Alphonso Mango Salsa Recipe – Spicy Indian Tomato & Jalapeno Delight

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Alphonso Mango Salsa Recipe – Spicy Indian Tomato & Jalapeno Delight

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for fresh, vibrant flavors, especially when mango season hits. This Alphonso Mango Salsa is exactly that – a burst of sweet, spicy, and tangy goodness that’s seriously addictive. I first made this for a summer barbecue, and it disappeared within minutes! It’s become a staple in my kitchen ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average salsa. We’re taking the incredible sweetness of Alphonso mangoes and giving them a spicy kick with Indian-inspired flavors. It’s unbelievably easy to make, requires no cooking, and is perfect for everything from tortilla chips to grilled fish. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful salsa:

• 1 cup Alphonso Mangoes, finely chopped (about 1 large mango)
• 1 Tomato, finely chopped
• 1 Onion, finely chopped
• 1 Bell Pepper, finely chopped
• 6 Pickled Jalapenos, finely chopped
• 1 Red Jalapeno Pepper, finely chopped
• 1 Lime Juice (from about 1 lime)
• 0.25 cup Cilantro, chopped
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about these ingredients – a few little tips can make all the difference!

Alphonso Mangoes: The King of Mangoes & Why They Matter

Alphonso mangoes are truly special. Their creamy texture and intense sweetness are unmatched. If you can get your hands on them, please do! They really elevate this salsa. (About 200-250g of mangoes is perfect). But if they’re not available, see the FAQs for substitutions.

Pickled Jalapenos: A Unique Tang & Spice Element

Using pickled jalapenos instead of fresh ones adds a lovely tang and a slightly different kind of heat. The brine they come in also contributes to the overall flavor profile. Don’t drain them too much – a little of that juice is good!

Red Jalapeno Pepper: Heat Level & Substitutions

The red jalapeno adds a fresh, vibrant heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. Serrano peppers are a good substitute if you want even more heat.

Fresh Cilantro: Regional Variations & Flavor Profile

Cilantro (dhania) is a cornerstone of Indian cuisine. Some people love it, some don’t! If you’re not a fan, you can try using parsley, but it won’t have the same bright, citrusy flavor.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking (well, chopping!). It’s super simple, I promise.

1. First, grab a mixing bowl. Add your finely chopped Alphonso mangoes, tomato, onion, and bell pepper.
2. Next, toss in those chopped pickled jalapenos and the red jalapeno pepper.
3. Now, squeeze in the fresh lime juice. This brightens everything up beautifully.
4. Add the chopped cilantro and a pinch of salt.
5. Give everything a good mix with a clean spoon. Make sure all those flavors are getting acquainted!
6. Finally, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and become even more delicious.

Expert Tips

• Chopping Consistency: Aim for roughly the same size pieces for all your veggies. This ensures a consistent texture in every bite.
• Taste as You Go: Don’t be afraid to adjust the salt and lime juice to your liking.
• Chill Time is Key: Seriously, don’t skip the refrigeration step. It makes a huge difference!

Variations

This salsa is a great base for experimentation!

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is naturally vegan! No changes needed.

Spice Level Adjustment: Mild to Fiery

Want it milder? Remove the seeds from the jalapenos or use fewer of them. Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a hotter chili pepper. My friend, Priya, loves to add a tiny bit of ghost pepper for a real kick!

Festival Adaptation: Pairing with Indian Festive Meals

During festivals like Diwali, I love serving this with samosas or pakoras. It’s a refreshing contrast to the richer, fried snacks.

Gluten-Free Confirmation

Yes! This Alphonso Mango Salsa is completely gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

Okay, now for the fun part – eating!

Tortilla Chips & Beyond: Creative Serving Ideas

This salsa is amazing with tortilla chips, of course. But don’t stop there! Try it with plantain chips, pita bread, or even veggie sticks.

Pairing with Grilled Meats & Seafood

It’s a fantastic accompaniment to grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. The sweetness of the mango complements the smoky flavors beautifully.

As a Topping for Tacos & Nachos

Elevate your taco or nacho night with a generous spoonful of this salsa. It adds a burst of freshness and spice.

Storage Instructions

How Long Does Mango Salsa Last?

Mango salsa is best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Best Practices for Maintaining Freshness

The salsa will get a little watery as it sits, so it’s best to make it close to when you plan to serve it. If you do have leftovers, drain off any excess liquid before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What is the best way to dice a mango for salsa?

There are a few ways! You can score the mango flesh in a grid pattern and then scoop it out with a spoon. Or, you can peel the mango and carefully cut the flesh away from the pit.

Can I use other types of mangoes if Alphonso mangoes aren’t available?

Absolutely! Kent, Ataulfo (honey mango), or Tommy Atkins mangoes are good substitutes. They won’t have quite the same flavor, but they’ll still be delicious.

How can I adjust the heat level of this salsa?

Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos for a milder salsa. Add more jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier salsa.

What is the role of pickled jalapenos in this recipe?

Pickled jalapenos add a unique tang and a slightly different kind of heat compared to fresh jalapenos. They also contribute to the overall flavor complexity.

Can this salsa be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead of time. However, it’s best to let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy! I really hope you love this Alphonso Mango Salsa as much as I do. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!