Essential Tips for Storing Mangoes During Summer Heat
As summer approaches, the spotlight shines on the beloved mango, often referred to as the 'King of Fruits.' However, this year’s extreme heat and relentless heatwaves have raised concerns among mango enthusiasts. A frequent issue reported is that raw mangoes purchased from markets or orchards tend to shrivel, dry out, or harden instead of ripening properly at home. If you find yourself facing this problem, there’s no need for alarm. Traditional methods suggested by seasoned orchardists and elders can help retain the moisture in mangoes. By implementing these techniques, you can ensure that your mangoes ripen naturally, staying juicy and sweet.
Understanding Why Mangoes Dry Out
High temperatures and low humidity levels are the main culprits behind mangoes drying out. When raw mangoes are left in an open basket, especially in dry air from fans or coolers, they lose moisture quickly. This leads to the mangoes drying out externally before they have a chance to ripen internally.
A Common Mistake to Avoid:
Many individuals make the error of placing mangoes directly in the refrigerator to keep them from drying. This should be avoided at all costs. Exposure to cold temperatures will prevent raw mangoes from ripening naturally and will ruin their flavor.
Three Effective Traditional Techniques for Ripening Mangoes:
- The Reliable Cotton Cloth and Newspaper Method: Avoid leaving raw mangoes exposed to air. Start by taking a wooden or plastic basket and lining the bottom with 2-3 layers of newspaper. Arrange the mangoes so they touch each other.
- Cover them with a lightly dampened cotton cloth (make sure to wring it out so it retains just a bit of moisture). This will help maintain the temperature around the mangoes and prevent moisture loss.
- The Time-Tested Rice Method: This traditional Indian technique is still very effective. Simply bury the raw mangoes slightly in your rice storage container. Rice emits ethylene gas, which aids in ripening, and also protects the mangoes from dry air, ensuring they remain juicy.