Its summer time here in Maharashtra and mind you all summer here is quite hot and dry if you go across the Eastern Maharashtra but at the same time it’s humid across the Western Maharashtra. Thanks to Arabian Sea!
The summer here lasts from March to the beginning of June. We are usually not fond of these nasty summers but everything pays off when it comes to enjoy savouring the King of fruits during these months – none other than Mangoes!!
This seasonal fruit is subject to many varieties which differ as per their size, colour, appearance, taste and various other factors. Let’s check out the varieties from Maharashtra…
Western coast of Maharashtra especially the coastal places like Devgarh, Ratnagiri, Malvan, Vengurla and many other places are blessed with the production of ultimate species of Alphonso/Haapus Mangoes. These mangoes are loved for their sunshine yellow appearance and sweet delightful taste not only domestically but also internationally.
Mankhurd variety of mango develops black spots on the skin in monsoon. Fruit is medium ovate and yellow in colour. Fruit quality is very good but keeping quality is poor. You can also find this mango in the neighbouring state of Goa.
The hybrid mango made out of Neelum X Alphonso called Suvarna have medium sized fruits, are attractive in colour and free from spongy tissues.
Greenish orange mango of Ratna is large in size, has excellent taste, free from spongy tissues and usually considered excellent for processing as well as table purpose.
Sindhu has higher percentage of pulp, has an attractive red blush on fruits and free from spongy tissues.
The size of Konkan Ruchi is large with thick skin and is best for pickle purpose.
Konkan Raja is less sour and usually used for salad purposes
Konkan Samrat have Alphonso Mango as one of its hybrid parents, it is free from spongy tissue and has low fibre.
From left: Sindhu, Konkan Samrat, Ratna, Alphonso, Mankhurd, Suvarna, Konkan Raja and Konkan Ruchi.
Mango plays an important economic role in India as a cash crop, sold domestically and internationally. It has also penetrated and influenced the country’s culinary, religious and ethnic culture for thousands of years.
Mango is consumed through various forms of interesting and delicious culinary delights in Maharashtra. Let’s have a look at them...
One of the highly popular Maharashtrian side dishes of Kairichi dal is made from grated raw mango, soaked chickpeas with a tint of green chilli along with the seasoning of mustard seeds and curry leaves. A lip smacking delight indeed!
Nothing is more refreshing than Kairicha panha, an appetizing drink made from raw mango and sugar or jaggery during the scorching summer days.
Sour and spicy Mango Pickle is something which is relished in every Maharashtrian house throughout the year which enough to raise your taste buds.
Luscious and pulpy Aamras is simply enjoyed by many people during summer season. It tastes best with Puri (deep fried wheat bread).
If you are fond of sweet rice along with an essence and flavour of Mango then Aambe bhaat (Mango rice) is for you!
Mouth-watering Raw Mango curry has stewed raw mango tempered with some mustard seeds and dry red chilli. It tastes absolutely delicious as a gravy dish with steamed rice, Bhakri or Chapati.
Rhythm Alphonso is a unique wine made from Alphonso mangoes from Ratnagiri which is a semi-sweet wine with 12% to 13% of alcohol.
The other popular options that have become available for large scale processing of mango are seasonal Mango Milkshake, Mango ice cream, Mango juice, dried mango slices etc.
Concluding that Konkan coast of Maharashtra can be formed as one of the ideal places for culinary tourism during summer if one is truly fond of mangoes and is eager to try some of these amazing traditional mango culinary cuisines…
Take it into account that Konkan coast of Maharashtra is subject to humid climate and is highly advisable to stay hydrated by drinking lot of water and juices to enjoy if you are planning your trip in summer i.e from March to May.
So have a great day, stay safe and have a mangolicious time this summer!!
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