Mangoes are one of the most beloved fruits around the world. Their sweet, tropical flavor makes them an irresistible treat. Mangoes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. However, the two most common types of mangoes are yellow and red. So what sets these colorful mangoes apart?
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Yellow and Red Mangoes
Yellow and red mangoes can look quite similar at first glance. They are both oval-shaped with smooth, thin yellow or orange skin when ripe. The main difference lies in their flesh color.
Yellow mangoes have bright golden-yellow flesh when sliced open. They are juicy and tangy with a distinctive sweet mango aroma. Popular yellow mango varieties include Ataulfo, Francis, Honey, and Keitt.
Red mangoes have deep orange-red colored flesh that becomes darker as they ripen. They are incredibly sweet and less fibrous than yellow mangoes. The most common red mango varieties are Hayden, Lippens, and Maya.
So in summary:
- Yellow mangoes: golden flesh, tangy and fibrous
- Red mangoes: deep orange-red flesh, very sweet, less fibrous
But there’s more to distinguish these two mango groups beyond just color and taste…
The Origins of Yellow and Red Mangoes
To understand the differences between yellow and red mangoes, it’s important to take a look at where they come from.
Yellow mangoes like Ataulfo, Francis, and Keitt originate from Asia and were brought to the Americas in the 18th century. They thrive in hot, dry climates like Mexico, Peru, and Ecuador.
Meanwhile, red mango cultivars like Hayden, Maya, and Lippens were developed in Florida in the 20th century. They were bred to be less fibrous and more tropical flavored to appeal to American tastes.
So yellow mangoes have more traditional Asian roots while red mangoes were created to satisfy American farmers and consumers. This explains why red mangoes tend to be sweeter and juicier compared to tangy, fibrous yellow varieties.
Nutritional Differences Between Yellow and Red
When it comes to nutrition, both yellow and red mangoes pack a healthy punch.
One cup of yellow or red mango contains around 100 calories, 76% of your daily vitamin C needs, 25% of your daily vitamin A needs plus vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin B6, folate, potassium, copper, and fiber.
However, red mangoes edge out yellow mangoes when it comes to a few key antioxidants:
- Beta-carotene: Red mangoes get their vibrant color from beta-carotene. This powerful antioxidant boosts immunity and promotes healthy eyes and skin.
- Lyopene: Red mangoes also contain high levels of lycopene, a carotenoid antioxidant that reduces inflammation and protects against chronic diseases.
- Vitamin C: While both are excellent sources of vitamin C, red mangoes have up to 30% more vitamin C per serving compared to yellow.
So while both provide core vitamins and minerals, red mangoes are particularly loaded with antioxidants linked to better health.
How to Pick Ripe Yellow and Red Mangoes
Choosing perfect, ripe mangoes is an art. Here are tips for picking ripe yellow and red mangoes:
For yellow mangoes, look for:
- Smooth, blemish-free yellow skin with some blushes of red
- Aromatic mango scent at the stem end
- Slight softness when gently squeezed
For red mangoes, look for:
- Rich red skin with little or no green patches
- Noticeable fruit-drop or flower-end softness
- Heavy, full feeling in the hand
Avoid mangoes with wrinkled skin or black spots. Use the “squeeze test” sparingly as it can bruise ripe mangoes. Trust your nose – ripe mangoes smell sweet and fragrant even through the skin.
Storing Cut Yellow and Red Mangoes
Mangoes oxidize and start to brown quickly after cutting. To best store cut yellow or red mangoes:
- Prepare mangoes just before eating. Avoid cutting too far in advance.
- If prepping ahead, sprinkle with fresh lemon or lime juice to prevent browning.
- Refrigerate cut mangoes in an airtight container up to 5 days maximum.
- For longer storage, freeze pureed mango or diced chunks up to 6 months.
Proper storage keeps the vitamins, antioxidants, and flavors intact. Now let’s explore the many ways to enjoy these colorful fruits!
Creative Ways to Eat Yellow and Red Mangoes
From smoothies to salsas, here are unique ways to enjoy yellow and red mangoes:
Yellow Mango Ideas
- Throw spears into a spicy mango salad with red onion, jalapeño, cilantro and lime juice
- Blend into mango lassi, a refreshing Indian yogurt drink
- Grill slices for a twist on mango dessert skewers
- Candy into mango jam to spread on toast or swirl into yogurt
Red Mango Ideas
- Puree into tropical red mango ice cream or popsicles
- Mix into fresh mango salsa with red bell pepper and red onion
- Layer slices with coconut whipped cream for a red, white and blue trifle
- Infuse into red mango agua fresca, a traditional Mexican beverage
With their distinctly fruity flavors, both yellow and red mangoes shine in both savory and sweet dishes.
Which is Best: Yellow or Red?
So when it comes down to yellow vs red, which mango variety reigns supreme?
While nutrient-dense red mangoes edge out yellow mangoes slightly, the truth is both types have their merits.
Red mangoes tend to be sweeter and juicier while yellow mangoes offer more tartness and fiber. Which you prefer comes down to your tastebuds.
The good news is that you don’t have to choose! Incorporate both yellow and red mangoes into your diet for a tropical vitamin boost. Mix things up by highlighting their unique qualities in different dishes.
Now that you know how to tell them apart and pick out ripe fruit, you can fully appreciate these nutritious, delectable mangoes in all their colorful glory!
Conclusion
Yellow and red mangoes each offer their own distinct flavors, textures, origins, and health benefits. While red mangoes take the gold for sweetness and antioxidants like vitamin C and lycopene, classic yellow mangoes still pack a nutritious punch.
Choosing ripe, fresh fruit and storing cut mangoes properly ensures you’ll get the most out of these tropical delights. Mix up how you enjoy them by highlighting yellow’s tangy zing and red’s luscious juices in creative dishes. With their versatile flavors and nutrition, both colorful mango varieties deserve a place in your kitchen.
