How India Savours Raw Mangoes In Summer: 7 Traditional Favourites

With the arrival of summer, Indian kitchens begin to carry the distinctive tangy scent of raw mangoes. People know this unripe fruit as kaccha aam or kairi and prize it for its refreshing flavour and nutritional value.

Its cooling nature makes it ideal for coping with rising temperatures, while its sourness enriches everyday meals.

Aam panna remains one of the most loved beverages made from raw mangoes. It is prepared by cooking the mangoes and blending the pulp with mint, roasted cumin, black salt, and sugar. This drink helps cool the body and reduces the risk of heat-related ailments.

Raw mango pickle continues to be a cherished preparation across India. People dry mango pieces under the sun before mixing them with mustard oil, salt, and spices like fenugreek, fennel, and red chilli powder.

Once matured, it lasts for months and pairs well with a variety of meals.

In southern regions such as Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, cooks add raw mango to lentils to prepare aam dal. The dish balances the tangy flavour of mango with the richness of dal and typically pairs it with plain rice.

Kairi rice, also referred to as mango sadam, combines grated raw mango with cooked rice. Mustard seeds, curry leaves, peanuts, and green chillies temper the dish, creating a simple yet flavourful preparation.

People across northern India widely enjoy aam ki launji as a sweet and tangy accompaniment. They cook raw mango with jaggery, fennel seeds, and spices to create a rich relish that complements dishes like parathas and cheela.

Raw mango is also used to create refreshing salads. When mixed with onions, green chillies, coriander, and spices, it delivers a crisp and cooling side dish that goes well with everyday meals.

Cooks prepare kairi chutney by blending raw mango with coriander leaves, ginger, garlic, green chillies, and salt. A touch of mustard oil enhances its taste, making it a versatile accompaniment for a wide range of savoury foods.

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