Zero Waste: 5 Delicious Dishes To Make With Mango Peel

Mangoes, “ the king of fruits,” is one of the most popular dishes in the summer and tropical regions. Worldwide, there is a wide variety of mangoes people indulge in to enjoy the juiciest fruit. Apart from having it as a fruit, there are also myriad dishes that are made using both ripe and raw mangoes. However, while delving into the succulent, juicy and sweet flesh, the flesh of the mango often gets overlooked and is discarded into the trash cans.

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Rich in dietary fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants, mango peel offers a host of health benefits that rival those found in the flesh of the fruit itself. Studies have shown that mango peel contains significant amounts of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and carotenoids, which contribute to its antioxidant properties. These compounds not only support overall health but also lend a distinctive tangy flavour and vibrant colour to dishes when properly prepared.

Mango Peel Pickle

Mango Peel Pickle is a delicious and eco-friendly dish that transforms mango peels into a tangy delight. The main ingredients include fresh mango peels, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, red chilli powder, turmeric, salt, and mustard oil. To make it, dry the peels under the sun, then toss them with roasted mustard and fenugreek seeds. Add chilli powder, turmeric, and salt, then mix with heated mustard oil. Store it in a jar and let it mature for a week, and it will be ready.

Mango Peel Chutney

Gather fresh mango peels, mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chillies, ginger, garlic, and lemon juice. Blend these ingredients with a pinch of salt and a bit of water until smooth. This vibrant chutney offers a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavour profile. Then, you can cook it on a nonstick pan with the tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves. 

Mango Peel Tea

To make this refreshing tea, you need fresh mango peels, water, honey or sugar, and a few mint leaves for added freshness. Boil the mango peels in water for about 10 minutes, then strain the liquid. Sweeten it with honey or sugar, and garnish with mint leaves. The result is a mildly sweet, fruity tea with a hint of tropical mango flavour, perfect for a warm day and a great way to minimise kitchen waste.

Mango Skin Chips

Mango Skin Chips are a delightful, eco-friendly snack made from mango peels. Start by thoroughly washing and drying the peels. Toss them in a mixture of olive oil, salt, and a dash of chilli powder for a spicy kick. Spread the seasoned peels on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until crispy. These chips offer a unique combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavours. Enjoy them as a crunchy, guilt-free treat that minimises waste and maximises flavour.

Also read, A Peel-Good Story: Much More Than Kitchen Waste

Mango Peel Jam

Mango Peel Jam transforms kitchen scraps into a delightful spread. Using mango peels, sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of pectin, this jam offers a unique, tangy-sweet flavour. Start by thoroughly washing the peels and boiling them until soft. Blend the boiled peels into a smooth puree, then cook with sugar and lemon juice until thickened. Add pectin for a firmer set. This vibrant, eco-friendly jam pairs perfectly with toast, yoghurt, or desserts, adding a burst of tropical sweetness to your meals while reducing waste.