How Do You Cross Cut a Mango?

To cross cut a mango, you need to score the flesh of the mango in a criss-cross pattern without cutting through the skin.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cross cut a mango, referencing best practices:

Step-by-Step Guide to Cross Cutting a Mango

Secure the Mango: Begin by holding the mango firmly. It's recommended to use a thick tea towel to get a good grip and to prevent the mango from slipping.
Initial Scoring: Using the tip of your knife, score the flesh of the mango in a diagonal pattern along the length of the cheek. Be careful to avoid cutting through the skin.
Creating the Criss-Cross: Turn the mango 90 degrees. Then score the flesh again, using the tip of the knife, in a diagonal pattern that intersects the first set of scores, creating a criss-cross pattern of cuts in the mango flesh. Be sure not to cut through the skin.

Cross cutting a mango serves several purposes:

Easy Removal: The scored pattern makes it easier to scoop or peel the mango flesh away from the skin.
Presentation: The cross cut pattern creates attractive cubes that are visually appealing when served.
Portioning: It naturally portions the mango into bite-sized pieces.

Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will make scoring much easier and safer.
Gentle Pressure: Apply gentle, even pressure while scoring to avoid cutting into the skin.
Practice Makes Perfect: Don't worry if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. You'll get the hang of it with a bit of practice.

Step	Description
1. Secure Mango	Hold mango with thick tea towel
2. Score	Score diagonally along the length, avoiding the skin
3. Criss-Cross	Rotate and score diagonally again to make criss-cross pattern.