Mango has always been one of Nahid Anee’s favourite summer fruits, especially while growing up in Bangladesh where mango season is something everyone looks forward to. In Bengali, mango is called “aam” and it’s one of their most loved tropical fruits. Bangladesh has more than two hundred varieties of mangoes, each with its own unique flavour. Nahid’s favourite is the sweet and rich Fazli mango, which is naturally juicy, flavourful, and perfect for summer recipes.
Nahid is sharing two recipes with Bayview readers today: a mango salad, that contains an ingredient one may not think of using with this sweet fruit, and a delicious mango smoothie – both refreshing treats for summertime.
Nahid says the recipes bring back some of her happiest childhood memories. “During the rainy season, especially when the Boishakhi Jhor – strong monsoon storms – would arrive, my friends and I would run outside in the wind and rain to collect mangoes that had fallen from the trees. It was always exciting to watch the strong winds shake the branches and then rush to gather the fresh mangoes. Those moments were filled with laughter, friendship, and the simple joy of being a child during summer in Bangladesh.”
For Nahid, Kasundi mango and mango lassi are more than just a delicious salad and a refreshing summer drink, they are something connected to her culture, childhood and the feeling of home. “Every time I make these recipes, it reminds me of family gatherings, warm summer afternoons, and the beautiful memories of growing up in Bangladesh.”
Kasundi Mango:
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe but firm mango (cubed or sliced)
- 1–2 Tbsp Kasundi
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, balances sharpness)
- 1–2 Tbsp mustard oil or olive oil (mustard oil is more authentic)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
To make the dressing, mix kasundi, oil, salt, pepper, and optional honey in a bowl. Stir well. Combine the mango in a mixing bowl with the dressing and mix gently so the mango doesn’t break. Serve. Note: A great place to get your Kasundi, Bengali mustard sauce, is at Fatiha Grocery at 197 Algoma Street South.
Mango Lassi:
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes (preferably Fazli mango if available)
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
- 1–2 teaspoons honey or white sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
- A few ice cubes (optional)
Directions:
Peel and cut the ripe mangoes into small pieces. Add the mango pieces, yogurt, and ice cream into a blender. If you prefer a sweeter taste, add a little honey or white sugar. Blend everything until smooth and creamy. You can also add a few ice cubes for a colder, more refreshing drink. Pour into a glass and serve chilled.
