Cooking with dried mangos

Dried mangos are every bit as versatile in the kitchen as fresh ones. With the right recipes, they shine in desserts and cakes as well as in savoury dishes.

The mangos we export as fresh produce are in season from the end of March until June in Burkina Faso. Other varieties, which are less suitable for long-distance transport, are dried locally before being exported.

These dried mangos are great for just about any occasion. They are the perfect snack for on the go, such as on a train trip or while hiking. In the morning, they can be conveniently added to your muesli or breakfast cereal. But did you know that you can also use dried mangos as a substitute for fresh ones? Dried mangos can be easily reconstituted by soaking them in water.

How to use dried mangos like fresh ones

Soak the dried mango pieces in water for at least 3 hours or overnight. Then drain well and squeeze out any excess liquid. 50 grams of dried mango gives you about 130-150 grams of fruit once you've drained the excess liquid. You can then cut them into small pieces or purée them. Here is a selection of the most inspiring recipe ideas for you to try.

Mango desserts

Mangos have a pleasant sweetness. The soaked fruit can be used to make excellent ice creams, purées or pastries. Try these homemade mango ice lollies! Mangos add the perfect touch to a layered dessert or as a topping on a refreshing summer cheesecake. Do you like yoghurt? Try stirring some mango purée into it with a bit of vanilla bean paste – it's the most amazing combination!

Savoury mango dishes

Mangos can also provide a delicious hint of tropical flavour to savoury dishes. Finely chopped mangos add a lovely, fruity touch to salads, especially with rice or soba noodles. Puréed mangos are also wonderful in salad dressings, dips and hummus. Do you like making curry? Then you have to try combining mango and peanut butter! Finely slice soaked and drained mango pieces and combine them with chopped onions, fresh coriander, lime juice and a little chilli to make a refreshing salsa for grilled dishes or tacos.

As you can see, the possibilities are endless. What else do you like to make with our dried mangos? Let us know in the comments.