Devgad Alphonso Mangoes: All about the king of mangoes and how to identify the genuine ones
Alphonso mangoes are famous worldwide for their superior attributes such as excellent taste, unique aroma, juicy flesh, vibrant color and thin & blemish free skin.
They are considered to be the best variety among all mangoes in the world and are often called as the ‘King of Mangoes’. Alphonso mangoes are grown in Devgad and Ratnagiri in the Konkan belt of Maharashtra.
Only those mangoes that are grown in these regions are entitled to be called as Alphonso or Hapus mangoes. Devgad and Ratnagiri regions provide a unique combination of summer heat, humidity, sunlight and rain to create ideal conditions for this fruit to be of such high quality. In addition, organic practices adopted by mango farmers in this region since centuries impart irresistible sweetness, aroma and texture to these mangoes.
Health Benefits of Alphonso Mangoes
Alphonso mangoes are not only delicious but also healthy. They contain essential vitamins and minerals. They’re also high in fiber, making them both tasty and healthy. Consuming mangoes can improve digestion due to their high fiber content and promote eye health. They also boost the immune system and reduce the risk of certain cancers.
These mangoes are naturally ripened in a stack of hay, a natural haystack, and rice straw. This process ensures production of natural sugars imparting the fruit a rich taste and aroma.
Understanding the Types of Alphonso Mangoes
Let’s now explore the different types of Alphonso mangoes. Primarily grown in Maharashtra’s Ratnagiri and Devgad regions, these Hafoos are loved for their sweet taste, rich texture, and golden yellow hue.
The Ratnagiri Hapus and Devgad Hapus are the most popular varieties, each with unique characteristics. Both types offer a tender texture, a delightful fruit experience, and a perfect blend of aromatic sourness.
How to Identify Original Alphonso Mango
Nowadays mangoes grown in other regions or artificially ripened mangoes are being passed on as genuine Alphonso mangoes. Since Alphonso mangoes fetch a high price, it is tempting for counterfeiters to push inferior mangoes as Alphonso to the unsuspecting buyers. Here are some tips to identify genuine naturally ripened Alphonso mangoes.
- Alphonso Mangoes show gradients of yellow & green color. Fully ripened fruits are luxurious golden color
- They look and feel soft if they are naturally ripened in grass hay
- The sweet, strong fragrance of Alphonso is noticeable from distance
- They should not show wrinkles. If they are over ripe, they show wrinkles
- Alphonso mangoes have smooth, non-fibrous flesh that melts in your mouth. When gently pressed, the mango should yield slightly without being too mushy. Counterfeit mangoes may have fibrous or stringy textures, indicating a different variety
- Genuine, naturally ripened Alphonso mangoes peel like a banana and have a thin skin
- Look for Geographical Indication (GI) tags, such as the one granted to Ratnagiri Alphonso mangoes, are reliable indicators of the fruit’s origin
Can Mangoes be Kept in the Fridge
Yes, absolutely! After delivery, you can keep ripe mangos in the fridge to extend their freshness. To speed up ripening, place them in a paper bag. However, avoid storing them near strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption. If they are underripe, keep them at room temperature to ripen. For the best taste, remember to consume them within a few days of ripening.
Weight of Alphonso Mango at Harvest | Change During Ripening
Hapus mangoes weigh between 150g to 300g while harvesting. They get lighter as they ripen because of moisture loss, which makes them more flavorful. But the quality does not decrease due to this natural change.
Natural Ripening Process of Mangoes
They are highly prized due to their natural ripening process. Unlike other varieties, Alphonso mangos ripen naturally on the tree, resulting in a tender texture and golden yellow hue. The finishing of ripening is done by keeping the fruit in a stack of hey. Konkani weather and the climate in the week of June together contribute to their rich taste.
Genuine Alphonso mangoes are ripened naturally without any harmful chemicals, to maintain their excellent quality. Alphonso from the Devgad and Ratnagiri districts are famous for their great taste and texture. The best quality is available during the first week of June when the season peaks.
