Cutting a mango doesn’t have to be messy or intimidating—it’s a quick, rewarding skill that unlocks its juicy, tropical sweetness. In just 5 minutes, you’ll master the technique to reveal its vibrant, golden flesh, perfect for snacking, salads, or smoothies. The smooth, buttery texture and rich, honey-like flavor make every bite feel like a mini vacation.
Whether you’re adding it to a dish or enjoying it fresh, a perfectly cut mango elevates your experience with its luscious, melt-in-your-mouth quality. Its natural sweetness pairs beautifully with tangy, spicy, or creamy flavors, making it a versatile star in your kitchen. Once you try this method, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner!
What You’ll Need?
- 1 ripe mango (choose one that’s slightly soft to the touch and fragrant)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting a Mango
- Cut off the sides of the mango: Place the mango on a cutting board with one long, skinny edge facing down. Position your knife slightly left of the pit in the center and slice downward to remove one side. Repeat on the other side.
- Score each mango side: Set the pit aside. Place one mango half skin-side-down on the cutting board. Use your knife to score the flesh in a grid pattern, cutting down to the skin but not through it. Gently invert the skin to push the mango cubes outward.
- Slice off the mango flesh: Slide your knife laterally across the scored mango side to separate the cubes from the skin. Repeat with the other side.
- Enjoy: Eat the mango as is, or use it in your favorite recipes that call for diced mango.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Mango
Once you’ve mastered cutting your mango, try adding it to a fruit salad with pineapple and kiwi, or blend it into a smoothie with yogurt and honey. For a savory twist, toss mango cubes into a spinach salad with avocado and a lime vinaigrette. It’s also a delicious topping for grilled chicken or fish tacos!
Quick Storage Tips for Fresh Mango
If you’re not eating your mango right away, store the cubes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the mango pieces on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag—they’ll stay fresh for up to 6 months and are perfect for smoothies or desserts!
Time-Saving Hacks for Cutting Mango
To speed up the process, use a mango slicer tool, which removes the pit and slices the fruit in one motion. If you’re cutting multiple mangoes, score all the sides first, then slice off the cubes in batches. This keeps your workflow efficient and mess-free!
Common Questions About Mango Prep
How do I know if a mango is ripe? Gently squeeze it—it should give slightly, like a ripe avocado. Can I eat the skin? While it’s edible, it’s often tough and bitter, so it’s best to remove it. What do I do with the pit? Scrape off any remaining flesh with a spoon or knife—it’s too good to waste!
Special Notes for Perfect Mango Cubes
Choose a mango that’s slightly soft to the touch for easier cutting. If your mango is too firm, let it ripen on the counter for a day or two. For a mess-free experience, cut the mango over a bowl to catch any juice—it’s a sweet bonus you won’t want to lose!
How to Cut a Mango
Ingredients
- 1 ripe mango
Instructions
- Cut off the sides of the mango: Place the mango on a cutting board, with one long, skinny edge facing down. Place your knife across the mango lengthwise, slightly left of the pit in the center. Slice downward to cut the side of the mango off the pit. Repeat the same motion on the other side.
- Score each mango side: Set the pit aside, and place one of the mango sides skin-side-down on the cutting board. Use your knife to score the mango flesh in a grid pattern, cutting down to the skin but not through it. Use your fingers to invert the skin and flatten it against the cutting board.
- Slice off the mango flesh: Slice laterally across the scored mango side to separate the mango cubes from the skin. Repeat the scoring and slicing process with the other side.
- Enjoy the mango on its own, or add it to any recipe that calls for diced mango.