Move over Mankurad, Goa’s irresistible Alphonso mango is here
Evelyn Siqueira
BOTANICALLY SPEAKING
The mango, botanically known as Mangifera Indica, is one of Goa’s most popular fruits, with the Mankurad variety being highly sought-after.
Goa | mangoes | Magnifera Indica
WHAT’S IN A NAME
Another delicious variety is Alfonso, named after Afonso de Albuquerque, viceroy of Portuguese India from 1509 to 1515. He brought fruit grafts from Malaysia to Goa in the 16th century.
Goa | Afonso de Albuquerque | Portuguese
JESUIT CONNECTION
In order to produce varieties like Alphonso, Jesuit missionaries introduced the technique of grafting on mango trees in Goa.
Goa | mangoes | plant | grafting
FROM THE EXPERT
In 1563, famed Portuguese physician, herbalist and naturalist, Garcia da Orta, wrote about Alphonso mangoes grown in Portuguese Bombay.
Portuguese herbalist | naturalist | Garcia da Orta
KONKAN SHAKTI
Alfonso mangoes are also grown in a few other parts of the Konkan region of Western India, where they are called hapus.
Konkan | Western India
WAIT FOR IT
The Alphonso mango is a seasonal fruit, harvested from mid-April till end June.
Alphonso mango | Goa | ripe | tree
WHAT IT’S LIKE
The Alphonso mango has a rich, creamy texture with a non-fibrous, juicy pulp, making it perfect for an array of culinary delights, from ice cream to tangy chutneys to juices and desserts.
Alphonso mango | Goa | icecream
EXPORT SCENE
Prized in domestic and international markets, Alphonso mangoes are exported to several countries, including Japan and Europe.