Food

Celebrating the King of Fruits: Mango Mania in India

Mangoes are the epitome of Indian summers, with their sweet aroma and velvety texture captivating the hearts of millions. With over 1,000 varieties grown across the country, India is the largest producer of mangoes in the world. From the succulent Alphonso to the tangy Langda, each variety has its unique flavor profile and cultural significance. In this article, Hashtag India Magazine delves into the world of Indian mangoes, exploring their history, cultural significance, and health benefits.

A Brief History of Mangoes in India

Mangoes have been cultivated in India for over 4,000 years, with records of mango cultivation dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization. The fruit was considered a delicacy in ancient India, with the Mughal Empire being particularly fond of mangoes. In fact, the Mughal emperor Akbar was known to have planted over 100,000 mango trees in his orchards.

Popular Mango Varieties in India

India is home to over 1,000 varieties of mangoes, each with its unique flavor, texture, and color. Here are some of the most popular mango varieties in India

1. Alphonso Mangoes: The King of Mangoes

Alphonso mangoes are widely regarded as the king of mangoes in India. Native to Maharashtra, these mangoes are known for their sweet, creamy flavor and vibrant orange color. Alphonso mangoes are often eaten fresh, used in salads, or made into smoothies. They’re also used in traditional Indian desserts like mango lassi and mango kulfi.

Benefits: Alphonso mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.

2. Kesar Mangoes: The Queen of Mangoes

Kesar mangoes are grown primarily in Gujarat and are known for their distinctive saffron-colored flesh and sweet, slightly tangy flavor. These mangoes are often eaten fresh, used in salads, or made into smoothies. They’re also used in traditional Indian desserts like mango barfi and mango halwa.

Benefits: Kesar mangoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and potassium, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.

3. Langda Mangoes: The Flavorful Delight

Langda mangoes are native to Varanasi and are known for their unique flavor, which is often described as a combination of sweet and tangy. These mangoes are often eaten fresh, used in salads, or made into smoothies. They’re also used in traditional Indian desserts like mango lassi and mango kulfi.

Benefits: Langda mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.

4. Chausa Mangoes: The Sweet and Tangy Delight

Chausa mangoes are grown primarily in Bihar and are known for their sweet, slightly acidic flavor and firm texture. These mangoes are often eaten fresh, used in salads, or made into smoothies. They’re also used in traditional Indian desserts like mango barfi and mango halwa.

Benefits: Chausa mangoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and potassium, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.

5. Himayat Mangoes: The Sweet and Creamy Delight

Himayat mangoes are native to Telangana and are known for their sweet, creamy flavor and vibrant orange color. These mangoes are often eaten fresh, used in salads, or made into smoothies. They’re also used in traditional Indian desserts like mango lassi and mango kulfi.

Benefits: Himayat mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.

6. Baiganpalli Mangoes: The Sweet and Tangy Delight

Baiganpalli mangoes are grown primarily in Andhra Pradesh and are known for their sweet, slightly tangy flavor and firm texture. These mangoes are often eaten fresh, used in salads, or made into smoothies. They’re also used in traditional Indian desserts like mango barfi and mango halwa.

Benefits: Baiganpalli mangoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and potassium, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.

7. Totapuri Mangoes: The Sweet and Creamy Delight

Totapuri mangoes are native to Karnataka and are known for their sweet, creamy flavor and vibrant orange color. These mangoes are often eaten fresh, used in salads, or made into smoothies. They’re also used in traditional Indian desserts like mango lassi and mango kulfi.

Benefits: Totapuri mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.

8. Neelam Mangoes: The Sweet and Tangy Delight

Neelam mangoes are grown primarily in Tamil Nadu and are known for their sweet, slightly tangy flavor and firm texture. These mangoes are often eaten fresh, used in salads, or made into smoothies. They’re also used in traditional Indian desserts like mango barfi and mango halwa.

Benefits: Neelam mangoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and potassium, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.

9. Bangnapalli Mangoes: The Sweet and Creamy Delight

Bangnapalli mangoes are native to Andhra Pradesh and are known for their sweet, creamy flavor and vibrant orange color. These mangoes are often eaten fresh, used in salads, or made into smoothies. They’re also used in traditional Indian desserts like mango lassi and mango kulfi.

Benefits: Bangnapalli mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.

Cultural Significance of Mangoes in India

Mangoes play a significant role in Indian culture and cuisine. In many Indian households, mangoes are considered a symbol of prosperity, good fortune, and love.

Here are a few ways in which mangoes are culturally significant in India:

1. Mango Festivals: Many Indian states, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh, celebrate mango festivals to mark the arrival of the mango season.

