The Mexican mango season is underway. The Ataulfo mango, known for its sweet smooth flesh comes mostly from the Mexican states of Michoacan, Sinaloa, Nayarit, Jalisco, Veracruz and Chiapas. Today I found some nice 12 ct size. Sweet and refreshing.
The Ataulfo is no longer found in supermarkets under that name. The growers and marketers realized that the name was hard to pronounce. Instead it is now marketed under the name “Honey”. It is readily found in supermarkets. Especially during the peak Mexican season from March through June.
The Ataulfo is a small mango. The flesh is smooth and creamy compared to varieties like the larger Tommy Atkins cultivar. The Ataulfo is bright yellow and very sweet.
There are at least seven varieties available in the USA. They range in size, color, texture and taste. Mangos are one of the most popular fruits in the world. The fruit originated in India. However Spanish explorers brought the fruit to South America and Mexico in the 1600s.
The Alphonso variety from India is similar in size, taste and texture to the Ataulfo mango. However I have not seen this variety in the USA. I was very familiar with the Alphonso, having lived in the Middle East for many years. As a result of close proximity to India the Alphonso mango is the most common variety marketed there.
Although I enjoy all varieties, my preference would be the Ataulfo or the Alphonso. The lack of fibers in the flesh make for a much smoother fruit.
Finally, one cup of mango provides 35% of your daily vitamin A, 100% of your daily vitamin C, and 10% of your daily vitamin B6.
For more information on choosing, cutting and nutrition, visit https://www.mango.org/