts, and even savoury dishes
Origin Of Mangoes
Mangoes are believed to have originated in South Asia, specifically in the region that includes eastern India, Myanmar (Burma), and Bangladesh. The fruit has been cultivated in these areas for over 4,000 years. From there, mango cultivation spread to other parts of Asia, including the Philippines and Malaysia, and eventually to other tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Today, mangoes are grown in many countries with suitable climates, including India, Pakistan, Thailand, Mexico, and the Philippines, among others.
Health Benefits of Mangoes
Mangoes offer a range of health benefits due to their rich nutrient content. Here are some key benefits:
1. Rich in Nutrients: Mangoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, and a range of B vitamins. They also contain minerals like potassium, magnesium, and copper.
2. High in Antioxidants: Mangoes are rich in antioxidants like mangiferin, which can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
3. Boost Immunity: The high vitamin C content in mangoes can help boost the immune system and protect against infections.
4. Support Digestive Health: Mangoes contain dietary fibre and enzymes like amylases, which can aid digestion and promote gut health.
5. May Help Lower Cholesterol: Some studies suggest that compounds in mangoes may help lower cholesterol levels, which can benefit heart health.
6. Promote Skin Health: The vitamin A and vitamin C in mangoes can help promote healthy skin and may even help reduce signs of ageing.
7. May Help Regulate Blood Sugar: Despite their natural sweetness, mangoes have a low glycemic index and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
It’s important to note that while mangoes offer numerous health benefits, they should be consumed as part of a balanced diet and in moderation, especially for those watching their sugar intake.
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Uses of Mangoes In Indian Kitchen
Mangoes are a versatile fruit used in various ways in Indian cuisine. Here are some common uses:
- Fresh Consumption: Ripe mangoes are often eaten as a fruit, either on their own or in fruit salads.
- Mango Lassi: A popular drink made with ripe mangoes, yoghurt, milk, and sugar, blended to a smooth consistency.
- Mango Pickle: Raw mangoes are used to make a variety of pickles, both sweet and savoury, that are enjoyed as condiments with meals.
- Curries and Chutneys: Raw or ripe mangoes are used to make delicious curries, chutneys, and sauces that accompany main dishes.
- Desserts: Mangoes are used in a variety of desserts, such as mango pudding, mango ice cream, and mango kulfi (a type of Indian ice cream).
- Mango Rice: A popular South Indian dish made with cooked rice, grated raw mango, and spices.
- Mango Shrikhand: A sweet dish made with strained yoghurt, sugar, and ripe mango puree, often flavoured with cardamom and saffron.
- Mango Juice: Ripe mangoes are often juiced and enjoyed as a refreshing drink.
These are just a few examples of how mangoes are used in Indian kitchens. The fruit’s sweet and tangy flavour adds a unique taste to both sweet and savoury dishes, making it a versatile ingredient in Indian cooking.
6 Recipes Using Mangoes In Desserts
RECIPE 1] Mango Sorbet
RECIPE 2] Mango Cheesecake
RECIPE 3] Mango Coconut Rice Pudding
RECIPE 4] Mango Mousse
RECIPE 5] Mango Phirni
RECIPE 6] Mango Kulfi
Conclusion
In conclusion, mangoes are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of delicious dessert recipes. Whether you’re making a refreshing sorbet, a creamy cheesecake, or a traditional Indian sweet like phirni or kulfi, mangoes add a unique flavour and texture to desserts that are hard to resist. With their natural sweetness and nutritional benefits, mangoes are not only a tasty treat but also a healthy addition to your diet. So go ahead, indulge in these mango dessert recipes and enjoy the tropical goodness of this “king of fruits”.
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About the author
Dr. Kaviraj Khialani, celebrity master chef is a Mumbai based food and hospitality consultant. He is specialised in over 33 plus international cuisines & is a two times national award winner for his excellence in his field of expertise. Chef Kaviraj has worked with some of the reputed hotel chains & airline companies in India & Overseas. He is a renowned academician, food designer & author- writer on food and culinary features, besides having been featured on Colors Television & Star plus he loves trying global fusion cooking promoting Indian food on an international platter for the diaspora.
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