MOST mango lovers maintain that the Alphonso is best enjoyed in its natural state. I used to as well.

Untill I covered the Mango festival "Mango obsession with a twist" at the Royal Meridien, Mumbai, orchestrated by Executive Chef Frederic Molinie last year.

Honestly, I went under duress the slew of dishes the press note listed sounded too exotic and I have always been wary of fusion cooking. Besides, who would have the temerity to COOK a perfectly ripe, succulent, delicious mango?

In the photograph: Ripe Alphonso mangoes

Photograph: stock.xchang