Easy Steps to Create Homemade Dried Mango Using Oven and Dehydrator

Dried mango is not just a tasty treat; it's a nutritious snack that can elevate your meals or satisfy your cravings any time of the year. Whether you toss it into your trail mix, use it in baking, or enjoy it straight from the jar, making your own dried mango at home is simpler than you might think! In this blog post, we’ll go through two methods for drying mango: using an oven and a dehydrator. Let’s turn those juicy mangoes into a delightful snack!

Why Dried Mango?

Dried mango offers a burst of tropical flavor while being rich in nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamin A, providing around 25% of the daily recommended intake in just a handful. Additionally, it is high in vitamin C and dietary fiber, which can aid digestion and boost your immune system. Making dried mango at home lets you control the sweetness and free it from the preservatives often found in store-bought varieties.

So, let’s get started on creating your very own delicious dried mango!

Choosing the Right Mango

Selecting the right mangoes is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Look for ripe, sweet mangoes that yield slightly to pressure. The varieties that excel in drying include:

• Haden: Known for its vibrant flavor and smooth texture.

• Tommy Atkins: Offers a good balance of sweetness and tenderness.

• Kent: Renowned for its sweet, smooth taste and minimal fiber.

  
  

When picking mangoes, look for vibrant colors and a sweet aroma. Avoid any with blemishes or dark spots, as these imperfections can spoil your final product.

Ripe mangoes ready for drying

Preparing the Mango

After selecting ripe mangoes, it’s time to prepare them for drying. Follow these steps:

1. Wash the Mangoes: Rinse your mangoes under cool water to remove any dirt or residues from the surface.

2. Peel the Mangoes: Carefully peel the mangoes using a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler, avoiding any tough sections.

3. Slice the Mangoes: Cut the mangoes into thin slices, ideally 1/4 inch thick. Thinner slices dry more quickly, while thicker slices may take longer.

   
   

4. Optional: Soak in Lemon Juice: For added flavor and color retention, soak the slices in a mix of lemon juice and water for about 10 minutes. This optional step brightens the taste and reduces browning.

   
   

Drying Mango in the Oven

If you don’t own a dehydrator, you can easily dry mango in your oven. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to its lowest temperature, usually around 140°F (60°C).

2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

3. Arrange the Mango Slices: Place the mango slices in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring the pieces do not overlap.

4. Dry the Mango: Place the baking sheet in the oven. Leave the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Drying typically takes 6 to 8 hours. Check the fruit every hour and flip the slices halfway through to promote even drying.

   
   

5. Check for Doneness: The mango is done when it feels leathery and no longer sticky.

   
   

Dried mango slices on a baking sheet

Drying Mango in a Dehydrator

If you have a dehydrator, it is a highly effective way to make dried mango. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Set Up the Dehydrator: Arrange the trays in your dehydrator and set the temperature to 135°F (57°C).

2. Arrange the Mango Slices: Lay the mango slices on the dehydrator trays in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching for even air circulation.

3. Dehydrate the Mango: Let the mango dehydrate for about 8 to 12 hours. The drying time will vary depending on the thickness of your slices and the humidity level in your kitchen.

   
   

4. Check for Doneness: Similar to the oven method, the dried mango should feel leathery and not sticky when it is finished.

   
   

Storing Your Dried Mango

To ensure your dried mango retains its flavor and texture, follow these storage tips:

• Cool Completely: Before storing, allow the dried mango to cool fully to prevent moisture buildup in the container.

• Use Airtight Containers: Store the mango in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to keep moisture out and prolong freshness.

• Keep in a Cool, Dark Place: A pantry or cupboard serves as an ideal storage spot. When stored properly, dried mango can last for 6 to 12 months.

  
  

Enjoying Your Dried Mango

Now that you’ve crafted your own dried mango, the options for enjoying it are limitless! Here are a few delicious ideas:

• Snack on It: Enjoy it straight from the bag as a healthy snack.

• Add to Trail Mix: Combine your dried mango with nuts, seeds, and other dried fruits for a nutritious trail mix.

• Use in Baking: Chopped pieces can be added to muffins or granola bars for a sweet twist.

• Rehydrate for Recipes: If you want to use dried mango in salads or savory dishes, soak it in warm water or juice until it softens.

Bowl filled with dried mango slices

Your Drying Adventure Awaits

Creating your own dried mango at home is not only easy but a super rewarding experience! It’s your path to a delicious snack that's full of tropical flavor.

At Snack.co, we believe in the incredible, versatile power of this amazing super-fruit. That’s why we are so thrilled to announce our upcoming collection, made from organic, sun-ripened mangoes from the heart of tropical Vietnam! Imagine a full lineup of top-quality natural products for your hair, your skin, and for the most amazing face and body masks.

Your next favorite treat is almost here! Follow us and stay tuned at Snack.co to be the first to experience these incredible, all-natural goodies.