Enjoy a naturally sweet beverage when you juice mango alone or make blended mango drinks. Mango beverages are among the most popular in India, Mexico, Italy, and other countries where it grows naturally year-round. Try some of these tasty and refreshing recipes on a hot afternoon.
Mango Nutrition
Mangoes are 84 percent water. They quickly hydrate you after exercise or when you feel that mid-afternoon slump in energy. They contain 210 ug of vitamin A, one of the highest levels among fruit. One serving gives you 76 percent of the daily requirement for vitamin C. Additionally, mangoes contain moderate levels of vitamins E and the B complex.
Canned vs. Fresh Mango
Canned and fresh mango are interchangeable in most beverage recipes. Canned mango is always fully ripe. If your recipe calls for green mango, then buy a fresh one from the grocer.
Mango Lassi
Lassi refers to beverages that have yogurt. Make mango lassi with equal amounts of ripe mango and yogurt. Add a tablespoon of honey for added sweetness, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Mix everything with a cup of cracked ice in a blender for about 15 seconds. Thin with water to desired consistency.
Mango Orange Breakfast Drink
Combine one cup orange juice, one cup ripened mango pulp and 2 tablespoons sugar in a blender. Pulse for a few seconds until thoroughly blended. Pour over ice for a chilled and nutritious breakfast drink. This recipe makes delicious frozen fruit pops for the kids.
Mango Iced Tea
After brewing a pot of black tea, add 2 cups mango nectar and 1/4 cup sugar in a saucepan. Stir until dissolved. Pour into a 2-quart iced tea pitcher. Serve over ice.
Panna
Use raw, green mango when making panna. Scrape out the pulp and measure 3 cups. Simmer in 2 cups of water about 15 minutes, until tender. Add 1 cup sugar, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon cumin and 1/4 cup fresh mint. Blend thoroughly. Add water to the thick pulp mixture until it reaches the desired consistency. Strain the beverage if you prefer mango drinks without pulp.
