Kesar mangoes, often called the "queen of mangoes," are renowned for their saffron-coloured pulp, sweet aroma, and rich taste. Native to Gujarat’s Girnar Hills, these mangoes are a summer favourite among tropical fruit lovers worldwide.
But with so many mango varieties on the market, how can you be sure you’re picking a genuine Kesar mango?
This guide will help you easily identify a Kesar mango, ensuring you enjoy this celebrated fruit at its best.
1. Look at the Colour
The name "Kesar" translates to "saffron" in Hindi, and the mango’s colour lives up to this title.
- Skin: Kesar mangoes have a distinct golden-yellow skin with light green patches, particularly when they are not fully ripe. As they ripen, the green fades, and the yellow becomes more vibrant.
- Pulp: The flesh inside is a deep saffron-yellow, which sets it apart from other mango varieties like Alphonso.
2. Smell the Aroma
One of the easiest ways to identify a Kesar mango is through its sweet, fruity fragrance. When ripe, these mangoes emit a strong, inviting aroma that hints at their rich flavour.
- If the mango lacks a noticeable scent, it may not be ripe or could be another variety.
3. Feel the Texture
Gently squeeze the mango to assess its ripeness and quality:
- Firm but Soft: A ripe Kesar mango will feel firm yet slightly soft to the touch, indicating it’s ready to eat.
- No Wrinkles: The skin should be smooth and taut. Wrinkled skin may indicate the mango is overripe or has been stored improperly.
4. Check the Size and Shape
Kesar mangoes are medium-sized and oval in shape, often ever so slightly larger than Alphonso mangoes. Their uniform size and gently curving contours make them easily recognisable.
- Typically, they weigh between 200–300 grams, making them a perfect portion for one serving.
5. Inspect the Origin Label
Authentic Kesar mangoes are primarily grown in Gujarat, particularly in the Girnar Hills near Junagadh. Look for mangoes labelled with their geographic origin to ensure authenticity.
- Mangoes marketed as “GI-tagged Kesar mangoes” are verified as genuine by their geographic indication certification.
6. Taste the Difference
Once you’ve identified and purchased a Kesar mango, the taste is the final confirmation:
- Kesar mangoes are known for their naturally sweet and slightly tangy flavour.
- The pulp is less fibrous and more buttery compared to other mango varieties, making it perfect for desserts, smoothies, and traditional Indian dishes.
Common Mistakes When Identifying Kesar Mangoes
- Confusing with Alphonso Mangoes: While both are premium varieties, Alphonso mangoes are rounder and have a deeper orange hue.
- Over-reliance on Colour: Unripe Kesar mangoes may still have greenish patches, so relying solely on the skin colour might lead to misidentification.
Tips for Buying the Best Kesar Mangoes
- Buy in Season: Kesar mangoes are available from May to July. Purchasing outside this period may mean the mangoes are imported or artificially ripened.
- Source Reputable Sellers: When shopping in the UK, opt for trusted stores or e-commerce platforms specialising in authentic Indian mangoes. Look for clear labelling and customer reviews to ensure quality.
- Smaller Quantities First: If you’re unfamiliar with the variety, buy a small batch to taste and test before making a larger purchase.
Kesar mangoes stand out for their vibrant colour, luscious aroma, and unmatched sweetness. By paying attention to details like size, aroma, texture, and origin, you can easily identify the queen of mangoes and enjoy its full tropical glory.
If you’re looking to buy authentic Kesar mangoes, ensure you shop from trusted sources during the mango season to experience their premium quality. Whether eaten fresh or used in recipes, the Kesar mango’s rich flavour is an indulgence worth seeking out.