How to Cut a Mango

Whether you wish to cut a mango into slices or cubes these steps will serve as a guide on how to cut a mango. Additionally, these easy to follow steps are outlined with pictures for visual guidance. In no time at all, you will master this technique, enjoying this sweet delicious fruit.

During the spring and summer months, mangos are plentiful. And they are so delicious. However, they can be daunting to attack in cutting and removing the pit. Yet, there is no need to feel overwhelmed while attempting to yield the flesh of this tasty fruit. It really is quite simple.

With these easy to follow steps, you will grasp how easy it is to cut a mango; and find a plethora of uses for this delicious tropical fruit. For instance, you may like to try this recipe for Spicy Black Bean and Mango Salad. I love this salad served along with barbecue chicken. Or perhaps you’ll try these Bourbon Mango Appetizers. Not only do they make a stunning presentation but are a delight to the tastebuds!

So don’t let another season go by. Pick up that mango and let’s get going!

Selecting a Ripe Mango

First of all, I want to talk about choosing a mango. Look for mangos with bright yellow to orangish skin. In particular, I am referring to Ataulfo mangos also known as champagne mangos. These mangos have a slight curve to their shape. As this mango has a creamy texture, it has become my favorite variety. I prefer Ataulfo as they are less fibrous than common grocery mango. Also, the flavor tends to be sweeter and less tangy. You may have seen these at your local warehouse stores. My Costco carries them, and not only are they inexpensive, they are of excellent quality!

However, the more common red mangos are delicious too! And as they are more readily available year round, this may well be all you can find. Look for a mango that is yellowish to red with some green.

When ripe, the mango will give slightly to gentle thumb pressure at the stem. Additionally, look for a mango that gives off a sweet perfume. They may also have a bit of wrinkling to the skin. Yet, don’t choose a mango that is too soft. Also, don’t hesitate to purchase a mango that has a slight tinge of green. If left at room temperature, it will continue to ripen.

The Tools Needed…

Basically, all you need to cut, slice or dice a mango is a clean cutting board and a very sharp pairing knife. Using a sharp knife anytime you cut reduces accidents. This is due mainly to the lack of struggling and pushing to get a dull knife through the flesh of whatever is being cut. Also, please note that a good sharp knife doesn’t mean it has to be expensive. There are any number of good sharp knives that are priced reasonably. Kuhn Rikon makes an inexpensive pairing knife that is quite sharp and can be purchased for about $10 to $15.

Additionally, Victorinox makes a nice knife that may be purchased at restaurant supply stores. I grew up using Victorinox, and still own and use some of my father’s knives from when he worked as a butcher. In fact, I use this knife daily.

Making the cut

1. Begin by holding the mango standing on end with stem sitting on the cutting board.
2. Slice the mango away from the pit by cutting from the tip of the mango down towards the stem. The first cut will be about 1/2 inch away from the center of the mango.
3. Turn the mango and repeat in the same manner as above, making the second cut on the opposite side of the pit.
4. Basically, the mango is cut away in two pieces leaving the pit in the center.
5. On occasion fibers from the pit may be visible in the mango flesh, after the first cuts have been made. Don’t be alarmed if you find spots like these. While they are not pleasant to eat, they are harmless and can easily be cut away.

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Easy to Follow Steps – How to Cut a Mango into Cubes

1. Using the tip of a pairing knife, make equally spaced cuts across the width of the mango half. Taking care not to cut through the skin.
2. Turn the mango and in the same manner, make equally spaced cuts across the length of the mango.
3. Using the knife tip, cut along the edge of the mango, where the flesh meets the skin. Think of this step much like tracing the edge with the knife tip.
4. Gently invert the flesh towards you, so that the flesh is popping outwards. This can easily be done by gently pressing your finger into the center of the skin side and push in. Now the mango cubes will easily cut away from the skin.

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Sliced Mango

By following the outlined steps, you will find that cutting a mango into slices is equally as easy. Also, you may find it easier to cut a mango into slices. If so, once the sliced pieces have been removed from the skin, they can easily be diced or cubed. Most mornings sliced mango can be found on our breakfast table. Slices made like these are easy to serve and they pair nicely with sliced peaches, kiwi, banana and strawberries.

Easy Steps on How to Cut a Mango into Slices

1. Using the tip of knife, make slices into the flesh of the mango lengthwise.
2. Trace along the edge, where the flesh meets the skin with the tip of the knife.
3. After inverting the mango, cut the slices away from the skin.

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How to cut a mango away from a pit.

While some believe that the pit should be discarded, I do not. Yes, it’s true that when you cut too close to the pit, the flesh becomes more fibrous and stringy. However, there are some tender morsels of flesh that can still be cut away without cutting into the fiber. Furthermore, it is easy to feel. When you cut too close, you will feel resistance in the knife. Generally, I am able to slice away a few more thin slices along the edges as well as a few smaller pieces. But ultimately it is up to you to determine if this is worth your time and effort.

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It really is very easy. So go get your mango on and get cooking! This is such a delicious fruit. I don’t want you to miss out enjoying it’s smooth sweet fruit.

Buon Appetito!