Mangoes are often called the “king of fruits,” and for good reason. Their rich, juicy flavor, fragrant aroma, and vibrant color make them a summer favorite around the world—especially when they’re the premium Pakistani mangoes known for their unrivaled sweetness. But to enjoy them at their best, you need to know how to ripen and store them the right way.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through expert-approved tips on mango ripening and storage to ensure every bite is as delicious as nature intended.
Why Proper Ripening Matters
Ripening mangoes properly helps unlock their full sweetness, soft texture, and signature aroma. If ripened too quickly or improperly stored, they can develop an unpleasant texture or lose their flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Ripen Mangoes at Home
- Room Temperature Method (Best for Flavor)
- Place unripe mangoes on the kitchen counter at room temperature (between 20–25°C).
- Keep them in a paper bag or wrap them in newspaper to concentrate the natural ethylene gas they release.
- Within 2–5 days, they’ll turn soft to the touch and give off a fruity fragrance.
- Pro Tip: Add a banana or apple in the bag to speed up ripening naturally.
2. The Rice or Hay Method (Traditional Pakistani Tip)
- In rural Pakistan, mangoes are often ripened by burying them in rice or straw.
- The grains trap ethylene and provide a natural humid environment, helping mangoes ripen evenly.
- Works well for bulk ripening.
3. Avoid Refrigeration (Until Fully Ripe)
- Never store unripe mangoes in the fridge—it halts the ripening process.
- Once fully ripe, you can refrigerate them to extend shelf life by 4–5 days.
How to Know When a Mango is Ripe
Here’s how to check if your mango is ready to eat:
- Touch: It should yield slightly to gentle pressure, like a ripe avocado.
- Smell: A sweet, fruity aroma near the stem end.
- Color: Depending on the variety (Chaunsa, Sindhri, Anwar Ratol), color may vary from greenish-yellow to deep golden.
- Feel: Avoid overly soft spots or wrinkled skin—these are signs of overripeness.
Best Practices for Storing Mangoes
Unripe Mangoes: Keep at room temperature in a ventilated space.
Ripe Mangoes: Store in the fridge in the vegetable drawer. Wrap in a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
Cut Mangoes: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Sprinkle a few drops of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Closing Thoughts
Knowing how to store and ripen mangoes properly makes all the difference between a bland bite and a burst of tropical delight. Follow these simple steps and enjoy your Pakistani mangoes at their juicy, flavorful best.
Whether you’re indulging in a slice of Chaunsa on a hot afternoon or adding mango to your favorite dessert, remember—it all starts with proper care.