2. Mango-Based Cuisine: Mangoes are a staple ingredient in many Indian dishes, including salads, smoothies, and desserts.

3. Mango as a Symbol of Love: In many Indian cultures, mangoes are considered a symbol of love and romance. In fact, mangoes are often exchanged as gifts between loved ones during special occasions.

Health Benefits of Mangoes

Mangoes are not only delicious, but they’re also packed with nutrients and antioxidants.

1. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.

2. Antioxidant Properties: Mangoes contain a range of antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.

3. Supports Eye Health: The high levels of vitamin A in mangoes make them an excellent fruit for supporting eye health and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Mangoes are truly the king of fruits in India, with their sweet, creamy flavor and velvety texture making them a staple of Indian cuisine and culture. With over 1,000 varieties of mangoes grown in India, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of Alphonso, Kesar, or Langda mangoes, there’s no denying the cultural significance and health benefits of this delicious fruit. So next time you bite into a juicy mango, remember the rich history, cultural significance, and health benefits that make mangoes truly the king of fruits.

March 13, 2025

Celebrating The King Of Fruits, food, india, mango, Mango Mania in India

When the North Comes to the South

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Food

Festive Recipes From Top Indian Chefs

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Food

Where the Brews Meet the Sky, Only at BrewfTop, Andheri

As the world lifts its glass this August 1st for World Beer Day, there’s no better place in Mumbai to join the global toast than BrewfTop, the breezy rooftop oasis at Berlin Brew Beer Garden in Andheri. Rooted in the convivial spirit of Berlin’s garden pubs and blended with Mumbai’s electric social energy, BrewfTop is more than a rooftop; it’s a destination for those who live to sip, savour, and celebrate craft. World Beer Day isn’t just about the drink. It’s about shared stories, clinking glasses, and discovering new flavours that transport you across continents. It’s a global celebration of brewing culture, and BrewfTop honours that with heart and hops. With panoramic views, soulfully rustic interiors, and a beer lineup that spans styles and stories, it offers the perfect backdrop for this international day of cheer. This year, BrewfTop invites patrons to soak up the golden hour with a curated experience that’s festive and flavour-packed. The rooftop will come alive with live music and DJ sets, making way for sundowner vibes that flow effortlessly into the night. Guests can dive into beer challenges, sip from sampler trees, or gather around beer towers built for communal joy. It’s all about pouring more than beer; it’s about pouring moments. The star of the evening? BrewfTop’s top-tier craft brews. The Berlin Hefeweizen brings a whisper of banana and clove in every sip, perfect for easy afternoons. The Tropical Guava Pale Ale is juicy, aromatic, and built for the bold palate. The Mango Lager is smooth, sunny, and deeply refreshing. For something darker and moodier, the Berlin Stout offers rich cocoa notes and espresso warmth. And for purists, the Rice Lager delivers ultimate crispness and clarity. Guests looking to explore the range of house-brewed flavours can opt for the Beer Tree, a tasting flight

Food

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A multi-cuisine experience in Panjim that shines with fresh flavours, eclectic cocktails, and a vibrant ambience. Nestled in the heart of Panjim, Raia Ristorante & Bar is quickly becoming a go-to spot for food lovers looking for variety, flavour, and a vibrant dining experience. The name Raia, inspired by a village in Portugal and symbolizing sunrays, reflects the restaurant’s bright and inviting vibe. With airy interiors during the day and a cozy, elegant ambience by night, Raia sets the stage for meals that feel both special and comforting. We began with the seasonal Thai Mango Salad a refreshing plate of juicy mangoes tossed with bell peppers, onions, and a zingy Thai dressing. It was fresh, light, and the perfect start to the meal. This dish is a part of their seasonal menu, which highlights their commitment to using ingredients at their peak, offering guests a dining experience that feels both timely and indulgent. With a menu that changes to reflect what’s best each season, there’s always something new and delightful to discover From their small plates, the Avocado & Burrata Toast and the Mushroom & Truffle Open Toast stood out simple yet indulgent, perfect for an anytime bite. From the global menu, the Cilantro Prawns were a clear winner, marinated in a vibrant mix of cilantro, garlic, pepper, lime juice, and olive oil, offering a burst of flavour in every bite. The Onion Rings, crisp and golden, made for a satisfying snack, while the Kathi Rolls available in paneer, chicken, lamb, and beef were soft, succulent, and full of flavour. In the Italian section, the Spinach & Ricotta Ravioli was a standout. Handmade and filled with blanched spinach and ricotta, it came in a rich tomato-based sauce that was both hearty and delicate. We also tried their Wood-Fired Pizzas The