All about Mangos!
Mangos (or Mangoes)
Mangos, a stone fruit, are in the cashew family and from a tropical tree. It is a native of South Asia and worldwide is the most widely cultivated fruit in the tropics. Mangos are the national fruit of India, Pakistan and the Philippines, and the national tree of Bangladesh. Mangos have been cultivated for thousands of years in most frost-free tropical and warmer subtropical climates.
Mangos arrived in South Florida over 200 years ago. They grow best in Southern Florida. Today there are many varieties of mangos in Florida. The favorite for a backyard tree in is the “Haden” variety.
Ripe mangos have an orange-yellow or reddish peel and are juicy for eating. They are a good source of vitamin C, have a variety of nutrients and full of fiber. A whole mango has 201 calories. You can eat mangos raw, add to cereal, use in chutneys and salsas, make juices and smoothies, and even make mango ice cream.
A favorite recipe of friends and family is Mango Salsa. It’s easy to make and goes well with grilled blackened pork tenderloin or grilled chicken. Also is a great salsa with chips.
Mango Salsa
Serves 4 as an accompaniment.
Ingredients:
- 1 mango, peeled & diced
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon jalapeno, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons cilantro (optional)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (1 large lime)
Method:
Mix all ingredients together.
Chill for one hour. Stir before serving.
A colorful and cool treat for your next summer picnic or barbeque!
(Recipe courtesy of Patrizia Travels.) 