Vincentian Mango Salsa

Description and History

Mango salsa is a refreshing and vibrant dish with Caribbean roots. While it's enjoyed in many tropical and subtropical regions, the Vincentian variant is particularly beloved for its unique blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. St. Vincent and the Grenadines, known for its fertile volcanic soil, produces some of the most aromatic [mangoes](./mango) in the Caribbean. Integrating local ingredients, such as [lime](./lime) and [scotch bonnet peppers](./scotch%20bonnet%20peppers), Vincentian Mango Salsa reflects the island's culinary heritage and diverse culture.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, deseeded and minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Mangoes

Begin by peeling and dicing the mangoes. To select ripe mangoes, ensure they are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma. Cut the flesh away from the pit, then dice it into small cubes for easy mixing and to produce a more delightful blend of flavors.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

Finely chop the red onion and red bell pepper. The onions should be finely minced to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the salsa, providing a mild pungency without overpowering the other flavors. Deseed and mince the scotch bonnet pepper carefully, as it's quite spicy. Use gloves if necessary to avoid skin irritation.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red onion, red bell pepper, minced scotch bonnet pepper, and cilantro.

Step 4: Season the Salsa

Season the mixture with the juice of one lime, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top to add richness and help meld the flavors together.

Step 5: Mix Well

Gently mix all the ingredients together, ensuring that the dressing is evenly distributed. Be careful not to mash the mangoes as you mix; they should remain in firm, juicy pieces.

Step 6: Resting Period

For optimal taste, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow the salsa to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This resting period allows the flavors to meld, balancing the sweetness of the mangoes with the heat of the scotch bonnet pepper and the brightness of the lime.

How to Enjoy Vincentian Mango Salsa

Vincentian Mango Salsa is versatile and can be served in numerous ways. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, particularly fish or chicken, complementing their smoky flavors with its vibrant, fresh taste. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside grilled vegetables or as a topping for black bean tacos. For a quick appetizer, serve it with tortilla chips as a light, refreshing snack. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, be sure to savor the combination of textures and the balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes that make this dish a remarkable culinary creation.