What's the Best Substitute for Mango?
Whether you're out of Mango or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Sweet, tropical fruit with orange flesh and a unique flavor, commonly used in desserts, smoothies, and savory dishes In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for mango are peaches, papaya, or apricots, depending on the recipe.
Best Substitutes for Mango
Peaches
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- salads
- smoothies
- snacks
Description
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to mango. Remove pit before using.
Choose ripe, soft peaches for best texture. Slightly less sweet than mango.
Papaya
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- salads
- smoothies
- snacks
Description
Tropical fruit with similar sweetness and soft texture to mango.
Remove seeds and skin before using. Papaya has a more tropical flavor than mango.
Apricots
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- baking
- salads
- preserves
Description
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to mango.
Remove pit before using. Apricots are slightly more tart than mango.
Canned Mango
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- smoothies
- baking
- sauces
Description
Convenient substitute when fresh mango isn't available. Choose mango in light syrup or water.
Drain well before using. May be softer than fresh mango, so adjust cooking time.
Pineapple
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- salads
- smoothies
- snacks
Description
Tropical fruit with similar sweetness and texture to mango.
Remove core before using. Pineapple is more acidic than mango.
Nectarines
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- salads
- smoothies
- snacks
Description
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to mango.
Remove pit before using. Nectarines are slightly more acidic than mango.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Mango, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Choose mangoes that yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a sweet aroma
Store ripe mangoes in the refrigerator to slow further ripening
Freeze mango chunks for smoothies or as a frozen snack
Mango pairs well with lime, ginger, coconut, and chili peppers
For salads, cut mango into uniform pieces for best presentation
Mango is best served chilled for maximum refreshment
Remove the pit before using mango in recipes
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications