The national fruit of India, Pakistan and the Philippines, the mango is a stone fruit native to the Indian subcontinent. Known for their sweet, slightly sour flavor the mango is a great addition to any blend that needs a little hint of tropical flavor. This versatile fruit pairs well with apple, berries, caramel, citrus, coconut, melon, vanilla, and cinnamon.
Mangoes originated in Southeast Asia, where they had been cultivated for over 4,000 years. Since their discovery, mango groves have spread to many parts of the world, though mostly the tropical and sub-tropical climates. There are over 1,000 different varieties of the mango plant in existence, and India alone produces half of the world's supply. Mangoes are used widely in the culinary world, from sweet sticky rice to delicate chutneys, to spicy and savory pickles. It's also an important part of non-food life in several cultures; both the fruit and leaves are used for decoration, religious ceremonies, and weddings.
