How to Cut a Mango: 14 Steps
1. Choose the right mango: Select a ripe mango that gives slightly when you press on it. The skin should be smooth and unblemished.
2. Wash the mango: Rinse the mango under running water to remove any dirt or debris before cutting.
3. Place the mango on a cutting board: To prevent slipping, place the mango on a stable surface.
4. Identify the seed orientation: The mango seed runs through the center of the fruit. Locate the two flatter sides of the mango as indication of where the seed is positioned.
5. Cut off both ends of the mango: Use a sharp knife to slice off about a quarter inch from each end of the fruit. This will create two flat surfaces for stability when cutting.
6. Stand the mango up: Place the mango on one of its flat surfaces, with the seed’s long axis aligned
vertically.
7. Make vertical cuts to separate the flesh from the pit: Hold your knife parallel to the widest part of the seed, and make downward cuts along both sides of it, separating two large portions of fruit known as “cheeks.”
8. Scoop or score out each cheek: There are two methods for extracting mango cubes from each cheek–scooping and scoring.
– For scooping, use a spoon to gently scoop out the flesh in one piece if possible.
– For scoring, hold each cheek in your hand and make horizontal and vertical cuts without piercing through its skin, creating grid-like cuts. The slices should be roughly equal size.
9. Pop out scored pieces: If you’ve scored your mango cheeks, gently push up from underneath until they pop outward in their grid pattern and expose separated cubes.
10. Peel skin away from scored pieces: Carefully peel off small portions of skin away from scored cubes using either your fingers or a small knife.
11. Cut around the pit: Holding the remaining mango piece over a bowl or plate, carefully trim off remaining fruit from around the seed.
12. Slice off excess flesh: Some mangoes might have extra flesh around the pit. Carefully slice it off with a knife.
13. Discard the pit and skin: Once you remove all the edible fruit, throw away the skin and seed.
14. Enjoy! You now have a perfectly cut mango ready for eating or using in your favorite recipe.
By following these 14 steps, you will achieve perfectly sliced mangoes every time. Whether you consume them on their own or incorporate them into delicious dishes, you can savor the tropical flavors of this versatile fruit.