Bonafide Urban Chick

It is summer, and how could we not include the great Mango in our explorations? Read on to get some great info about the Mangifera, mango, the king of fruits!

No Indian, whether living in the remotest corner of India or in any other part of the word, has escaped from the love of mangoes. Even nationals from other countries have fallen in love with this sinfully, lustfully, delicious fruit. Originating from South asia, there are other parts of the world where now mangoes are cultivated. However, the taste of the Indian mangoes is incomparable by any other!

Ahmedabadis love mangoes. This is a fact so well known that it often need not even be said. So, if you are in the city at this time in the year, we strongly suggest that you take this opportunity and gorge on the fruit like never before.

Types

There are many types like alphonso, payri, langda, badam, rajapuri, tota, batli, devgadh and kesar, available in India.

The season normally starts with raw mangoes making an entry in the market. These raw mangoes are used for making pickles, chutneys and marmalades. Rajapuri mangoes are most popular for these purposes due to their size, skin density and taste.

Then the Gola mangoes pour in. they are slightly tangy and great for juicing. Soon after the Gola mangoes, the other types creep into the market. Bandam, payri, langda, totapuri, batli,and devgadh are the ones in the medium price range that are popular for having as pulp. Badam mango is great for cutting and eating too. Alphonso mangoes also come into the market around this time. These are the most expensive type of mangoes and can be consumed in all possible ways. Alphonso mangoes are also used for making jams and culinary delicacies in various parts of the country.

Last to enter the mango market are the Kesar mangoes. Kesar mangoes are also known as the Queesn of mangoes and are second only to alphonso when it comes to taste, texture, price and popularity. The Kesar mangoes are the ones that one will find in the market till the very end of the mango crop season.

Some select farms cultivate the fruit till July. However, the major chunk of the crop is cultivated till may, which is the peak heat season and perfect for the harvest of the fruit. Post that, the quality and quantity of the fruit produce decreases.

Myths and Legends

Did you know that the Mango tree, in India, is considered to be a symbol of love? In many parts of the country, the mango tree is believed to have special powers to grant wishes. Most people personally find mangoes to be an aphrodisiac. The very fragrance of the fruit is known to make a person feel better about themselves and everything that surrounds them.

In Indian culture it is common to have the family sit together and eat puris with aamras. In fact, for hard core lovers, aamras is an accompaniment in every meal, irrespective of what else may have been prepared. And why not, Mangoes are healthy and contain Vitamin A, C, fibre and potassium. Not only does this fruit help keep blood pressure in check but also boosts immunity and helps strengthen bones. So the next time someone stops you from eating mangoes because they are “fatty” tell them you are getting stronger bones in the bargain!

I could go on and on about the fruit, but I have to admit, I am already salivating, craving a bite of the delicious fruit. So, while I go and satisfy the craving, you carry on and do the same.