More mangos are eaten fresh all over the world than any other
fruit!
History
of the Mango
The mango originated in Southeast Asia where it has been grown
for over 4,000 years. Over the years mango groves have spread
to many parts of the tropical and sub-tropical world, where
the climate allows the mango to grow best. Mango trees are evergreens
that will grow to 60 feet tall. The mango tree will fruit 4
to 6 years after planting. Mango trees require hot, dry periods
to set and produce a good crop. Most of the mangos sold in the
United States are imported from Mexico, Haiti, the Caribbean
and South America. Today there are over 1,000 different varieties
of mangos throughout the world.
Health
Benefits of Mango
A comfort food. Mangos really can make you feel better! Beyond
being delicious and rich in vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants,
mangos contain an enzyme with stomach soothing properties similar
to papain found in papayas. These comforting enzymes act as
a digestive aid and can be held partially responsible for that
feeling of contentment we experience during and after our daily
mango ritual. Yes, it is quite natural to crave those mangos!
Mango, both
in its green and ripe form is a very good tenderizing agent
due to these same enzymes, therefore ideal to include in any
marinade. In India they use a sour mango powder containing ground
up green mangos called Amchur, both as a seasoning and tenderising
aid.
We all know
the importance of fiber in our diets. If you are eating your
mango-a-day, irregularity is not a problem for you and so we'll
spare the gruesome details regarding constipation, piles and
spastic colon. Research has shown that dietary fiber has a protective
effect against degenerative diseases, especially with regards
to the heart; may help prevent certain types of cancer, as well
as lowering blood cholesterol levels. An average sized mango
can contain up to 40% of your daily fiber requirement. For those
of you who are physically active, whether working out or constantly
on the go, mangos are also a great way to replenish that lost
potassium. Deliciously rich in anti-oxidants, potassium and
fiber - the mango is the perfect fruit! Truly 'the king of fruits’.
How
to Select and Store Mango
Selecting the ripeness of mangos can be determined by either
smelling or squeezing. A ripe mango will have a full, fruity
aroma emitting from the stem end. Mangos can be considered ready
to eat when slightly soft to the touch and yielding to gentle
pressure, like a ripe peach. The best flavored fruit have a
yellow tinge when ripe; however, color may be red, yellow, green,
orange or any combination. The ideal post harvest storage temperature
for mangos is 55º F. When stored properly a mango should
have a shelf life of 1 to 2 weeks. We have found that the best
way to ripen a mango is at room temperature, on the kitchen
counter and if you wish to accelerate the process place, in
a paper bag overnight (some folks place an apple with the mango
in the bag to create more natural ethylene gas and further decrease
the ripening time). Once ripened the mango can be refrigerated
for a few days, but should be eaten shortly thereafter.