'Tis the season for golden goodness

From savouries, desserts to cocktails, the culinary world is celebrating mangoes in fun & innovative ways this summer

- VAISHALI DAR

ANGO holds a special place in the culinary world. It is not only considered a quintessential summer ingredient but is also known for its versatility. Stir it into a glass of liquor, and you have a cool cocktail; toss it into a salad, and you will get a refreshing side dish. As the mango season peaks, the king of fruits is once again ruling the roost, and hotels, restaurants and retail brands are celebrating it by giving their own twist to curated items and special menus to suit every palate.

Mumbai's Nara Thai is bringing the essence of Thailand's tropical bounty in a limited-edition culinary tribute to mangoes. On offer are traditional Thai flavours in mango chilli basil cold soups; mango avocado ceviche, served on crispy rice sheets; grilled seabass with ripened mango and chilli cucumber; mango red curry in vegetarian, chicken, and prawn options, among others.

Similarly, Ramakrushna Chaskar, pastry chef of Conrad Pune, is curating special dishes like mango jasmine petite cake, blending the traditional with the contemporary. "These dishes are more than just food—they're cultural markers of the time of year," he adds.

As per Shivneet Pohoja, executive chef, ITC Maurya, New Delhi, the unexpected twist of adding mango to a dish elevates it into something memorable. "Mango kulfi candy, for instance, is simple, easy to enjoy—that's what makes it special," he explains.

"Consumers are craving more than just sweetness—they're looking for emotional connection and relief from the heat," says Sanket S, founder of Scandalous Foods, a company in the Indian sweets industry catering to the restaurant and catering sectors. "The popularity of mango-infused treats shows how seasonality can inspire innovation without staying far from cultural roots," he adds.