Li Hing Mui Mango
Fresh, ripe mango slices tossed with tangy, salty-sweet li hing mui powder. This beloved Hawaiian snack takes just minutes to make and delivers an addictive punch of tropical flavor. The plum powder clings to the juicy mango, creating a mouthwatering contrast that's perfect for hot afternoons.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~3 min
Peel and slice the mangoes.
1.Peel each mango with a vegetable peeler or sharp knife.2.Slice the flesh away from the pit in two large cheeks.3.Cut the cheeks into thick wedges or strips, about ½ inch wide.4.Transfer all mango pieces to a mixing bowl. - mix · ~1 min
Season with lime juice and salt.
1.Drizzle the fresh lime juice over the mango slices.2.Sprinkle the pinch of salt evenly across the fruit.3.Toss gently with a spoon or your hands until the mango is evenly coated.TIPThe lime juice helps the powder stick and brightens the mango's sweetness. - mix · ~1 min
Toss with li hing mui powder.
1.Sprinkle 1½ tablespoons of li hing mui powder over the mango.2.Toss well until all pieces are lightly dusted with the pink powder.3.Taste and add the remaining ½ tablespoon if you prefer a stronger tangy-salty kick.TIPStart with less powder and build up — li hing mui is intensely salty-sour. - serve
Serve immediately or chill briefly.
Divide the seasoned mango into serving bowls. Enjoy right away at room temperature, or refrigerate for 10 minutes if you prefer it cold. The powder will draw out the mango's juices and create a delicious syrup.
TIPBest eaten within an hour — the salt will continue to pull moisture and the mango softens over time.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use ripe but firm mangoes so they hold their shape when tossed.
- 2Lime juice helps the powder adhere and balances the sweetness.
- 3Add li hing mui powder gradually—it's intensely salty-sour.
- 4Toss gently to avoid bruising the mango slices.
- 5Serve within an hour; the salt will draw out moisture and soften the fruit.
- 6Chill briefly for a refreshing cold snack, but don't refrigerate too long.
- 7Adjust the amount of powder to your taste—start with 1½ tablespoons.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy kick
Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper along with the li hing mui for a sweet-heat twist.
with chamoyWith chamoy
Drizzle chamoy sauce over the mango before dusting with li hing mui for an extra layer of tangy-sweet richness.
substitute fruitSubstitute fruit
Replace mango with fresh pineapple, cucumber, or jicama wedges for a different crunchy, tangy snack.
extra tartExtra tart
Increase the lime juice to 2 tablespoons and add a light sprinkle of sugar to balance the sourness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Mangoes provide a good source of vitamin C, supporting immune health and collagen production.
Natural Hydration
The juicy mango flesh contributes to fluid intake, making this a hydrating snack for warm climates.
Low in Fat
This snack contains negligible fat, making it a light and guilt-free treat.
Digestive Aid from Lime
Fresh lime juice adds citric acid, which can support digestion and enhance flavor without added sugar.
Frequently asked questions
Li hing mui powder is a tangy, salty, sweet seasoning made from ground salted dried plums; find it at Asian grocery stores, Hawaiian specialty shops, or online.
