Raw mango storage tips: Raw mangoes are a summer staple in many Indian households. Whether you use them to make refreshing drinks like aam panna, tangy pickles, or spicy chutneys, having raw mangoes on hand can be a real kitchen delight. However, raw mangoes tend to ripen or spoil quickly if not stored properly. The good news is — with a few simple techniques, you can extend their shelf life and enjoy their taste for weeks or even months.
Here are 5 easy and effective tips to help you store raw mangoes for a long time:
1. Wrap in Newspaper and Store in a Cool Place
One of the oldest and most trusted methods of storing raw mangoes is wrapping them in newspaper. This helps reduce the exposure to air and slows down the ripening process.
- Take each mango and wrap it individually in newspaper or brown paper.
- Place the wrapped mangoes in a single layer in a basket or tray.
- Keep them in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct sunlight.
This method helps absorb moisture and delays fermentation. Raw mango storage tips, It can keep raw mangoes fresh for up to 2 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.
2. Sun-Dry Them Thoroughly
If you want to store raw mangoes for months, drying them is a great idea. This is especially useful if you’re planning to use them later for pickles or chutneys.
- Wash and peel the raw mangoes.
- Cut them into thin slices or small pieces.
- Spread them out on a clean cotton cloth or tray.
- Place them in direct sunlight for 2 to 3 days, turning them occasionally.
Once the mango pieces are completely dry and have lost their moisture, you can store them in an airtight container for several months. Make sure there’s no moisture left to avoid mold or spoilage.
3. Use Airtight Containers or Glass Jars
After drying or cutting raw mangoes, storing them in proper containers is crucial to keeping them fresh.
- Use air-tight glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers.
- Before storing, ensure the container is completely dry and sterilized.
- Add a pinch of salt or turmeric to the Raw mango storage tips pieces to enhance shelf life and prevent bacterial growth.
Store the jars in a dry kitchen cabinet or pantry. Proper sealing will help prevent oxidation and keep insects or moisture at bay.
4. Refrigerate in a Ziplock or Container
If you’re looking to store raw mangoes just for a week or two, refrigeration works perfectly. Here’s how to do it right.
- Wash the mangoes and let them air dry completely.
- Wrap them loosely in a paper towel to absorb moisture.
- Store them in zip-lock bags or airtight containers and place them in the fridge’s vegetable compartment.
This method helps retain the mango’s firmness and prevents early ripening. Don’t store raw mangoes in plastic bags directly without wrapping — trapped moisture can speed up spoilage.
5. Preserve as Pickles, Chutneys, or Concentrates
One of the most delicious ways to store raw mangoes long-term is by converting them into pickles, chutneys, or preserves.
- Prepare mango pickles using oil, salt, and spices — these can last up to a year if stored well.
- Mango chutneys or sauces, when refrigerated, can last for 2 to 3 months.
- You can also prepare aam panna concentrate from raw mangoes and refrigerate it in a sterilized bottle.
This method not only extends shelf life but also offers flavor-packed ingredients ready to be used anytime.
Additional Tips to Keep in Mind
- Always select firm, unripe, and blemish-free mangoes for long-term storage.
- Avoid washing mangoes before storage unless sun-drying or refrigerating them. Moisture speeds up spoilage.
- Inspect stored mangoes regularly for signs of mold, soft spots, or foul smell, and remove any spoiled ones immediately.
Raw mango storage tips, With these five easy storage techniques, you can make the most of raw mangoes long after summer ends. Whether you prefer to dry them in the sun, store them in jars, refrigerate them, or turn them into pickles — preserving raw mangoes is simple when done right. Not only do these methods reduce waste, but they also ensure that you always have that tangy kick of raw mango ready to spice up your meals.
