Different Types of Mangoes in India
India, renowned for its rich and diverse flora, is equally famous for its variety of mangoes. The mango, often referred to as the “king of fruits,” holds a special place in Indian culture and cuisine. With the arrival of mango season, which typically runs from April to June, fruit enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the variety of flavors and textures that Indian mangoes have to offer. This article explores the different types of mangoes in India, highlighting their unique characteristics and regional significance.
1. Alphonso Mango (Hapus)
The Alphonso mango, also known as Hapus is arguably the most celebrated mango variety in India. Originating from the Ratnagiri region of Maharashtra, Alphonso is famous for its rich, sweet flavor and creamy texture. Its bright yellow skin, which can sometimes show a hint of green, encases a deep orange flesh that is both aromatic and succulent. Alphonso mangoes are often considered the gold standard for mangoes due to their superior taste and quality.
2. Kesar Mango
The Kesar mango hails from the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. It is renowned for its sweet and slightly tangy flavor, along with its bright orange color. The Kesar mango is known for its small to medium size and its distinct aroma. The flesh is firm and fibrous, making it ideal for making mango-based desserts and beverages. The Kesar mango is often enjoyed fresh or used in making mango ice creams and lassis.
3. Dasheri Mango
Dasheri mangoes are predominantly grown in the North Indian states of Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. This variety is recognized for its sweet, tangy flavor and juicy, fiberless flesh. The Dasheri mango is typically medium to large in size, with a greenish-yellow skin that turns golden as it ripens. This variety is widely enjoyed for its taste and is often used in making mango chutneys and pickles.
4. Langra Mango
The Langra mango is a traditional variety that is primarily cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of Madhya Pradesh. Langra mangoes are known for their distinctive green skin, which remains green even when ripe. The flesh is smooth, sweet, and fibrous, with a slightly tangy taste. Langra mangoes are often enjoyed fresh and are also used in making mango-based beverages and desserts.
5. Banganapalli Mango
Banganapalli mangoes also known as Banana mangoes are a popular variety from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. These mangoes are large, with a yellowish skin and sweet, non-fibrous flesh. The flavor is mildly sweet with a hint of tartness, making it a favorite choice for making mango salads, juices, and salsas. Banganapalli mangoes are known for their high yield and long shelf life.
6. Chausa Mango
The Chausa mango is another premium variety, mainly grown in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Punjab. It is celebrated for its intense sweetness and aromatic fragrance. The Chausa mango has a rich, golden-yellow flesh with minimal fiber, making it incredibly smooth and delicious. This variety is often considered a luxury mango due to its exquisite taste and is highly sought after in both domestic and international markets.
7. Himsagar Mango
Himsagar mangoes are predominantly grown in West Bengal and parts of Orissa. This variety is known for its exceptionally sweet and fragrant flavor. The flesh is golden-yellow, smooth, and fiberless, offering a delightful eating experience. Himsagar mangoes are prized for their taste and are often consumed fresh or used in traditional Bengali sweets and desserts.
8. Raspuri Mango
Raspuri mangoes are widely grown in Karnataka and parts of Andhra Pradesh. This variety is characterized by its small to medium size and unique taste that balances sweetness with a slight tartness. The skin is yellowish-green, and the flesh is juicy and fibrous. Raspuri mangoes are enjoyed fresh and are also used in making pickles and sauces.
9. Sindhura Mango
The Sindhura mango also known as Sindhura is cultivated in parts of Karnataka and Maharashtra. It is known for its small size, red skin, and sweet, tangy flavor. The flesh is bright orange and has a smooth texture. Sindhura mangoes are valued for their distinct taste and are often used in making mango salads and desserts.
10. Totapuri Mango
Totapuri mangoes are grown in the southern states of India, including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. This variety is recognized for its unique parrot-beak shape and greenish-yellow skin. The flesh is firm and mildly tangy, making it ideal for making mango pickles and juices. Totapuri mangoes are also used in traditional dishes and as a flavoring in various recipes.
Conclusion
India's diverse climatic conditions and soil types contribute to the cultivation of a wide array of mango varieties, each with its unique flavor, texture, and aroma. From the creamy sweetness of Alphonso to the tangy bite of Totapuri, the different types of mangoes in India offer something for every palate. Whether enjoyed fresh, in desserts, or as part of traditional recipes, Indian mangoes continue to captivate fruit lovers both within the country and around the world.

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