How To Cut and Serve Mango Like A Pro

The fresh excellence and taste of a mango in a summer dish—yum. It brings a meal together no matter how savory or sweet. Ice cream? Absolutely. Pork chops? Yes, please. Mango is a delicious, welcome guest to almost any plate. But the real question is: how do we cut this thing? Let’s take a look at some of our options. 

HOW TO REMOVE THE PIT AND CUT A MANGO

Much like an avocado, the pit inside the mango is not something you want to eat. So, to cut the pit (also called a stone) out of the mango:  

1. Place your mango on a nonslip cutting mat or cutting board. Find the stem and point it upward.  
2. Using a paring knife, slice vertically along both sides of the stem, leaving roughly a ½-inch section in the middle.  
3. Next, take one of the sides and make lengthwise and crosswise cuts on each, creating a checkered pattern. Repeat on the other side.  
4. Then, using your knife or a large spoon, push the skin inward and slice or scoop the chunks from each of the two halves.  
5. Returning to the pit, use your knife and cut the skin away from the fruit. Then, cut away any remaining mango until the pit is revealed. 
6. Enjoy! 

HOW TO PEEL A MANGO

Peeling off the mango skin using a peeler is another way to keep the integrity of the mango shape. You may have to peel over the same area multiple times to reveal the bright yellow-orange of the inner mango.

HOW TO CUT A MANGO WITH A CUP

Another option is the cup method, which is ideal when your mango is perfectly ripe. A round drinking glass or pint glass will work wonders here. Bonus points if you’re using the same glass to enjoy a smoothie afterward! 

• Using the same technique as above, cut lengthwise along both sides of the stem and use the lip of a cup to scoop out the mango from each of the two halves.  
• Start with the bottom of the mango against the top of the cup and slowly contour the glass against the inside of the mango skin. Presto!
• Now you can slice, dice or enjoy the mango whole. 

HOW TO EAT AND ENJOY MANGO

It takes two to tango, but just a yearning appetite to mango. Whether you’re aiming to freshen up a savory meal or need a tasty midday snack, our library of recipes will guide your taste buds to a heavenly place. 

BEST MANGO RECIPES

Here are a handful of mango recipes to get you started in your new wheelhouse: 

• Shrimp Skewers with Spiced Mango Wraps: Having a few friends over for apps and drinks? These shrimp skewers with spiced mango wraps are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. 
• Pineapple Mango Sorbet: It’s never too late to get into creating your own sorbet. A healthier alternative to ice cream with a burst of mango flavor can help satiate that late-night sugar binge. 
• Mango and Chipotle Chili Guacamole: Tired of your go-to guacamole recipe and want to show up to the barbecue with a stunner? This mix of sweet mango and savory chipotle chili will send a signal to the whole party that you’re crushing the guacamole game. 
• Mango Delight Smoothie: What do you do with that overripe mango? Don’t throw it away! Check out this Mango Delight Smoothie. Enjoyed best in the sun, after a workout or in the middle of a stressful day.  
• Salmon Mango Poke Bowl: Add a new entrée to the recipe rotation. When you’re looking for a treat without breaking the bank, celebrate with the Salmon Mango Poke Bowl. 

HOW TO KNOW WHEN A MANGO IS RIPE

You can tell a mango is ripe with a gentle squeeze. If it’s soft and has a bit of give, that should indicate the mango is ripe and ready to eat. If you squeeze a mango and it feels hard like a lime, it needs a bit more time.  

HOW TO STORE A MANGO

Mangoes should be ripened at room temperature, then stored in a refrigerator until ready to use.  

HOW LONG DO MANGOES LAST IN THE FRIDGE?

Mangoes can be stored for about 4–5 days once they’ve reached ripeness.  

CAN I FREEZE A MANGO?

You sure can. When you freeze mangoes for smoothies, jellies and sauces, you’ll extend the life of a mango much longer than if you had kept them in the fridge. Slice or cube mangoes before freezing, as it’s easier to add them to a smoothie in chunks. 

WHEN ARE MANGOES IN SEASON?

Typically, the best season for fresh mangoes in the US is between May and September.