Mangoes originated in Southern Asia over 6,000 years ago. They can be a rich red, a warm orange, yellow or green in colour.

Nutritionally, they are rich in vitamins A and C. What is it about the mango that causes people to swoon? I have witnessed two men fighting over mangoes, a complete stranger recently stopped outside my gate asking to come in and pick mangoes off my tree, and I know people who will skip meals and solely consume the fruit until they feel sick.

Right now we are enjoying the bounty from our gardens across the country or bags filled to capacity which have been given to us from generous friends and family.

Is it the succulent orange flesh, the sensual roundness, the perfumed smell of its skin? Why are we so crazy over the mango? Mango season is back again and you will see the varieties appearing in full force.

Jamaica is blessed in abundance from the elegant East Indian, the juicy Julie, big Bombays and Beef, numerous Number 11s, beautiful Black, little round Robins, the saucy Sweetie Come Brush Me (only on this island could we have such a name), the Haydn and of course the humble Common mango. Goodness, I’ve run out of breath trying to recall off the top of my head the names of the types we have been blessed with.

I am positive that there are more which I am ignorant of, plus quirky hybrids too. Enjoy your mangoes and try out these recipes for fun.