Mango: King of Fruits
Mango, often called the King of Fruits, is one of the most loved tropical fruits across the world. Known for its rich flavour, sweetness, and aroma, mangoes are enjoyed fresh, in desserts, juices, and countless traditional recipes.
But when mango season arrives, many fruit lovers ask the same question: which mango is best?
The answer depends on personal preference, as different mango varieties offer unique tastes, textures, and aromas.
Most Famous Mango Varieties Around the World.
Let’s explore some of the most famous mango varieties around the world and understand what makes them special.
Finally, a comparison table will tell you in a better way which mango is the best.
1. Alphonso Mango – The King of Mangoes
When people talk about the best mango, Alphonso (locally known as Hapus) often tops the list. Grown mainly in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra (India), Alphonso is prized for its golden-yellow colour, creamy texture, and rich sweetness.
- Flavour profile: Sweet, aromatic, non-fibrous, and buttery.
- Best use: Eaten fresh, used in mango pulp, ice creams, and shakes.
- Why it’s special: The perfect balance of sweetness and tang, along with its smooth texture, makes it one of the most expensive and sought-after mangoes globally.
2. Dasheri Mango – The Oldest Variety
Originating from Uttar Pradesh, India, Dasheri is one of the oldest and most popular mango varieties. Its slender shape and long seed make it instantly recognisable.
- Flavour profile: Intensely sweet with a unique fragrance.
- Best use: Consumed fresh or in mango-based desserts.
- Why it’s special: Known as the “mother of mangoes,” Dasheri trees have been producing fruit for centuries.
3. Kesar Mango – The Queen of Mangoes
Another gem from Gujarat, India, is the Kesar mango, often called the “Queen of Mangoes.” It gets its name from its saffron-colored pulp.
- Flavour profile: Juicy, fragrant, and slightly tangy.
- Best use: Mango pulp, smoothies, and traditional sweets like aamras.
- Why it’s special: Its distinct saffron-like colour and taste make it highly popular both in India and abroad.
4. Langra Mango – The Green Delight
Langra mango is widely grown in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Unlike other mangoes, it retains its green skin even when ripe.
- Flavour profile: Sweet and tangy, with a fibrous texture.
- Best use: Ideal for fresh consumption and pickles.
- Why it’s special: Its unique green skin and bold flavour make it stand out among Indian varieties.
5. Haden Mango – The American Favourite
Moving beyond India, Haden mango from Florida, USA, is one of the most popular international varieties.
- Flavour profile: Sweet with mild acidity, firm flesh, and vibrant red-yellow skin.
- Best use: Fresh salads, smoothies, and salsas.
- Why it’s special: Haden was one of the first mangoes grown commercially in the United States and remains a supermarket favourite.
6. Carabao Mango – The Filipino Pride
From the Philippines comes the Carabao mango, also known as the Manila mango. It has even been recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the sweetest mango in the world.
- Flavour profile: Extremely sweet and tender.
- Best use: Juices, dried mango, and fresh eating.
- Why it’s special: Loved for its consistent sweetness and thin seeds, which yield more pulp.
7. Tommy Atkins Mango – Global Export Leader
Though not as sweet as Alphonso or Carabao, Tommy Atkins mango is the most widely exported mango worldwide, especially from Mexico and South America.
- Flavour profile: Mildly sweet with firm, fibrous flesh.
- Best use: Shipping, storage, and international export.
- Why it’s special: Its long shelf life and resistance to bruising make it the most common mango in global markets.
Mango Varieties Comparison Table:
Here is a comparison table that tells you in a concise manner which mango variety is best.
| Mango Variety | Origin (Main Region) | Sweetness Level | Texture | Best Use | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alphonso | Ratnagiri, Maharashtra | Very Sweet | Creamy, Non-fibrous | Fresh, pulp, desserts | Rich aroma & buttery taste |
| Dasheri | Uttar Pradesh, India | Sweet | Soft, Juicy | Fresh, traditional desserts | One of the oldest varieties |
| Kesar | Gujarat, India | Sweet-Tangy | Juicy, Aromatic | Aamras, smoothies, pulp | Saffron-colored pulp |
| Langra | UP & Bihar, India | Sweet-Tangy | Fibrous | Fresh, pickles | Stays green even when ripe |
| Haden | Florida, USA | Sweet + Mild Acidity | Firm, Non-fibrous | Salads, smoothies, salsas | First commercial US mango |
| Carabao | Philippines | Very Sweet | Tender, Juicy | Juices, dried mango, fresh | Guinness-certified sweetest |
| Tommy Atkins | Mexico, South America | Mildly Sweet | Firm, Fibrous | Export, long storage | Long shelf life & hardy |
Also Read: Top Mango Producing Country in the World: A Deep Dive into the Mango Powerhouse.
Also Read: Top 10 World’s Most Popular Mango Varieties.
So, Which Mango is Truly the Best?
Choosing the “best” mango depends on what you value most:
- For sweetness and aroma, Alphonso and Carabao are top contenders.
- For affordability and availability: Dasheri, Langra, and Tommy Atkins are excellent choices.
- For uniqueness in colour and flavour, Kesar and Haden stand out.
Ultimately, the best mango is the one that satisfies your taste buds and brings joy to your summer. Whether you prefer the rich creaminess of Alphonso, the tang of Langra, or the tropical sweetness of Carabao, mango lovers can agree on one thing—every variety of mango is a treasure.
Final Tip: Next time mango season arrives, don’t stick to just one type. Try different varieties and discover your personal favourite.
After all, with mangoes, there’s no wrong choice—only sweet ones!
