The primary difference between mango ginger (Curcuma amada) and common ginger (Zingiber officinale) lies in their flavour profile and pungency.
While mango ginger belongs to the same plant family (Zingiberaceae) as common ginger and is closely related to turmeric (Curcuma longa), their tastes are quite distinct. As noted by sources, the rhizomes (the edible root-like part) of mango ginger are very similar in appearance to common ginger. However, they lack its characteristic pungency. Instead of the spicy heat associated with common ginger, mango ginger offers a unique raw mango flavour.
This difference in flavour makes them suitable for different culinary applications, although their similar texture and aroma family allow for some overlap.
Key Differences Summarized
Here are the core distinctions between the two:
- Pungency: Common ginger is known for its spicy, warming, and pungent taste. Mango ginger, conversely, has no pungency.
- Flavour: Common ginger has a distinct spicy, slightly peppery, and sweet aroma and taste. Mango ginger tastes distinctly like raw mango, often described as earthy with fruity undertones.
- Botanical Name: While both are in the ginger family, they are different species. Common ginger is Zingiber officinale, and mango ginger is Curcuma amada.
- Relation: Mango ginger is more closely related to turmeric than to common ginger, despite the similarity in their rhizome appearance and being called 'ginger'.
Comparison Table
To illustrate the differences clearly:
| Feature | Mango Ginger (Curcuma amada) | Common Ginger (Zingiber officinale) |
|---|---|---|
| Pungency | Lacks pungency | Pungent and spicy |
| Flavour | Raw mango flavour | Spicy, peppery, warming |
| Rhizome | Similar appearance to ginger | Characteristic knobbly appearance |
| Botanical Family | Zingiberaceae | Zingiberaceae |
| Close Relation | Turmeric (Curcuma longa) | Galangal, Turmeric (less close) |
In essence, if you're looking for the spicy kick, you'll use common ginger. If you want an earthy, slightly fruity, non-pungent flavour resembling green mango, mango ginger is the choice.
