Indian mangoes bring warmth and colour to the UK summer. Their flavour is unlike any other fruit. Indian mangoes offer something for every taste. You will find silky sweet varieties as well as tangy and fragrant ones. Many people wait all year for the short season when these fruits arrive in local Asian grocers and online stores.
Their aroma can remind you of sunny orchards and long summer afternoons. This blog will cover ten popular Indian mango varieties available in the UK.
Kesar
- Origin: Grown in Gujarat, particularly in the Girnar Hills near Junagadh
- Season: May to July
- Taste: Sweet with a gentle aromatic touch
- Uses: Fresh eating, desserts, smoothies, pulp
Kesar is one of the most loved Indian mangoes because of its bright orange flesh and soft fragrance. The flavour is naturally sweet and balanced. The fruit has little fibre and blends smoothly into recipes.
Alphonso
- Origin: Grown in Maharashtra, mainly in Ratnagiri and Devgad
- Season: May to June
- Taste: Rich, creamy, and intensely sweet
- Uses: Premium desserts, fresh eating, preserves
Alphonso is often called the king of Indian mangoes. Even a single Alphonso can fill a room with fragrance. People love to eat it as it is. But it also works wonderfully in cheesecakes, custards, and mango creams. Imported boxes sell quickly every season because this variety is considered a true luxury fruit.
Badami
- Origin: Grown in Karnataka, especially around Chikkaballapur and Kolar
- Season: April to June
- Taste: Sweet with a mild nutty note
- Uses: Salads, chutneys, fresh slices
Badami has a gentle character and is sometimes compared to Alphonso. The flesh is soft, smooth, and pleasantly sweet. Among Indian mangoes, Badami is excellent for light recipes such as fruit salads and chilled desserts. Many UK shoppers choose this variety when they want a fragrant mango that is not too heavy in flavour.
Payri
- Origin: Grown in Karnataka, mainly in the coastal districts of Mangalore
- Season: June to August
- Taste: Sweet and juicy with floral hints
- Uses: Juices, pulp, and everyday eating
Payri is a refreshing member of the Indian mango family. The fruit gives a large amount of thick juice. So it is popular for homemade mango drinks. The sweetness is gentle, and the aroma is pleasant.
Langda
- Origin: Grown in Uttar Pradesh, particularly around Varanasi and Pratapgarh
- Season: June to July
- Taste: Sweet with a light tang
- Uses: Fresh eating, pickles, puree
Langda has a distinctive shape and slightly fibrous flesh. The flavour mixes sweetness with a refreshing sour touch. They are excellent for aamras and spicy pickles.
Dasheri
- Origin: Grown in Uttar Pradesh, especially in Malihabad near Lucknow
- Season: May to July
- Taste: Mild, aromatic, and sweet
- Uses: Purees, salads, light desserts
Dasheri is a classic variety among Indian mangoes and is known for its long shape and delicate flavour. It is less intense than Alphonso, which makes it perfect for those who prefer soft sweetness. The fruit slices neatly and look beautiful on dessert plates. Many UK families buy Dasheri for regular snacking.
Neelam
- Origin: Grown in Andhra Pradesh, mainly around Nellore and Chittoor
- Season: June to August
- Taste: Sweet with balanced acidity
- Uses: Smoothies, chutneys, sauces
Neelam arrives slightly later in the summer and extends the Indian mango season in the UK. The taste has a pleasant mix of sweet and tangy notes. It works well in both sweet and savoury dishes. The flesh is juicy and fragrant.
Banginapalli
- Origin: Grown in Andhra Pradesh, particularly in the Banaganapalle region of Kurnool
- Season: June to August
- Taste: Rich and naturally sweet
- Uses: Slicing, desserts, mango cream
Banginapalli is large with smooth, fibreless flesh. Among Indian mangoes, it is known for giving big, clean slices that look attractive in salads. The sweetness is comforting and consistent. UK buyers often choose this variety when they want a mango that is easy to serve to guests.
Totapuri
- Origin: Grown in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, especially around Salem and Mysuru
- Season: May to July
- Taste: Mildly tangy and firm
- Uses: Pickles, cooking and salads
Totapuri is different from many other Indian mangoes. It has a firmer texture and a slight sour edge. It is widely used for making pickles and chutneys. This makes it perfect for savoury recipes in UK kitchens.
Chaunsa
- Origin: Grown in northern plains, particularly around Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh
- Season: June to August
- Taste: Extremely sweet and fragrant
- Uses: Fresh eating, shakes and desserts
Chaunsa is famous for its deep sweetness and strong perfume. The flesh is soft, juicy, and almost melts in the mouth. Fans of Indian mangoes in the UK often wait specifically for the Chaunsa season. It tastes wonderful when chilled and is ideal for thick mango shakes.
Conclusion
Indian mangoes are becoming an increasingly sought-after summer treat in the UK, with varieties offering everything from creamy, rich textures to tangy tastes that will leave you feeling refreshed. Each variety speaks to the place in which it is grown. Check local stores this season and taste a new variety to find your own favourite.