The Proper Way to Cut a Mango: Three Techniques for Perfectly Ripe Fruit

Over 50 million pounds of mangoes are sold annually in the US alone, yet many people struggle with the flat, oblong pit that complicates cutting this tropical fruit. Learning the proper way to cut a mango can save you time, reduce waste, and make enjoying this juicy delight much easier.

Quick Summary

This article details three easy methods for cutting a mango, including the popular hedgehog, spoon-scoop, and glass-rim techniques. It provides step-by-step instructions for separating the flesh from the central pit safely and efficiently.

Key Points

• Prepare for Safety: Wash the mango and stabilize it by trimming the bottom for a flat cutting surface.

• Master the Hedgehog: Slice off the two large 'cheeks' of the mango, score the flesh in a grid, and gently push from the skin side to invert the cubes.

• Use the Spoon Scoop: After removing the cheeks, use a large spoon to cleanly scoop the flesh away from the skin.

• Try the Glass Rim Method: For a quick, mess-free cut, use the rim of a sturdy glass to separate the flesh from the peel on the mango cheeks.

• Utilize the Remaining Flesh: Don't discard the center section with the pit; use a paring knife to trim off the remaining edible flesh.

• Consider Mango Ripeness: A ripe, but not overly soft, mango is ideal for all cutting techniques; too soft and it can get mushy.

• Practice for Perfection: Each method improves with practice, so find the one that fits your comfort level and desired result.

The Essentials: How to Prepare for Cutting a Mango

Before you begin cutting a mango, select a ripe one that is firm but slightly yielding. Wash the mango and gather a sharp knife, cutting board, and a spoon or glass depending on your chosen technique. To create a stable cutting surface, trim a small piece from the bottom of the mango so it can stand upright.

Method 1: The Classic 'Hedgehog' Technique

This popular method is ideal for creating diced mango for various dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Hedgehog Method

1. Slice the Cheeks: Hold the mango upright and slice a wide section off each side, about a half-inch from the center to avoid the pit. You will have two cheeks and a middle section with the pit.
2. Score the Flesh: Using your knife, score the flesh of each cheek in a grid pattern without cutting through the skin.
3. Invert the Cheek: Gently press the skin side to turn the cheek inside out, making the scored cubes stand up like a hedgehog.
4. Remove the Cubes: Cut or spoon the cubes away from the skin.

Method 2: The Spoon Scoop Technique

Great for softer mangoes, this method provides clean slices or cubes with less mess.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Spoon Scoop Method

1. Slice the Cheeks: As with the hedgehog method, remove the two fleshy cheeks from the mango.
2. Score the Flesh (Optional): Score the flesh if you want cubes, or leave it as is for slices.
3. Scoop it Out: Insert a large spoon between the flesh and skin and gently scoop the fruit out in one piece.
4. Dice or Slice: Cut the scooped mango into your desired shape on the cutting board.

Method 3: The Glass Rim Method

This fast and clean technique uses a glass to separate the flesh from the skin.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Glass Rim Method

1. Slice the Cheeks: Cut off the two mango cheeks as described in the other methods.
2. Use the Glass: Hold a mango cheek with the narrow end down and place the rim of a sturdy glass where the flesh meets the skin.
3. Slide and Separate: Slide the mango cheek down the glass rim with firm pressure to separate the flesh from the skin.
4. Repeat and Enjoy: Repeat for the other cheek, leaving you with skinless mango halves ready to cut or eat.

Comparison of Mango Cutting Techniques

Feature	'Hedgehog' Technique	Spoon Scoop Technique	Glass Rim Technique
Best For	Cubes, garnishes, visual presentation	Mess-free cubes and slices, softer mangoes	Speed, efficiency, minimal mess
Tool Required	Sharp knife	Sharp knife, large spoon	Sharp knife, sturdy glass
Waste	Low waste if you scrape the skin	Can sometimes leave more flesh on the skin if not careful	Generally very low, highly efficient
Difficulty	Medium; requires good knife control	Easy to moderate; good for beginners	Very easy, even for a beginner
Resulting Shape	Pre-diced cubes attached to skin	Scooped-out halves for slicing or dicing	Clean, skinless mango halves

What to Do with the Rest of the Mango

Don't discard the middle section with the pit. Trim any remaining edible flesh from the pit and the skin with a paring knife. You can also simply eat the flesh directly off the pit.

Conclusion

Successfully cutting a mango is achievable with these three methods. The 'hedgehog' is excellent for presentation, while the spoon and glass techniques offer speed and less mess. Practice helps in choosing the best method for you, allowing you to enjoy this delicious and nutritious fruit in salads, smoothies, or on its own.

Visit the National Mango Board website for more information and recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to tell if a mango is ripe?

To tell if a mango is ripe, gently squeeze it. A ripe mango should give slightly, similar to a peach or avocado, and may have a tropical, fruity aroma near the stem.

How do you avoid the fibrous strands near the mango pit?

To avoid the fibrous strands, cut the mango cheeks about a half-inch away from the center of the fruit, where the pit is located. For the remaining fruit around the pit, use a paring knife to trim the cleaner parts.

What tools are needed to cut a mango properly?

You will need a sharp chef's knife or paring knife, a sturdy cutting board, and possibly a large spoon or a sturdy glass, depending on the method you choose.

Can I use a potato peeler on a mango?

Yes, you can peel a mango with a potato peeler, especially if the mango is slightly unripe and firm. This is often a messier method, but it leaves you with more fruit.

How should I store cut mango?

Store fresh, cut mango in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days.

Is the 'hedgehog' method the only way to cut a mango?

No, while the 'hedgehog' method is popular, other techniques like the spoon scoop and glass rim methods are also very effective and simple to use.

Why did my knife hit the pit when cutting?

You likely cut too close to the center of the mango. The pit is oblong and flat, so you need to aim your cut slightly further from the center, about a half-inch, on the wider sides.