Aam Ras | Ambyacha Ras

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Aam Ras, or Ambyacha Ras in Marathi meaning “Mango Juice,” is a beloved Indian delicacy made by pulping ripe mangoes and infusing them with sugar and cardamom. This dish is a traditional summer treat, eagerly anticipated when mangoes are in season. While this delicacy can be crafted from a variety of mango cultivars, the esteemed Alphonso mango reigns supreme as the most commonly used variety.

The charm of Aam Ras during the scorching summer months extends beyond its exquisite taste; it also has numerous health benefits.

• Firstly, mangoes possess a naturally high sugar content, making them an ideal choice for replenishing the body’s lost sugars and fluids during the hot season, especially when dehydration is a concern due to excessive sweating.

• Secondly, the consumption of mangoes aids in regulating internal body temperature, effectively warding off the risk of heat strokes by keeping the body cool.

Where I grew up (Nagpur, Maharashtra), Alphonso mangoes were quite elusive. Instead, my Mom would craft Ambyacha ras using mangoes harvested from our backyard or the readily available baganapalli variety. Though their flavor differed, we always loved (and still do!) the Ambyacha Ras my mom and grandma made.

When my sister went to Pune for college, she brought back a box of Alphonso mangoes for us to try. they were so delicious, we finished them in just a few days. However, our local baganapalli mangoes are special too. They have created childhood memories for us which are a part of our life.

Later, when I moved to the US, I found Atulfo Mangoes, similar to Alphonso. They’re smaller but taste just as good.

So, do give this recipe a try with whichever seasonal varieties of mangoes you find in your nearby market. I guarantee you will never regret your decision.

Ingredients

Ripe Alphonso mangoes, Sugar (optional), Cardamom powder (optional, for added flavor), milk (optional)

Instructions

Prepare Mangoes:

• Wash the ripe mangoes under running water to remove any dirt or residue. Peel the mangoes using a knife or vegetable peeler, ensuring to remove all the skin.
• Once peeled, cut the mangoes into chunks, discarding the seeds.

Blend Mangoes:

• Place the mango chunks into a blender. Add sugar (if using), milk and cardamom powder to the blender.
• The sugar is optional and can be adjusted according to the sweetness of the mangoes and your preference for sweetness.

Blend Until Smooth:

• Secure the lid of the blender tightly and blend the mango mixture until you achieve a smooth consistency.
• If the mixture appears too thick, you can add a little milk to adjust the consistency. Start with a small amount and gradually increase if needed.

Adjust Sweetness:

• Once blended, taste the Aam Ras to check the sweetness.
• If you prefer it sweeter, you can add more sugar and blend again until well incorporated. Remember to taste as you go to avoid over-sweetening.

Transfer to Serving Bowl:

• Once you’re satisfied with the taste and consistency of the Aam Ras, transfer it to a serving bowl or individual cups.

Chill and Serve:

• If you have time, chill the Aam Ras in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. Chilling helps enhance the flavors and makes it even more refreshing. However, this is an optional step.

Garnish (optional):

• Before serving, you can garnish the Aam Ras with a sprinkle of cardamom powder or saffron.
• Serve the chilled Aam Ras as a refreshing dessert or snack during hot summer days.

Serving Suggestions

• Aam Ras is most commonly enjoyed with pooris, which are fried puffed rotis. The combination of the soft, fluffy pooris with the sweet and tangy Ambyacha Ras creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
• If you’re looking for a simpler option, this Ras also tastes delicious with plain paratha. The flaky layers of the paratha complement the smoothness of the Aam Ras, making it a satisfying meal or snack.
• Some parts of Maharashtra also serve Ambyacha Ras with Puran poli. Though this might not be a very good choice given the high amount of sugar present in both the dishes, but it can be enjoyed if you are low on sugar.
• For a unique twist, try serving Aam Ras with Kurdai, a Maharashtrian delicacy made from fried wheat noodles. These crispy noodles add a delightful crunch to the creamy Aam Ras, creating a perfect balance of textures.
• To enhance the flavor of the Aam Ras, consider garnishing it with a tablespoon of melted ghee. The rich and nutty flavor of the ghee adds an extra layer of indulgence to this already delicious dessert.

Tips and Tricks

• Choose ripe, fragrant mangoes for the best flavor.
• Experiment with different varieties of mangoes to discover unique flavor profiles. Alphonso, Kesar, Baganapalli are popular choices for making Ambyacha Ras.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the Ras through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove any fibrous bits.
• Freeze leftover Aam Ras into popsicle molds for a delicious frozen treat on hot summer days.

• You can prepare this Aam Ras and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• Alternatively, you can freeze the Ras in ice cube trays and store the blocks in a zip lock bag. When serving, simply take out the desired amount and thaw it on the countertop or overnight in the fridge.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned mango pulp instead of fresh mangoes?

A: While fresh mangoes are preferred for the best flavor, you can use canned mango pulp as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly, as canned pulp may already contain added sugar.

Q: How long does Ambyacha Ras last in the refrigerator?

A: Aam Ras can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to prevent any odor absorption from other foods.

Q: Can I make this Ras without a blender?

A: Yes, you can manually mash the ripe mangoes using a fork or potato masher until you achieve a smooth consistency. It may take a bit more effort, but it’s definitely doable!

Q: Is Aam Ras suitable for vegan diets?

A: Absolutely! Aam Ras is naturally vegan-friendly since it’s made from mangoes. You can skip the milk altogether or use any plant based milk of your choice.