Mangoes are often called the “king of fruits” — and for good reason. Juicy, aromatic, and bursting with flavor, mangoes are a tropical delight enjoyed worldwide. But not all mangoes are created equal. There are hundreds of mango varieties across the globe, each with unique characteristics, flavors, textures, and colors. Whether you prefer them sweet, tangy, firm, or fibrous, there's a mango out there to suit every palate. In this blog from Mangoes Magic, we explore the most popular mango varieties and what makes each one special.
Alphonso (Hapus)
Alphonso mangoes, often referred to as “Hapus,” originate from the Ratnagiri region in India. They are considered one of the finest mango varieties due to their rich sweetness, smooth texture, and intense aroma. Alphonso mangoes are small to medium in size and have a golden-yellow skin when ripe. Their flesh is non-fibrous and melts in the mouth, making them ideal for eating fresh, making desserts, or blending into milkshakes.
Alphonso mangoes are exported globally and are especially popular in the Middle East, UK, and US markets. Their short season—typically from April to June—makes them a highly sought-after variety.
Tommy Atkins
Tommy Atkins is one of the most widely grown commercial mango varieties in the world, especially in the United States and South America. It is known more for its durability and long shelf life than for flavor. The skin is greenish with red and orange hues, and the flesh is firm with moderate fiber content.
Though it lacks the strong sweetness and fragrance of other mangoes, Tommy Atkins is still a favorite for salads, smoothies, and cooking, where its firmness holds up well.
Ataulfo (Honey Mango)
Ataulfo, also known as Honey or Champagne mango, is a small, golden-yellow variety originally from Mexico. Its flesh is incredibly creamy and sweet, with little to no fiber, which makes it perfect for blending into smoothies or eating straight off the pit.
Available between March and July, Ataulfo mangoes are easily distinguishable by their smaller size and curved shape. Their rich, buttery taste and high sugar content make them a favorite among mango lovers seeking a sweet snack.
Kent Mango
Kent mangoes are a late-season variety that comes from Florida and South America. They are large, with green skin and occasional red blushes. The flesh is deep orange, fiberless, and very juicy, making Kent a great mango for juicing and pureeing.
Kent mangoes are also ideal for making mango desserts, sorbets, and jams due to their low acidity and rich flavor. Their peak availability is between January and March, making them a top choice when other varieties are out of season.
Keitt Mango
Keitt mangoes are another late-season variety that are typically available from August to October. They are large, oval-shaped, and have bright green skin that stays green even when ripe. Unlike other mangoes, Keitts have a tart flavor, making them ideal for pickling, salsas, or savory dishes.
They are also less sweet than many other varieties, which appeals to those who prefer a less sugary fruit. The flesh is fiberless and firm, which makes it easy to cut and cube.
Haden Mango
The Haden variety was one of the first mangoes to be commercially grown in Florida, and it remains a classic to this day. It has a bright red skin with green and yellow patches and emits a strong fruity aroma when ripe. Haden mangoes are medium to large, with a smooth and juicy texture.
Their flavor is a balance between sweet and slightly tart, which makes them great for general snacking, fruit salads, and breakfast bowls.
Palmer Mango
Palmer mangoes are a lesser-known variety but gaining popularity due to their size and taste. They are elongated and large, often growing up to a pound in weight. The skin ranges from green to red when ripe, and the flesh is smooth with minimal fiber.
Palmer mangoes are ideal for slicing due to their firm texture, and they have a moderately sweet flavor that appeals to a broad audience. They're typically harvested between August and October.
Kesar Mango
Originating from Gujarat, India, Kesar mangoes are prized for their rich, saffron-colored flesh and irresistible sweetness. The name “Kesar” itself means saffron, and the variety lives up to its name in both color and richness.
Kesar mangoes are mostly used for desserts like mango pulp, ice cream, and aamras due to their sweet, juicy nature. They are available from May to July and are one of the most exported varieties from India after Alphonso.
Nam Dok Mai
This Thai mango is considered one of the best mango varieties in Southeast Asia. “Nam Dok Mai” translates to “flower nectar,” which perfectly describes its sweet, floral flavor. The fruit is slender and yellow, with soft, buttery flesh that’s almost entirely free of fiber.
Nam Dok Mai mangoes are often eaten fresh, used in Thai desserts like sticky rice with mango, or pureed for sauces and drinks. They're available mainly between April and August and have a dedicated fan base for their exotic taste.
Francis Mango
The Francis mango, native to Haiti, is gaining popularity in the U.S. for its sweet and spicy flavor. It has a bright yellow skin with green overtones and a slightly oblong shape. The flesh is fibrous but rich and full-bodied.
Francis mangoes are great for grilling, making chutneys, or pairing with meats due to their complex taste. They are available from May through July and are usually found in specialty or tropical fruit markets.
Glenn Mango
Glenn mangoes are medium-sized, with smooth skin that turns yellow to blush-red when ripe. Originally from Florida, Glenn is known for its mild, peach-like flavor and lack of fiber. The tree also produces fruit early in the mango season, usually around May and June.
This variety is ideal for those who enjoy a mellow, sweet flavor without overpowering tang. It's often used in fruit salads, yogurts, and even cocktails.
Choosing the Right Mango Variety for You
When it comes to mango varieties, the best one depends on how you plan to use it. For smoothies and desserts, go for fiberless varieties like Alphonso, Kent, or Ataulfo. For salads or pickles, firmer and tangier options like Keitt or Francis are ideal. If you prefer to enjoy your mangoes fresh, sweet and juicy varieties like Kesar or Nam Dok Mai will never disappoint.
Final Thoughts
The world of mango varieties is as diverse and colorful as the fruit itself. From India’s royal Alphonso to Thailand’s fragrant Nam Dok Mai, each mango tells a story of its origin, climate, and cultivation. By exploring different mango varieties, you not only expand your palate but also gain a deeper appreciation for this luscious fruit.
At Mangoes Magic, we believe there’s a mango for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time taster or a lifelong mango lover, dive into the delicious world of mango varieties and discover your favorite today!
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