Locating the shoulders of the mango is crucial for a successful peel. The two raised areas on either side of the pit serve as natural guides for scoring and cutting away the skin. To start, gently pinch the skin between your thumb and index finger, feeling for the slight indentation where the shoulders meet the rest of the fruit. Next, using a sharp paring knife or a mango peeler, carefully score along both sides of the shoulders, making shallow cuts about “” (1/4 inch) deep. The skin should start to separate from the flesh at this point, allowing you to peel back the skin in one continuous piece. As you work your way around the mango, rotate it gently to maintain even pressure and prevent the skin from tearing.
Some tips to keep in mind: use a ripe but firm mango for best results, and avoid applying too much pressure, which can cause the skin to tear or the fruit to become mushy. By following these simple steps and working with the natural contours of the mango, you should be able to peel your mango easily and efficiently, without wasting any fruit.
With practice, peeling a mango becomes second nature, and you can enjoy the sweet and creamy flesh without any hassle or frustration.
The key to mastering the art of mango peeling is to relax and work with the fruit, rather than forcing it into submission. By doing so, you’ll be rewarded with perfectly peeled mangos that are ready to devour.
The versatility of mangoes extends far beyond their deliciousness, too - they're also a rich source of essential vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.