Try Cebu's fabled Dried Mangoes, one of the favorite fruit snacks of Filipinos here and abroad. The province of Cebu has long been known as the main source of dried mangoes, one of the Philippines' most famous export products.

Dried mango, whether it is the ripe or green variety, is a healthy alternative to sugary snacks. It is naturally sweet and rich in vitamins. It can be used as a topping for ice cream and can be eaten alone as a snack and dessert. Its chewy consistency and tartness lingers in your mouth.

You could buy packed dried mangoes in pasalubong (souvenir gift) stores in Cebu. It is also available in your local groceries and convenient stores anywhere in the Philippines but is way cheaper in Cebu.

Popular brands are Joanna Dried Mangoes, Cebu Delights Dried Mangoes, Cebu's Lucky Dried Mangoes, Natural Delights Dried Mangoes and La2Pu Dried Green Mango. They come in 100g, 200g and 1kg packs. Prices range from Php60 to Php800.00 depending on packaging size.

If you would like to try making your own dried mangoes, try this simple recipe:

Ingredients:

·10 kg firm ripe mangoes

·1.8 kg refined sugar ·4-liter water

·10 g sodium metabisulfite

Materials:

·Stainless steel peeler

·Stainless steel knife

·Cheesecloth

·Chopping board

·Thermometer

·Colander or strainer

·Cabinet dryer

·Polyethylene bags

Procedures:

1. Wash mangoes thoroughly.

2. Peel using stainless steel peeler.

3. Slice diagonally about 5/16 of an inch thick.

4. Prepare syrup by mixing sugar, water and sodium metabisulfite.

5. Heat the syrup then add the mango slices. Heat until 90 °C

6. Soak mangoes in syrup for 6 hours overnight.

7. Drain the mangoes from the syrup.

8. Spread on trays and dry at 45-55 °C for at least 18 hours.

9. Sweat in cheesecloth overnight.

10. Pack in polyethylene bags and seal.

(Source: BPI - NMRDC San Miguel, Jordan, Guimaras)

Did you know that dried mangoes are also an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals such as C, E, K, B, iron, potassium and calcium? Dried mangoes can help prevent and fight the common cold, flu and nausea. It could help prevent and treat constipation and diarrhea.

How to Get There:

Going to Cebu is easy. From Manila, you can fly to Cebu (estimated cost of Php3,000++, round trip, 45 minutes). And from the Cebu Airport, you will need to hire a cab (minimum price of Php400.00, 20-30 minutes) to go to the actual city and to your destination.