How to Pick Mangoes

Sweet and succulent, a ripe mango is like a postcard from paradise. These tropical fruits are often found in salsas and chutneys, but they also shine on their own, slurped down over the kitchen sink as the juice runs down your chin. Follow these steps to select a perfect mango from your grocery store or fruit stand.

Things You'll Need

• Grocery store or fruit stand

Instructions

1. Assess the color of the mango's skin. A ripe mango should be a golden, orange-red color. A green skin usually means the mango is not ripe.

2. Squeeze the mango gently to judge how soft it is. When ripe, the mango should give slightly under pressure.

3. Check the skin for any bruises, cuts or soft spots. These defects will make the mango rot faster.

4. Smell the mango's skin. The mango should smell slightly sweet and tropical.

5. Avoid mangoes that are surrounded by others that are rotting, as this is a good indication that it will rot soon, too.

Tips & Warnings

• When you get home, store mangoes in a fruit bowl or basket away from direct sunlight or heat.

• Be sure to wash the mango's skin thoroughly before peeling it to remove pesticides.