Dried Mango Slices
Chewy, sweet, and bursting with tropical flavor, these homemade dried mango slices are a healthy and delicious snack. Made with just two simple ingredients, they are perfect for on-the-go energy and incredibly easy to prepare in your oven or dehydrator.
For 4 servings
7 steps.
- 1
Prepare your oven and baking sheets
- a.Preheat the oven to its lowest temperature, typically between 170-175°F (75-80°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or, for better air circulation, place an oven-safe wire rack over each sheet.
- 2
Prepare the mangoes
- a.Wash and thoroughly dry the mangoes. Using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, remove the skin. Slice the mango flesh away from the large central pit. Cut the flesh into uniform slices, about 1/4-inch (6mm) thick. A mandoline slicer is excellent for achieving consistent thickness.
- 3
Treat the slices
- a.Place the mango slices into a medium bowl. Drizzle with the fresh lemon juice and gently toss with your hands to ensure every slice is lightly coated. This step is crucial for preventing the mangoes from turning brown during the drying process.
- 4
Arrange the slices for drying
- a.Lay the coated mango slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets or wire racks. Ensure that the slices do not touch or overlap, as this will prevent them from drying evenly.
- 5
Dry the mangoes
- a.Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. To allow moisture to escape, prop the oven door open slightly with the handle of a wooden spoon. Bake for 3 to 5 hours, flipping the slices over at the halfway point (around 1.5 to 2 hours).
- 6
Check for doneness and cool
- a.The mangoes are ready when they are dry to the touch, leathery, and pliable. They should not be sticky, wet, or brittle. Begin checking for doneness after 3 hours. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool completely on the wire racks. They will become chewier as they cool.
- 7
Store properly
- a.For best results, 'condition' the dried mangoes by placing the cooled slices loosely in a sealed glass jar for 4-5 days, shaking daily to redistribute moisture. After conditioning, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a month or in the refrigerator for longer storage.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose the Right Mangoes: Use mangoes that are ripe for maximum sweetness but still firm to the touch. Overly ripe or mushy mangoes are difficult to slice and handle.
- 2Uniform Slices are Key: Slicing the mangoes to a consistent 1/4-inch thickness ensures they all dry at the same rate. A mandoline is a great tool for this.
- 3Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Give the slices ample space on the baking sheet. Proper air circulation is essential for even drying.
- 4Low and Slow is the Secret: A low oven temperature is crucial. If your oven runs hot, check the mangoes earlier to prevent them from becoming crispy or burnt.
- 5Use a Wire Rack: Placing slices on a wire rack set over a baking sheet significantly improves air circulation around each slice, leading to faster and more even drying.
- 6Condition for Longevity: After cooling, place the dried slices in a sealed jar for a few days and shake daily. This process, called conditioning, evenly distributes any residual moisture and reduces the risk of mold for longer-term storage.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Before baking, lightly sprinkle the mango slices with a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a sweet and spicy kick.
TangyTangy
For a tangy twist, dust the slices with Tajín seasoning or a mix of lime zest and a tiny bit of sugar before placing them in the oven.
Warm SpicedWarm Spiced
Add a cozy flavor by sprinkling the mango slices with a small amount of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom before drying.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Mangoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and Vitamin A (from beta-carotene), which is essential for healthy vision and skin.
High in Dietary Fiber
Dried mango is a concentrated source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain regular bowel movements, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Natural Energy Boost
The natural sugars in mango provide a quick and sustained energy boost, making it a fantastic and healthy snack for pre-workout fuel or combating a midday slump.
Packed with Antioxidants
Mangoes contain polyphenols, which are plant compounds that act as antioxidants to protect your body against cellular damage from free radicals.
Frequently asked questions
A half-cup serving (about 80 grams) of homemade dried mango slices contains approximately 250-270 calories. The exact number can vary based on the sweetness and size of the mangoes used.