Go Man-Go

Summer is the season when one craves for something that is not only cool but also delectable and scrumptious. And what is more cooling and palatable cuisine than the one prepared with the delicious and luscious mango! The season of mangoes is here and most of the F&B outlets are busy dreaming up delectable dishes prepared from this cherished fruit for their keen clients waiting avidly to taste a delicacy that is beyond compare from this king of fruits. Ashok Malkani looks at the popularity of this seasonal fruit, its origins and how healthy it is for your well-being and physical fitness

- Ashok Malkani

As May beckons more piercing heat, one saving grace of the season is mango. Mention mangoes and everyone from children to the elderly - start drooling and slurping. This king of fruits, also the national fruit of the country can be had in many formats - from mango juice to mango cake, mango pudding, mango cheesecake and even mango salad. F&B outlets-ranging from stand alone restaurants to those in star-hotels- have special mango fiestas for their guests.

Raw mangoes are used in making mango chutney, pickles, dals and other side dishes in Bengali cuisine. Aam panna and mango lassi are a couple of favourite drinks during summer.

Mangoes are also used to make murabba (fruit preserve) Prakash Kumar D., Executive Chef, The Woodrose Club, Bengaluru states, "Mango is one of the most popular fruits. These delicious fruit is available all over the world - from Asia to America and are loved for their taste and aroma. Mangoes have a beta carotene and antioxidants that are converted to Vitamins by the human body."

He adds, "Mango, "The Kings of Fruits", is an economically important fruit in various parts of the world. In addition to its excellent tropical flavour, mangoes embody nutrition and make eating healthy and delightful sensory experience. Mangoes have been a part of Indian culture and cuisine for centuries and are commonly used in various dishes, desserts, and drinks."

Gaurav Bansal, Chef De Cuisine, Sheraton Grand at Brigade Gateway, Bengaluru, declares, "The attractive aroma, bright colour, luscious texture, and most importantly, the taste are what make mangoes deserving of credit. Additionally, it is only available naturally during the summer, causing many people to eagerly await its arrival and ultimately increasing its value and rarity.