To pick a ripe mango, gently squeeze it. A ripe mango will yield slightly to pressure.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Feel is Key: The most reliable indicator of ripeness is how the mango feels. A ripe mango should give slightly when you gently press it with your fingers. It should feel similar to a ripe peach or avocado. If it's rock hard, it needs more time to ripen.
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Don't Rely on Color: While some mango varieties change color as they ripen, many do not. Therefore, color is not a consistent indicator of ripeness. Focus on the feel of the mango instead. Some varieties might stay green even when ripe.
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Smell (Optional): Some people also use smell as an indicator. Ripe mangoes often have a sweet, fruity aroma near the stem end. However, this isn't always reliable.
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Avoid Bruises: Look for mangoes that are free from bruises or blemishes.
In summary, prioritize the "feel" test. Gently squeeze the mango; it should give slightly to pressure. Disregard the color, and consider the smell only as a supplementary indicator.
