What’s this then?

Mango is a fragrant, soft and meaty fruit native to South Asia, where the ‘common’ or ‘Indian’ variety grows abundantly on tall trees.

Mangoes can be a bit tricky with work with when not fully ripe so, similarly to avocado, they should feel slightly soft when given a squeeze. The common variety of mango is known for its bright yellow flesh, reddish skin and tantalising fragrance, although other Mangifera species can vary greatly in size and colour.

What does it taste like?

Although the taste can vary depending on what variety you eat, mangoes generally have a very sweet taste and when ripe and are incredibly juicy. Their unique taste cannot be compared to other fruits, which is why the mango is so highly valued across many countries.

Why should I start eating it?

Beyond its beautiful flavour, mangoes have many health benefits which often go unnoticed. In historic times, mango was used to help stomach issues because, similarly to the papaya, they contain enzymes that can aid the digestive process and eliminate excess acidity.

Mangoes are also a good source of beta carotene, more notably associated with carrots, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A can aid cell repair and contribute towards a healthy immune system, and also play a vital role in good eye health.

Best of all, because mangoes are produced in so many countries around the globe, they are readily available all year round!

What kind of dishes can I use it in?

While usually eaten on its own or as part of a fruit salad, mango is a very versatile ingredient and can be used both in sweet and savoury dishes. Due to the enzymes they contain, mangoes act as a natural tenderiser for meats and poultry and make a great addition to a marinade.

Although usually something we tend to buy in a jar, mango chutney is very easy to make, lasts for months in the cupboard, and is delicious with curries, chicken or fish. Mangoes also make a terrific addition to a smoothie or blended with milk or yoghurt to make a mango lassi, a popular drink in India.

Okay, I’m sold. Give me a few recipes to get started with.

Mango is perfectly delicious eaten on its own with a squeeze of lime, but if you’re looking for something that showcases this special fruit in a more unusual way, check out these recipes:

• Super Simple Mango Chutney, from Wanderlust Kitchen
• Restaurant-style Mango Lassi, from Sandhya’s Kitchen
• Mango Lime Pudding, from From The Larder
• Lamb steak with Spicy Mango Salsa, from The Wonky Spatula
• Tofu and mango curry, from The Full Helping

More: What to do with… fresh, ripe and creamy avocado>