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Soaking mangoes can remove harmful and unwanted substances from the skin of the mango. Read on to know more reasons to soak mango before eating.
- Written by: Manali Momaya
- Updated at: Apr 29, 2024 18:16 IST
The most exciting thing about summers for me has always been the arrival of mangoes. Fresh from the farms of Ratnagiri, the alphonso mangoes spread their sweet aroma in our house the entire summer. But, one thing I have been noticing since childhood is that my granny would always soak mangoes for 1-2 hours before eating. In this article, let’s understand why we should soak mangoes before consuming them.
OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Abhilasha V, Chief Clinical Nutritionist, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bengaluru, to know the reason for soaking mangoes. Here are some reasons why mangoes are to be soaked before eating.
Cleaning and Removing Residue
According to Abhilasha, Mangoes, like many fruits, may have residues such as dirt, pesticides, or waxes on their skin. “Soaking mangoes in water helps to clean the surface and remove any unwanted substances. This can be particularly important if the mangoes are conventionally grown and may have pesticide residues,” she said. Washing or soaking fruits before consumption is generally recommended as part of good food hygiene practices.
Removing Sap and Irritants
“The skin and sap of the mango contain compounds like urushiol, which can cause skin irritation or ignite allergic reactions in some people, especially to those sensitive to poison ivy of poison oak,” Abhilasha said. Soaking mangoes in the water can help in removing these compounds which reduce the risk of skin irritation.
Also read:Can You Eat Mangoes If You Are Diabetic? Expert Shares What You Need To Know
Softening and Ripening
Soaking mangoes can help speed the ripening process. Mangoes also get soft and easy to cut and juice it. “This can be beneficial if you have firm or slightly under ripe mangoes that you want to make juicier and more flavorful before eating. Soaking can help enhance the texture and sweetness of the fruit,” Abhilasha said.
Enhancing Flavor and Juiciness
Soaking mangoes, especially when they are slightly underripe, can improve their taste and juiciness. “As the mango absorbs water, it can become plumper and more succulent, enhancing the overall eating experience,” said Abhilasha.
Reducing Potential Allergens
“For people with mango allergies or sensitivities, soaking the fruit in water may help reduce the concentration of allergens on the skin or surface,” said Abhilasha. However, it's essential to note that soaking may not completely eliminate allergens, and those with severe allergies should exercise caution or avoid mangoes altogether.
Cultural or Traditional Practice
In some cultures or regions, soaking mangoes before consumption is a customary practice believed to enhance flavor, cleanliness, or health benefits. Cultural traditions often emphasize certain food preparation methods for perceived health benefits or flavor enhancement.
Also read:Can Eating Mangoes Cause Acne? Here's What The Dermatologist Says
How to Soak Mangoes Before Eating
If you decide to soak mangoes before eating them, here's a simple method you can follow.
Choose Ripe or Slightly Under Ripe Mangoes: Select mangoes that are firm and have a slight give when pressed, indicating ripeness.
Wash the Mangoes: Rinse the mangoes under cool running water to remove any visible dirt or contaminants.
Fill a Bowl with Water: Place the mangoes in a bowl filled with clean, room-temperature water. Ensure that the mangoes are fully submerged.
Soak for 15-30 Minutes: Allow the mangoes to soak for about 15 to 30 minutes. This duration is sufficient to clean the skin, soften the fruit slightly, and potentially reduce surface allergens.
Remove and Dry: After soaking, remove the mangoes from the water and pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Peel and Enjoy: Use a knife to peel the mangoes or slice them as desired. The softened texture and potentially enhanced flavor can make the mangoes more enjoyable to eat.
While soaking mangoes before eating can have benefits, it's essential to handle and store fruits properly to minimize the risk of contamination or spoilage. Additionally, individuals with known allergies or sensitivities should consult a healthcare professional before consuming mangoes or any other potentially allergenic foods.
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