Ingredients
- Mangoes: 2-3 large, ripe but still firm mangoes. (Varieties like Kent, Keitt, or even Tommy Atkins work well as they tend to be less fibrous and hold their shape better when grilled. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be overly soft or mushy.)
- Oil: 1-2 tablespoons of a neutral-flavored oil with a relatively high smoke point.
- Recommended: Coconut oil (melted) complements the tropical flavor beautifully.
- Alternatives: Avocado oil, light olive oil, or canola oil.
- Lime Juice (Optional but Recommended): 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice. This adds a lovely tang that balances the sweetness and helps prevent the mango from browning too much.
- Sweetener (Optional): 1 tablespoon honey, maple syrup, or light brown sugar. This can enhance caramelization and add an extra layer of sweetness, especially if your mangoes aren’t at peak ripeness.
- Spice (Optional):
- A pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- A pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger for warmth.
- Skewers:
- Wooden Skewers: If using, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Metal Skewers: These are reusable and don’t require soaking.
Instructions
- Prepare the Skewers (if using wooden):
- If you’re using wooden or bamboo skewers, place them in a shallow dish, cover them with water, and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from charring too much or catching fire on the grill. Metal skewers do not require this step.
- Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat your grill (gas or charcoal) to medium or medium-high heat (around 375-450°F or 190-230°C).
- Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a grill brush to prevent sticking and remove any old debris.
- Lightly oil the grates by wiping them with a paper towel dipped in a high-smoke-point oil (use tongs to hold the paper towel).
- Prepare the Mangoes:
- Wash the mangoes.
- The best way to cut a mango for skewers is to first slice off the “cheeks” (the two fleshy sides) by cutting lengthwise along each side of the flat, oblong pit.
- Score the flesh of each cheek in a crisscross pattern down to the skin, but not through it. Then, you can either invert the skin so the cubes pop out, or use a spoon to scoop out the flesh. Alternatively, peel the cheeks with a knife or vegetable peeler and then cut the flesh into 1 to 1.5-inch chunks.
- Cut the remaining flesh from around the pit and dice it into similar-sized chunks. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Season/Marinate the Mango (Optional but Recommended):
- In a medium bowl, gently toss the mango chunks with your chosen oil (e.g., melted coconut oil).
- If using, add the fresh lime juice and optional sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar) and/or spices (chili powder, cinnamon). Toss very gently to coat the mango pieces evenly without mashing them. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes if you have time, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Thread the Mango onto Skewers:
- Carefully thread the mango chunks onto the prepared skewers. Don’t pack them too tightly; leave a little space between pieces if possible, or just ensure they are not squished. This helps them cook more evenly. Depending on the size of your chunks, you’ll get about 3-5 pieces per skewer.
- Grill the Mango Skewers:
- Place the mango skewers directly on the preheated, oiled grill grates.
- Grill for about 2-4 minutes per side. You’re looking for nice grill marks, slight caramelization, and for the mango to become tender and heated through. The exact time will depend on the heat of your grill and the ripeness/size of your mango chunks.
- Use tongs to turn the skewers carefully to grill all sides.
- If you used a sweetener in your marinade, watch them closely as the sugar can cause them to char more quickly.
- Serve:
- Once the mango skewers are beautifully caramelized and tender, remove them from the grill.
- Let them cool for a minute or two as they will be very hot.
- Serve warm as is, or with your favorite accompaniments (see “How to Serve” section for ideas).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 80-120