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Many know and stick to the hash-cut method of cutting mango, but I recently discovered a better way thanks to Alton Brown. In his "How to Slice a Mango" video, Brown makes use of an unusual technique that actually feels safer and yields more fruit. I put it to the test and can vouch that this hack really works! Take a look at these step-by-step images to see how it's done.
1. Peel the mango — but not all of it. In the center of each wider side, leave a small round circle of skin. You'll need it for gripping.
Here's what the mango looks like after it's been peeled.
2. Cut the stem side off to create a flat surface for cutting.
3. Stand the mango up on its flat end, then cut each wide side of the mango, avoiding the pit in the center. In Brown's video, he grips the mango skin on both sides for secure cutting (thumb on one end, fingers on the other). Since I have small hands and was using a large chef's knife, I couldn't quite grip each side so opted for a "bear claw" grip, placing my thumb on one side of the mango skin and fingers tucked on the top of the mango. As promised, the mango held its place and didn't slide around the cutting board. As for the pit, Brown recommends gnawing on the seed rather than trying to cut pieces off of it... since he didn't video the process, we didn't photograph it either.
4. Cut each mango cheek into slices. I opted for one-inch slices.
5. Cut each mango cheek into cubes. Turn the slices 90 degrees and cut perpendicular to the slices to form one-inch cubes.
Ta-da! Your mango is successfully cubed.
6. Transfer the mango to a bowl for immediate snacking or seal in an air-tight container and store in the refrigerator.
Try the diced mango in a host of recipes, like this tropical fruit salad from Chrissy Teigen's Cravings 2 cookbook.
Become an even better food hacker by studying up Brit + Co’s Pinterest page.
Become an even better food hacker by studying up Brit + Co’s Pinterest page.
(Photos via Brittany Griffin / Brit + Co)
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