How to Choose Mangoes

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Choose Mangoes

Mangoes are a sweet, smooth gulp of the tropics which make for great smoothies. The best-tasting mangoes are the Haden, Kent and Keitt varieties.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Look for mangoes that are firm and plump if you want to allow them to ripen after you buy them.
Step 2

Look for yellowish-orange or reddish tones to indicate a ripening mango.
Step 3

Press gently on mangoes to make sure they yield a little to pressure if you want ripe mangoes and will eat them soon.
Step 4

Avoid mangoes with a green or gray tone to the skin, or with too many dark blemishes.
Step 5

Make sure the flesh fills the skin and does not leave it sagging.
Step 6

Smell mangoes at the stem end and choose those with a fresh, fruity smell.

Tips & Warnings

Some varieties, such as Keitt mangoes, never change color, so rely more heavily on softness to indicate ripeness.
A few black spots on the skin are typical of ripe mangoes.
Put mangoes in a paper bag to ripen at room temperature; store ripe mangoes in the refrigerator.

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