Cutting a mango can be a bit tricky due to its unique shape and a large pit in the center. Here's a step-by-step guide on the best way to cut a mango:
Choose a ripe mango: Look for a mango that is slightly soft to the touch and gives a sweet aroma near the stem. Avoid overly soft or bruised mangoes.
Prepare your tools: You'll need a sharp knife and a cutting board.
Stand the mango upright: Hold the mango with one hand and position it vertically on the cutting board. The narrow, oval-shaped side should be facing you, while the stem end points upward.
Slice off one side: With the knife, make a vertical cut slightly off-center, starting from the top and moving downward. The knife should glide alongside the flat side of the pit. Repeat this process on the other side to remove both fleshy cheeks of the mango.
Score the flesh: Be careful with this step as many people use too sharp of a knife and cut through the mango to their hand! Take one mango cheek and carefully score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern, making shallow cuts without piercing the skin. Repeat this step on the other mango cheek.
Invert and separate the cubes: Hold each scored mango cheek gently by the skin, and use your fingers or a spoon to invert the skin and push out the mango cubes. Alternatively, you can use a knife to carefully separate the cubes from the skin.
Trim remaining flesh from the pit: With the remaining mango flesh clinging to the pit, carefully slice it off using a knife. Be cautious while doing this to avoid cutting yourself.