Refreshing Homemade Mango Nectar – Tropical Sunshine in a Glass

Escape to tropical paradise with a frosty glass of fresh, homemade mango nectar. This luscious mango juice concentrate captures the vibrant essence of ripe, juicy mangoes at their sun-kissed peak.

Making your own mango nectar allows you to skip the added sugars and preservatives often found in store-bought bottles. You control the ingredients, highlighting the pure flavor and natural sweetness of mangoes, nature’s candy.

Read on to learn the ins and outs of creating this delicious beverage at home. We’ll cover choosing perfect mangoes, easy preparation methods, ways to use mango nectar, storage tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.

With just a few ripe mangoes, you can experience island-style refreshment with each sip. Let’s get blending!

Why Make Your Own Mango Nectar?

Buying pre-made mango juice drinks from the store certainly seems convenient. But most contain added sugar or syrups as well as preservatives and flavorings.

By making mango nectar at home, you get:

• Full fresh mango flavor at its peak – no processed taste
• Control over sugar content – use no sugar if mangoes are ripe enough
• No preservatives or additives – just pure, real ingredients
• Customizable thickness – strain more or less pulp to your taste
• Versatility – use immediately or refrigerate or freeze for later
• Cost savings – much less expensive than brand name beverages
• Fun project – learn a new kitchen skill and get creative

Homemade also allows you to tailor the nectar to your taste and dietary needs. Those with diabetes or seeking reduced sugar can enjoy this beverage without added sweeteners.

Making your own mango nectar ensures you get the real, fresh flavor of ripe mangoes at their juicy best. Now let’s go over the easy process so you can start blending.

Refreshing Homemade Mango Nectar

Recipe by radiantnourishCourse: BeverageCuisine: TropicalDifficulty: Easy

Servings

3

cups nectar

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking timeminutes

Calories

140

kcal

Best SeasonSummer

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

One of the joys of homemade mango nectar is the ease of preparation. All you need is ripe mangoes, a blender, fine mesh strainer, and a few simple ingredients.
Here is the process:

Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped ripe mango

• 2 Tbsp fresh lime or lemon juice

• 2-4 Tbsp sugar or honey (optional to taste)

• Pinch of salt

Instructions

• Wash and peel the mangoes. Slice the flesh off the pit into chunks.
• Add mango chunks and any juice to a powerful blender.
• Add lime or lemon juice. The acidity balances the sweetness and adds complexity.
• Blend on high until completely smooth, about 2 minutes. Add a splash of water if needed.
• Taste the mango puree. If desired, add 2-4 Tbsp sugar or honey to taste and blend again briefly.
• Place a fine mesh strainer over a bowl. Pour the mango puree into the strainer.
• Use a spoon or spatula to press and stir the pulp, straining the liquid through. Extract as much nectar as possible.
• Discard the strained mango pulp or save it for another use.
• Add a pinch of salt to the nectar and stir to incorporate.
• Transfer the finished mango nectar to an airtight container and refrigerate until chilled.

Notes

• Choose ripe, sweet mangoes for best flavor.
  Add sweetener to taste if mangoes are tart. Start with 2 Tbsp.
  For thicker nectar, use less strained juice. For thinner, strain more.
  Shake or stir before using if separation occurs.

Tips for Making Perfect Mango Nectar

While mango nectar comes together in minutes, there are some techniques worth noting:

Choose ripe, sweet mangoes – This is critical for the best flavor! Red, orange, or yellow skin with a fruity aroma signals ripeness. Softness when gently squeezed indicates ideal texture.

Consider the variety – Ripe Ataulfos or Kent mangoes have incredible sweetness perfect for nectar. Tommy Atkins and Haden are also excellent choices.

Cut generously around the pit – Don’t leave too much flesh stuck to the pit, you want all that mango goodness in your drink!

Use a powerful blender – Blend long enough to break down the fibers completely into a smooth liquid. This ensures straining can fully separate out the pulp.

Add a splash of lemon or lime juice – The acid brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness. Allow it to blend fully.

