Exploring the Versatility of Mango in Indian Cuisine: From Murabba to Custard

Mango, a beloved fruit across various cultures, holds a special place in Indian cuisine. Indians are known for their innovative and scrumptious use of mangoes, which can be found in a myriad of sweet and savory dishes. This article explores some of the popular and traditional Indian recipes made with mango, including murabba, custard, and more.

Aam Ka Murabba

One of the most popular and versatile pickles in Indian cuisine is aam ka murabba, a sweet and tangy preservation of mangoes. This recipe is not only easy to make but also forms an excellent addition to your pantry, lasting for several weeks. Here's how you can make it:

Ingredients:

4-5 ripe mangoes, peeled and cut into small pieces 2 cups sugar 2 cups water 1-inch ginger, grated 2 cloves cardamom 2-3 green cardamom 2-3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tsp lemon juice 1/2 tsp asafoetida (hing) 1 tsp turmeric powder (optional)

Instructions:

Puree the mango pieces using a blender or a food processor. In a large saucepan, combine the pureed mango, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Add ginger, cardamom, cloves, garlic, lemon juice, asafoetida, and turmeric powder. Stir well. Pour the mixture into airtight jars and seal them properly. Let it cool at room temperature before storing in the refrigerator.

Aam ka murabba is versatile and can be used as a side dish with yogurt, a snack, or even as a dessert. It is perfect for those who enjoy the tangy and sweet flavors of mango.

Mango Panna

Mango Panna is another delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of panna (a traditional Indian milk dessert) with the flavors of ripe mangoes. It is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy mangoes without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Ingredients:

1 cup ripe mangoes, peeled and cubed 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/2 cup milk 1 tbsp sugar 1 tsp cardamom powder Vanilla ice cream (optional)

Instructions:

Blend the mangoes until smooth and set aside. In a saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream. Heat until just before boiling. Add the sugar and cardamom powder. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Pour the heated milk mixture over the blended mangoes and mix well. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Serve cold, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Mango Panna is not only delicious but also light and refreshing, making it perfect for a hot summer day or a casual dessert.

More Mango Delights

Southern India, particularly in the Telugu states, is famous for its use of sour mangoes in preparing avakaya, a sour pickle. In other regions, sweet mango dishes such as mango custard, aam rass, and avakaya are popular. The Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has also been known to enjoy a sweet mango curry, showcasing the versatility of this fruit in Indian cuisine. Some other intriguing recipes include:

Aam Rakh-Hand (Mango Milkshake) Raw Mango in Fish Curry Prawn Ambote (mango and prawn salad) Mango Marmalade

Each of these recipes offers a unique twist on the traditional use of mangoes in Indian cuisine, making them a must-try for food enthusiasts and home cooks alike.

Conclusion

Mangoes in Indian cuisine offer a wide range of culinary experiences, from savory to sweet. Whether you are making a fruity murabba or a creamy panna, there is always something to match your taste. So, why wait? Dive into the world of mangoes in Indian cooking and explore the delightful possibilities with these fun and delicious recipes.