What are Mangoes?
Mangoes are a tropical fruit that is native to South Asia. They are widely cultivated in many parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Mangoes are known for their sweet, juicy flesh and distinctive tropical flavor. They are a popular fruit that is used in many different dishes, including desserts, smoothies, and savory dishes.
Scientific Name: The scientific name of the mango is Mangifera indica.
Other Names: Mangoes are also known as the king of fruits, and are called by different names in different countries. In India, they are known as Aam, while in Mexico, they are called Mangoes.
Habitat: Mango trees are grown in tropical and subtropical regions, and require warm temperatures to thrive. They are most commonly found in Southeast Asia, but are also grown in many other parts of the world, India, Mexico, Brazil, and the Caribbean.
Description: Mangoes are a large, oval-shaped fruit that can range in size from small to very large. They have a tough outer skin that is usually green, but can also be yellow, red, or orange. The flesh of the mango is yellow-orange and is soft and juicy. The fruit contains a large, flat, oval-shaped seed in the center.
Status: Mangoes are a natural fruit and are not genetically modified but has been bybridized.
Species of mango
List of known species
There are over 400 known species of mangoes. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Tommy Atkins
- Ataulfo
- Haden
- Kent
- Keitt
Wild species of mangoes
The wild ancestor of the mango is believed to be Mangifera sylvatica, which is native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia.
There are however several wild species of mangoes besides Mangifera sylvatica, which is considered to be the ancestor of the cultivated mango. Some of the other wild species of mangoes include Mangifera laurina, Mangifera odorata, and Mangifera pentandra. These wild species are found in different regions of the world, including Southeast Asia, Australia, and Africa. While they are not commonly cultivated for commercial use, they are sometimes used for breeding programs to develop new varieties of mangoes with desirable traits.
There are many different varieties of wild mangoes, which are typically found growing in the tropical regions of Africa and Asia. Here are some examples:
1. Bitter mango (Mangifera indica): Also known as the Indian mango, this is the most commonly cultivated mango species, but it can also be found growing wild in India, Bangladesh, and Southeast Asia. The fruit is typically large and oblong with a greenish-yellow skin and a sour, bitter taste.
2. Wild mango (Irvingia gabonensis): This species is native to West and Central Africa, and its fruit is prized for its edible flesh and seeds. The fruit is small and oval-shaped, with a greenish-yellow skin and a sweet, juicy flavor.
3. Horse mango (Mangifera foetida): This species is found growing wild in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia, and its fruit is known for its strong, pungent smell. The fruit is small and round with a greenish-yellow skin and a fibrous, juicy flesh.
4. Yellow mango (Mangifera pajang): This species is native to Borneo and other parts of Southeast Asia, and its fruit is small and round with a yellow skin and a sweet, juicy flavor.
5. Kuini mango (Mangifera odorata): This species is found growing wild in Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia, and its fruit is small and oval-shaped with a greenish-yellow skin and a sweet, aromatic flavor.
6. Cat mango (Mangifera caesia): Also known as the jack mango, this species is native to Southeast Asia and its fruit is prized for its sweet, juicy flavor. The fruit is small and oblong with a greenish-yellow skin and a thin layer of flesh surrounding a large seed.
It’s important to note that many of these wild mango species are not widely cultivated and may be difficult to find outside of their native regions.
Benefits of mangoes
Mineral content (nutrition)
Mangoes are a rich source of minerals, including potassium. They also contain smaller amounts of calcium, iron, and magnesium.
Medicinal value
Mangoes have been used for their medicinal properties for centuries. They are believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to protect against chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Mangoes are also a good source of fiber, which can help to promote digestive health.
Culinary uses
Mangoes are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are often eaten fresh, either on their own or in salads. Mangoes are also used to make smoothies, juices, and desserts such as mango sorbet. In savory dishes, mangoes are used to add sweetness and tropical flavor to dishes such as mango salsa, and stir-fries.
Research information
Studies have shown that mangoes may have a range of health benefits, including:
- Anti-inflammatory properties – mangoes contain compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antioxidant properties – mangoes are rich in antioxidants, which may help to protect against chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
- Digestive health – the fiber in mangoes can help to promote digestive health and reduce the risk of constipation.
- Immune system support – mangoes can help to support a healthy immune system.
Mango Recipes
Here are some popular recipes that use mangoes:
- Mango salsa – a fresh and flavorful salsa made with chopped mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.
- Mango smoothie – a refreshing drink made with fresh mango, other fruits, and ice.
Mango Salsa
Ingredients:
2 ripe mangos, peeled and diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro.
2. Add the lime juice and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Mango Coconut Smoothie
Ingredients:
1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped mango, coconut milk, Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and ice cubes.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
References
– USDA FoodData Central: Mangoes, raw
– National Mango Board: Mango Varieties
– Healthline: 12 Health Benefits of Mangoes
– The Spruce Eats: The 10 Best Mango Recipes for Every Meal
– Britannica: Mango
