The mango was cultivated in India more than 4,000 years ago and has virtually become the national fruit there. The mango has now spread throughout the tropical and subtropical regions and is even grown in southern Europe.
Where does the mango originally come from?
Mangos originally come from India and are now grown in tropical and subtropical areas such as Asia, Central and South America, Africa, the Caribbean, Israel, Australia and southern Europe. The main producer with around 75% of world production is Asia.
Where does the mango in the supermarket come from?
The mango is mainly grown in tropical and subtropical areas. The main growing areas are large parts of Asia, Central and South America, Africa, the Caribbean, Israel and Australia. But mangoes are now also being grown in Europe, for example in Spain, or more precisely in the Canary Islands. Around 75 percent of world production of mangoes comes from Asia.
Some mango growing areas:
- India
- Philippines
- Pakistan
- Brazil
- Mexico
- USA
- Africa
- Spain
Are there different types of mangoes?
There are many different types of mangoes, both wild and cultivated. They differ not only in shape and color but also significantly in size and taste.
Each growing region usually has its own preferred type of mango. Indian mangoes are usually a beautiful yellow, sometimes with a red tinge or reddish spots. The Filipino mangoes, on the other hand, remain green even when they are ripe. Deep red firm mangoes probably come from Brazil, they are still unripe, even if they don't look like it.
Uses of mango
Mangos are ideal for eating raw. They can therefore be easily used in an exotic fruit salad. However, only ripe mangoes taste really good. Ripe mangoes can be easily pressed with your finger and smell very aromatic. They often have small dark spots on the shell.
Mangos can also be made into chutneys, jam or compote. In India they are part of many different dishes and are an integral part of the kitchen. Why not use it to refine a sauce or curry?The fine acidity harmonizes perfectly with a slight spiciness.
Tips & Tricks
Only buy ripe mangoes, otherwise the delicate mango could rot before it ripens sufficiently.