Alphonso mango, also known as Hapus in India, are often referred to as the “King of Mangoes” due to their distinctive flavor, texture, and rich history. Grown primarily in the western Indian regions of Ratnagiri, Devgad, and Sindhudurg, these mangoes stand out among the hundreds of other varieties grown across the country. But what exactly makes Alphonso mangoes different from other mangoes?
1. Unique Taste and Texture
The taste of Alphonso is one of a kind. Alphonso mangoes are not the common variety of mango you often see sitting next to Tommy Atkins in grocery stores, which tend to be stringy and milder on the sweetness scale. Creamy and non-fibrous in texture, they are buttery to eat.
The flavor profile of Alphonso mangoes is also a combination of peach, apricot, and melon with hints of honey and citrus in the background. The reputation of these is due to the combination of flavors that make this a peculiar and better choice.
2. Distinct Appearance
They have a different appearance from the outside that is visually striking with a bright golden yellow skin and sometimes a red blush. It has a thin and tender skin, making it easy to peel. By comparison, many other mango cultivars like the Haden or Ataulfo feature thicker, hardier skins. The Alphonso flesh is bright golden-saffron colored, making it visually appealing as well.
3. Aroma
Smell – The Alphonso mango has a very pronounced and pungent odor. The fruit produces a floral, tropical fragrance that can fill up an entire room. This is based on the presence of a lot of Myrcene cause that exists in abundance in Blue Dream, a natural compound responsible for intense fragrance. The smell is one of the key deductions that helps identify Alphonso mangoes from other mangoes that may be even having very subtle or no particular odor.
4. Geographical Significance and Cultivation
Alphonso mangoes are grown exclusively on the Konkan coast, which is what allows Alphonso to taste so good. The maritime weather and lush volcanic soil provide optimal fruit quality. Geographical Indication (GI) tags like the ones awarded to Alphonso mangoes from places such as Devgad and Ratnagiri are also important because they protect your recipe and prevent people from using imitation varieties.
By contrast, other mango cultivars are grown in varying climates and soils, which affects their flavor and texture. Ideal conditions are required for the environment in which they develop, and environmental factors play a crucial part of what make Alphonso mangoes unique.
5. Export and Demand
Alphonso mangoes are highly sought after both in India and internationally. They are often considered a luxury fruit due to their higher price, driven by both demand and their relatively short harvest season, which runs from April to June. In fact, Alphonso mangoes make up a significant portion of India’s mango exports.
This demand is in stark contrast to other mango varieties, which are more widely available and less expensive. For example, the Tommy Atkins mango, often found in supermarkets worldwide, is known more for its durability and longer shelf life than for its flavor.
6. Health Benefits
In addition to being extremely tasty, Alphonso mangoes are also very healthy. They have lots of antioxidants like beta-carotene and are high in vitamin A: circulatory; C: anti-bacterial. These nutrients help in healthy skin, immune system, and eye health. On top of that, Alphonso mangoes are also rich in both potassium and magnesium to help maintain muscle function and a healthy heart.
Though other types of mangoes also cater health advantages, Alphonso mango comes at the top in holding more nutrients and dietary fibers in comparison to others, making it a healthier snack as well.
Culinary Uses
The Alphonso has wide culinary applications. Otherwise used in dishes like mango lassi, the pulp of Alphonso is also in great demand during summers as a primary ingredient for making rich and succulent Indian ice creams with different flavors. Creamy and smooth, they are great for jellies, chutneys and also provide a good mouthfeel to beverages.
Additionally, many other mango varieties are used in the same or similar dishes but do not bring nearly as much creaminess and complexity of flavor. As an example, mangoes such as the Kent or Haden are frequently used raw in salads or as a topping, but their stringy texture and pungent taste would make them less ideal for fatty sweets.
The Bottom Line
Of all the different types of mangoes grown around the world, Alphonso mangoes are in a league of their own. For numerous fruit aficionados, however, it is the full-bodied texture, pungent aroma, and perfumy taste that are found only in Kesar mangoes that make these fruits the trove of all mangos.
The unique method in which they are grown and their indigenous nature make them even more endearing as well as therapeutic. Some other mangoes may have their own charming characteristics, but the Alphonso mango supersedes all others when it comes to eating and enjoyment hence, the “King of Mangoes.”
