Dried mango is one of those pantry staples that combines convenience with irresistible flavour. Its natural sweetness, chewy texture, and tangy edge make it a versatile ingredient for everything from quick snacks to indulgent desserts. In the UK, dried mango is increasingly popular in supermarkets and health food shops, making it easy to explore new and exciting recipes.
If you’ve ever wondered how to put dried mango to good use, here are seven delicious recipes you can try at home. Each one celebrates the tropical taste of mango while being practical and simple to prepare.
1. Dried Mango Energy Balls
Perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up, dried mango energy balls are packed with nutrients and flavour.
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried mango, chopped
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1 cup oats
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½ cup cashews or almonds
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2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
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1 tbsp chia seeds
Method:
Blend the dried mango until finely chopped. Add the oats, nuts, and chia seeds, then pulse again. Mix in honey and roll into small balls. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tip: Store in the fridge for up to a week for a healthy, grab-and-go snack.
2. Tropical Trail Mix
Trail mix is a timeless favourite, and dried mango adds a fruity twist that complements the crunch of nuts and seeds.
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried mango strips, chopped
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½ cup roasted almonds
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½ cup cashews
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½ cup pumpkin seeds
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¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Method:
Mix everything in a bowl and portion into small containers or resealable bags for easy snacking.
Serving Idea: Pack this mix for work, school, or even a weekend hike in the British countryside.
3. Mango-Infused Overnight Oats
Start your day with creamy oats bursting with tropical flavour.
Ingredients:
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½ cup rolled oats
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1 cup milk or plant-based alternative
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¼ cup chopped dried mango
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1 tbsp chia seeds
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A drizzle of honey
Method:
Combine all ingredients in a jar, mix well, and refrigerate overnight. By morning, the dried mango softens and infuses the oats with sweetness.
Variation: Add a spoonful of Greek yoghurt for extra creaminess.
4. Dried Mango Granola
Homemade granola is healthier and more customisable than store-bought. Dried mango adds a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with crunchy clusters.
Ingredients:
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3 cups rolled oats
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½ cup chopped dried mango
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½ cup coconut flakes
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¼ cup sunflower seeds
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⅓ cup honey
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2 tbsp coconut oil
Method:
Mix oats, seeds, and coconut flakes in a bowl. Heat honey and coconut oil until melted, then stir into the oats. Spread on a baking tray and bake at 160°C for 20 minutes, stirring halfway. Once cooled, mix in dried mango.
Serving Suggestion: Enjoy with milk, yoghurt, or simply as a snack.
5. Spiced Dried Mango Chutney
A sweet and tangy chutney with a hint of spice makes the perfect accompaniment to curries, grilled meats, or even a simple cheese board.
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried mango, chopped
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½ cup apple cider vinegar
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½ cup sugar
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1 small onion, finely diced
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½ tsp ground ginger
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½ tsp chilli flakes
Method:
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and simmer for 20–25 minutes until thick and jam-like. Store in a sterilised jar and keep in the fridge.
Pairing Idea: Try this chutney with mature cheddar or alongside a chicken curry.
6. Mango Muffins with Coconut
These tropical muffins are moist, fluffy, and bursting with chewy mango pieces. Perfect for afternoon tea or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
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1 ½ cups plain flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ cup sugar
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½ cup dried mango, chopped
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½ cup shredded coconut
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2 eggs
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½ cup milk
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⅓ cup vegetable oil
Method:
Preheat oven to 180°C. In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and oil. In another bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, mango, and coconut. Mix the wet and dry ingredients together, pour into muffin tins, and bake for 18–20 minutes.
Tip: Serve warm with a cup of English tea for a delightful pairing.
7. Mango and Dark Chocolate Bark
A quick dessert that looks elegant but takes only minutes to prepare.
Ingredients:
200g dark chocolate
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½ cup dried mango, chopped
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¼ cup pistachios or almonds
Method:
Melt the chocolate and spread it thinly on a parchment-lined tray. Sprinkle with dried mango and nuts, pressing lightly. Refrigerate until set, then break into shards.
Serving Idea: Package in small gift bags for a homemade present.
Final Thoughts
Dried mango is more than just a snack it’s an ingredient that can elevate breakfasts, desserts, and even savoury dishes. These seven recipes showcase just how versatile it can be, offering both convenience and a taste of the tropics in your everyday meals.
Whether you’re stirring it into oats, baking it into muffins, or turning it into chutney, dried mango brings a natural sweetness and vibrant flavour that brightens any dish. Next time you’re shopping in the UK, grab a bag of dried mango and give one of these recipes a try—you might just discover a new favourite.