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New Delhi: Mangoes are one of the biggest joys of summer. From mango shakes and smoothies to aamras, ice creams and desserts, the king of fruits becomes a favourite part of the season. But as soon as mango lovers begin to enjoy them fully, the season starts fading away.
The good news is that mangoes can be stored for months if frozen properly. With a simple method, fresh mango pieces can be preserved and used later for shakes, smoothies, desserts and other recipes. If stored the right way, frozen mangoes can stay good for nearly six to eight months.
Start by selecting good-quality mangoes. Pick fruits that are ripe, naturally sweet and firm. Avoid mangoes that are too soft, bruised or showing signs of spoilage, as they may not remain fresh for long after freezing.
Wash the mangoes thoroughly under clean running water to remove dirt or residue. After washing, wipe them dry with a clean kitchen towel. The mangoes should be completely dry before cutting, because extra moisture can form ice crystals in the freezer and affect the taste and texture.
Peel the mangoes and cut the pulp into small cubes or slices. Try to keep the pieces similar in size so they freeze evenly and are easier to use later.
Spread the mango pieces on a tray or large plate. Keep some space between each piece and make sure they do not overlap. Cover the tray with cling film or a clean plastic sheet and place it in the freezer for four to five hours, or overnight.
This step helps the mango pieces freeze separately and prevents them from sticking together.
Once the pieces are fully frozen, transfer them into a zip-lock freezer bag or an airtight container. Remove as much air as possible before sealing the bag. This helps maintain freshness and increases shelf life.
Properly frozen mango pieces can be stored for around six to eight months. Whenever needed, take out only the required quantity and put the rest back into the freezer immediately.
Before using, keep the frozen mangoes at room temperature for about five minutes and then add them directly to shakes, smoothies, aamras, ice cream or desserts.
