Mango Fool

While in the military, Dad was transferred to Dehradun, set at the foot of the incredible Himalayas ranges. The large old colonial home we lived in for several years was spread over 3 acres. We had an abundance of mango and other fruit trees—and great adventures!

As kids, we enjoyed a whole lot of climbing trees and playing Tarzan. Dad even had a hen house built, and with domestic help, raised Rhode Island red hens and Leghorns. The hired help who lived on the premises took care of it all, so it was a breeze for our family. The house had stables and beautiful stalls. During colonial times, the British must have housed their horses and carriages there. Since the horse and buggy days were over, Dad decided to get a cow and Indian buffalo in place of horses.

There was always milk in abundance, and when the mangos were still raw, I remember Mom would make delicious Mango Fool during the hot summer season. Our house was always a magnet for the kids around the block, so she always had an enamel bucket of mango fool ready for us when we got hot and thirsty.

Now, looking back, I am amazed how Mom was able to feed the many!

A fool is a delicious combination of fruit and milk, but the Mango Fool Mom made was out of this world. It was a drink and not the usual dessert.

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Mango Fool

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 6

A fool is a delicious combination of fruit and milk, but the Mango Fool Mom made was out of this world. It was a drink and not the usual dessert.

Ingredients

• 6-8 medium raw mangoes  (half raw will also do)
• ¾ cup sugar or to taste
• 3 cups water
• 3 cups chilled milk
• 1 cup crushed ice

Instructions 

• Wash and peel the mangoes.
• Boil the peeled mangoes with water and sugar until they are tender. Approximately 20 minutes. Leave to cool.
• Squeeze out the pulp and discard the seed.
• Blend in an electric blender until smooth. If the mangoes you use have threads, strain them through a fine muslin cloth or mesh strainer.
• Chill the mixture until needed.
• When ready to serve, mix the mango mixture with the chilled milk.
• If it tastes too tart, add more sugar or milk to your taste.
• If the mangoes are starting to ripen, they should be sweet enough.
• Pour a quarter cup of crushed ice into tall glasses. Pour the mango fool in and serve with a sprig of fresh mint.
• A cool and refreshing drink for summer!

Notes

Note: This can be made with tart apples as well.