Manga Vatiyathu/ Mango Mappas – Raw Mango Curry (Kerala Style)

Manga Vatiyathu, also called Mango Mappas, is a beloved Kerala curry that celebrates the tangy flavour of raw mangoes in a mildly spiced, coconut-rich gravy. This dish beautifully balances sourness, spice, and creaminess, making it a perfect accompaniment to steamed rice or banana stem curry combos during the mango season.

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🌿 Why Mango Mappas Is Special

• Highlights the tartness of raw mango in a flavorful curry
• Uses both thick and thin coconut milk for creamy texture
• Aromatic and mildly spicy with green chillies and spices
• Classic seasonal favourite in Kerala cuisine
• Best served with plain rice for a refreshing contrast

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🍛Ingredients

• 1 raw mango, peeled and cut into strips
• 1 cup thin coconut milk
• 1 cup thick coconut milk
• 3 green chillies, cut into pieces
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (small jeera)
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon ginger, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic, finely chopped
• 5–10 small onions, finely chopped
• 4 dried red chillies, broken
• 10–12 curry leaves
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• Salt, to taste

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👩‍🍳 Preparation Method

1. Cook the Mango

1. In a saucepan, add raw mango strips, thin coconut milk, turmeric, chopped ginger, garlic, green chillies, and salt.
2. Cover and bring to a gentle boil. Cook until the mango pieces begin to soften.

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2. Grind the Spices

1. In a blender, combine cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chilli powder.
2. Grind to a smooth paste with a little water.

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3. Add Spice Paste

1. Once the mangoes are cooked, add the spice paste and stir well.
2. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavours to blend.

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4. Add Thick Coconut Milk

1. Pour in the thick coconut milk and stir continuously to prevent separation.
2. Cook for another 5 minutes until the curry is rich and aromatic.

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5. Temper & Finish

1. Heat coconut oil in a small pan over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add chopped onions, dried red chillies, and curry leaves. Fry until the onions are golden brown and crisp.
4. Pour this tempering over the mango curry and mix gently.

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🍽️ How to Serve

Serve Mango Mappas hot with:

• Steamed rice
• Rasam and papad
• Stir-fried greens
• Traditional Kerala meals

The tangy mango curry pairs exceptionally well with plain rice and a drizzle of coconut oil for a refreshing meal.

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📝 Tips for Best Results

✔ Choose firm, sour raw mangoes for vibrant flavour.
✔ Adjust chillies and spice level to your preference.
✔ Use fresh coconut milk for richer taste and smoother texture.
✔ Stir gently after adding thick coconut milk to avoid curdling.

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🌺 Seasonal & Traditional Note

Mango Mappas is most popular during the raw mango season, when sour mangoes are fresh and abundant. This curry is not only delicious but also brings a bright, vibrant touch to everyday meals and festive lunches alike.