Aam Papad To Margarita- 7 Ways To Enjoy Green Mangoes

Mango hailed as the "King of Fruits" in India, is cherished for its sweet, luscious flavour and vibrant aroma. However, every mango season brings with it a few disappointments - those bad mangoes that don't live up to our expectations. But fret not! We will show you how to transform those bad mangoes into delectable treats that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with these seven mouthwatering recipes that celebrate the beauty of imperfect mangoes.

Aam Papad

Ingredients:

  • 4 mangoes, peeled and pitted
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Ghee for greasing

Method:

  1. Cut the mangoes into small pieces and blend them in a blender until you get a smooth puree.
  2. In a non-stick pan, combine the mango puree, sugar, and cardamom powder.
  3. Cook the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring continuously to prevent sticking, for about 20-25 minutes. The mixture will thicken and reduce in volume.
  4. Add lemon juice and continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and glossy.
  5. Grease a large plate or tray with ghee to prevent sticking.
  6. Pour the mango mixture onto the greased plate and spread it evenly with a spatula, about 1/4-inch thick.
  7. Place the plate in a well-ventilated area or under the sun to dry. This may take 2-3 days, depending on the weather.
  8. Once the Aam Papad is completely dry and firm, cut it into desired shapes using a sharp knife or scissors.
  9. Store the Aam Papad in an airtight container and enjoy this tangy-sweet treat anytime.

Mango Salsa

Ingredients:

  • 2 mangoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small jalapeno pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste

Method:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red onion, jalapeno pepper, lime juice, cilantro, and salt.
  2. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
  3. Allow the flavours to meld for 15-20 minutes before serving.
  4. Serve the mango salsa as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats or as a dip with tortilla chips.

Mango Coconut Popsicles

Ingredients:

  • 2 mangoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons honey

Method:

  1. In a blender, combine the diced mangoes, coconut milk, and honey.
  2. Blend until smooth and well combined
  3. Pour the mixture into popsicle moulds and insert sticks.
  4. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.
  5. To remove the popsicles from the moulds, briefly run them under warm water.
  6. Enjoy these tropical delights on a hot summer day.

Mango Chutney

Ingredients:

  • 3 mangoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon red chilli flakes
  • 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
  • Salt to taste

Method:

  1. In a saucepan, combine the diced mangoes, sugar, vinegar, ginger, garlic, red chilli flakes, cumin powder, and salt.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mangoes soften and the mixture thickens (approximately 30 minutes).
  3. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
  4. Transfer the chutney to a sterilized jar and refrigerate.
  5. Serve the mango chutney as a condiment with your favourite Indian snacks or as a tangy accompaniment to grilled meats.

Mango Lassi

Ingredients:

  • 2 mangoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup yoghurt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • Ice cubes (optional)

Method:

  1. In a blender, combine the diced mangoes, yoghurt, milk, sugar, and cardamom powder.
  2. Blend until smooth and frothy.
  3. If desired, add ice cubes and blend again.
  4. Pour the mango lassi into glasses and serve chilled. Garnish with a sprinkle of cardamom powder, if desired.

Mango Rice Pudding

Ingredients:

  • 2 mangoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 2 cups milk
  • 4 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • Sliced almonds and pistachios for garnish

Method:

In a saucepan, combine the diced mangoes, cooked rice, milk, sugar, and cardamom powder.

Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the mangoes break down (approximately 30 minutes).

Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Serve the mango rice pudding warm or chilled, garnished with sliced almonds and pistachios.

Mango Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 mangoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 4 tablespoons tequila
  • 2 tablespoons triple sec
  • Ice cubes
  • Salt for rimming the glasses (optional)
  • Lime wedges for garnish

Method:

  1. In a blender, combine the diced mangoes, lime juice, tequila, triple sec, and ice cubes.
  2. Blend until smooth and well-mixed.
  3. If desired, rim the glasses with salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it into the salt.
  4. Pour the mango margarita into the glasses and garnish with lime wedges.
  5. Sip and savour this tropical twist on a classic cocktail.

Don't let bad mangoes dampen your spirits during mango season. With these seven delightful recipes, you can turn those imperfect mangoes into culinary masterpieces that will leave you craving for more. From refreshing smoothies and tangy salsas to creamy popsicles and indulgent desserts, these recipes celebrate the versatility of mangoes and their ability to transform into irresistible treats. So, the next time you encounter a bad mango, don't despair; let your creativity shine in the kitchen and enjoy the sweet rewards of your culinary ingenuity. Happy cooking and happy mango season!