Only add minimal sugar if needed – Start with just 2 Tbsp. and add more to taste if the mangoes are tart. Ripe ones often don’t need any.

Press the pulp to extract all the nectar – Don’t waste any of the fruity mango juice at this vital step!

For thicker nectar, strain less – Allowing some pulp to pass through creates a nectar with more body.

Stir before drinking – Separation is normal, simply stir or shake to reincorporate.

Refrigerate up to 1 week – For longer storage, freeze for several months.

That covers the key steps and techniques. Next let’s check out some fun ways to use fresh mango nectar.

Creative Ways to Use Homemade Mango Nectar

Now that you’ve created this luscious homemade nectar, you’ll want fun ways to enjoy it. Here are some ideas:

• Add a splash to water – Flavor up a glass of water with a bit of mango sweetness. Kids love this too!
• Blend into smoothies – Use in place of juice or milk for an extra creamy treat.
• Drizzle over yogurt – Let it soak in to flavor yogurt parfaits or fruit bowls.
• Mix into oatmeal – For a tropical breakfast twist.
• Swirl into cottage cheese – Boosts the flavor and creaminess.
• Use in popsicles – Blend with coconut milk or heavy cream for gourmet pops.
• Flavor whipped cream or frosting – For desserts and cupcakes with a kick.
• Mix into cocktails – Adds sweetness without overpowering like juice.
• Make into sorbet – For the easiest ever 3-ingredient sorbet!

As you can see, the possibilities are endless! Anytime you want a hit of refreshingly sweet mango flavor, this nectar adds tropical flair.

Storing Your Fresh Mango Nectar

One of the bonuses of preparing homemade mango nectar is the ability to store it for enjoying later. Here are some storage tips:

• Short-term – Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 1 week.
• Long-term – Freeze nectar in ice cube trays or jars up to 6 months.
• For freezing – Leave a 1/2 inch headspace for expansion and avoid glass to prevent cracking.
• Thaw frozen nectar – In the refrigerator overnight, or for quicker use let cubes or jars warm on the counter 30 minutes to an hour.
• Reblend if needed – Give frozen nectar a quick blend once thawed to reincorporate any separation.

Proper storage lets you whip up a big batch of mango nectar and enjoy it slowly over time. Make the most of mango season!

Troubleshooting Homemade Mango Nectar

Having some issues getting your mango nectar just right? Here are some common problems and solutions:

Mangoes not sweet enough – Make sure mangoes are ripe and add more sugar to taste during blending.

Nectar is too thick – Strain the pulp more thoroughly through a fine mesh sieve until it reaches desired consistency.

Nectar is too thin – Leave a bit more pulp when straining to give it more body.

Flavor seems off – Add a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt to balance and enhance the flavors.

Separation during storage – This is natural! Just give the nectar a good stir or shake before using.

Frozen nectar has ice crystals – Thaw slowly in the fridge rather than countertop to prevent large crystals from forming.

Mold develops during storage – Always use clean utensils and containers. Refrigerate within 2 hours of making and discard if mold appears.

I hope these tips help you troubleshoot any issues making smooth, luscious mango nectar every time! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mango Nectar

You’re probably curious about the details when it comes to crafting your own mango nectar at home. Here are answers to some common FAQs:

I hope these mango nectar FAQs have helped explain this delightful beverage. Please reach out if you have any other questions!

Blend Up Sweet Sunshine

Now you have all the knowledge needed to start crafting your own refreshing mango nectar at home.

With just ripe mangoes, a blender, and 10 minutes, you can have a pitcher of tropical sunshine ready to enjoy all week long. Plus freezing lets you save the essence of mango season for months to come.

From smoothies to cocktails, breakfasts to desserts, homemade mango nectar adds sweetness and sunshine.

For more recipes highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients, be sure to subscribe to my email newsletter.

Let me know how you enjoy using your homemade mango nectar! Tag me on Instagram @radiantnourishblog to show off your tasty creations.

Now get blending and transport your tastebuds to the tropics in one sip!