When it comes to choosing mangoes, many people prefer larger fruits. However, mango growers suggest that not all big mangoes are equally tasty, with some having thicker flesh and less fibrous seeds. If you want to buy delicious mangoes, keep in mind these four simple tips outlined below.

1. Observe the black spots

While some mangoes boast a vibrant yellow color, others display black spots on their skin. According to growers, fresh, ripe mangoes often have a few small black spots on their skin, which does not affect the quality of the pulp inside. In fact, mangoes with these small spots tend to be the sweetest and most flavorful.

On the other hand, mangoes with numerous large, dark, and bumpy spots should be avoided. These mangoes have likely started to rot and ferment to varying degrees, and it’s best not to consume them.

If you’re purchasing ripe mangoes, opt for those with a bright yellow color or those with a few scattered black spots, and plan to eat them within 1-2 days as they are at their peak ripeness and shouldn’t be kept for too long.

2. Examine the shape

Mangoes typically come in two basic shapes. One type has a larger, rounder top, with fuller cheeks that yield more flesh. The other type has a more elongated body, tends to be thinner and longer, and generally has less flesh.

When buying mangoes, opt for those with a rounder, more spherical shape, where the cheeks are plumped up, as these will provide you with more flesh to enjoy.

3. Observe the color

This method doesn’t apply to green mangoes, so we’re primarily focusing on ripe, yellow mangoes here. Typically, when buying mangoes, you’ll come across fruits of the same variety displaying different shades, from green to yellow to a mix of both. This is because mangoes, being tropical fruits, are usually picked and transported while still unripe.

The greener mangoes are obviously less ripe, while those with a dull yellow color have likely been sitting around for a while, and it’s best to avoid them. Ripe mangoes have a bright yellow hue, with a shiny and smooth skin.

4. Smell the mangoes

Ripe mangoes have an incredibly delicious and distinctive aroma that’s hard to miss. If you pick up a mango and it fills your senses with its sweet fragrance, it’s likely at the perfect stage of ripeness.

On the other hand, mangoes that appear bright yellow but lack any aroma have likely been forced to ripen and won’t taste as good.

5. Test the mangoes’ firmness

Gently press your finger into the mango. If it feels slightly springy, it means the mango is still moist, fresh, and tasty. If it feels hard, it’s unripe and will taste sour. Mangoes that have been sitting for too long will leave a noticeable dent when pressed, so avoid those as well.

You may also like

How to Tell if a Tomato is Ripe and Ready to Eat: A Natural Guide

With this simple tip, you can easily tell the difference between a naturally ripened tomato and one that has been chemically ripened.

“The Great Cucumber Conundrum: Straight or Curved, Which is the Safer Pick?”

The shape of a cucumber is a tell-tale sign of its taste and quality.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying Oranges: 4 Tips for Choosing the Juiciest, Sweetest Fruit

When it comes to choosing the perfect orange, there are a few key things to look out for. By keeping an eye on these simple factors, you’ll be able to select the juiciest, most mouth-wateringly sweet oranges every time.

The Ultimate Guide to Selecting the Tastiest and Safest Sunflower Seeds for the Holidays

When it comes to buying sunflower seeds for the holidays, we’ve all been there: purchasing what we think are fresh, delicious seeds, only to find they’re of poor quality and potentially harmful to our health. So, how can we ensure we’re making a smart purchase that’s both tasty and safe?

The Secret to Selecting the Perfect Eggplant: A Whiter Shade of Purple

Observe the aubergine’s majestic stance, its regal purple hue, and imagine the culinary delights it could inspire. This humble vegetable, with its unique shape and vibrant color, is a true star in the kitchen, offering endless creative possibilities for the discerning chef.