Introduction
Do you struggle with cutting a mango? You are not alone. Mangoes have a tough outer skin and a large pit that can be challenging to remove. In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions and tips to help you cut a mango like a pro.
The purpose of this article is to assist beginners in cutting a mango for the very first time.
Step-by-Step Guide
Selecting a Ripe Mango
The first step in cutting a mango is to select a ripe mango. To check if a mango is ripe, gently press it with your fingers. If it is ripe, it should give slightly. Ripe mangoes will also have a fragrant smell and a yellow or orange color.
Tools Needed
To cut a mango, you will need a cutting board, a sharp knife, and a spoon.
Cutting Method #1: Top-Down Method
Step 1: Stand the mango upright with the stem facing upwards.
Step 2: Using your knife, slice down one side of the mango along the seed.
Step 3: Repeat Step 2 on the other side of the mango.
Step 4: Cut parallel slices into the mango flesh without piercing the skin.
Step 5: Score the mango flesh in a crosshatch pattern.
Step 6: Flip the mango inside out and slice off the cubes using your spoon.
Cutting Method #2: Side-by-Side Method
Step 1: Stand the mango upright with the stem facing upwards.
Step 2: Cut the two cheeks of the mango off the fruit, avoiding the seed.
Step 3: Score the mango flesh in a crosshatch pattern.
Step 4: Flip the mango cheeks inside out and slice off the cubes using your spoon.
Cutting Method #3: Alternative Methods
There are a few alternate ways to cut a mango such as the hedgehog or flower method. Simply score the mango cheeks without cutting through the skin and then push inwards on the skin, and the fruit will pop up creating a hedgehog or a flower shape.
Safely Slicing Around the Seed
Cutting close to the seed can be tricky. To safely slice around the seed, stand the mango on its end and use a sharp knife. Place the knife just to the side of where the seed is and slice downwards, following the curve of the seed until you reach the other side. Repeat on the other side of the seed for the remaining flesh.
Conclusion for This Section
These are different cutting methods to cut a mango. To guarantee success, ensure your mango is ripe, have the essential tools, and keep in mind safety when dealing with the pit.
Quick and Easy
The top-down and side-by-side cutting methods are quick and easy. To cut a mango using these methods, peel the mango and slice off the cheeks. Then score the flesh and flip the cheeks inside out. Slice off the cubes with a spoon.
Conclusion for This Section
Using these methods saves time and does not require any complicated tools or techniques.
Video Tutorial
For a hands-on approach, watch this step-by-step video tutorial on how to cut a mango.
Conclusion for This Section
Watching a video on an activity can be a valuable tool for learning fast and efficiently.
Serving Ideas
Mango is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes such as salads, smoothies, and salsa.
Serving Suggestions
-
Add diced mango to your favorite salad for an extra sweet touch. This healthy and colorful recipe of Mango Avocado Salad is an amazing burst of flavor.
-
Blend chopped mango with yogurt, milk, honey, and vanilla ice cream to make a tropical smoothie.
-
Make a homemade salsa using mango, fresh tomatoes, onion, lime juice, and cilantro. It pairs well with chicken and fish.
Conclusion for This Section
Experimenting with mango in the kitchen can add a sweet and vibrant taste to many dishes.
The “Pro” Method
For those who want to learn even more techniques, professional chefs use various methods to cut mangoes.
Detailed Examples
Method 1: Slice off the cheeks from both sides of the mango. Take one of the cheeks and, using the knife, score several cuts diagonally and then crosswise. Bend the mango inside out to get the diced piece.
Method 2: Stand the mango vertically on one end, cut off the top, including the stem. Score the end, making sure not to cut through the skin. Push the skin to invert the diced pieces.
Conclusion for This Section
There are more advanced techniques to cut mangoes. Do not be afraid to learn from “pros” and adopt their techniques.
Conclusion
With our step-by-step guide, you can now cut a mango like a pro. We hope that this guide has been helpful and encourages you to try cutting a mango using one of the methods provided. For more mango inspiration, try one of our serving suggestions and don’t be afraid to experiment.
Final Thoughts
To get a perfect cut, use a sharp knife. Cutting around the mango seed can be dangerous, therefore, take care not to cut yourself.