MANGO PUDDING

(Dulce de Mango)

A tropical end to any meal, this pudding is a great way to enjoy mangoes when they are in season. Look for ripe mangoes that are red and yellow on the outside and have a wonderful fragrance. I always get funny looks at the market when I smell the mangoes, but I’d rather suffer an odd look from a stranger than get an unripe mango.

MAKES 4 OR 5 SERVINGS

3 ripe mangoes

One 14-ounce can evaporated milk

2 tablespoons sugar, plus extra as needed (if your mangoes aren’t as ripe and sweet as you thought)

1 tablespoon rum (optional) Sprigs fresh mint for garnish (optional)

Peel, seed, and cube the mangoes. In a blender or food processor, purée them until smooth. Add the evaporated milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, and rum (if using) and pulse-blend until combined. Taste and add more sugar, if needed. Pour into serving dishes and refrigerate to chill before serving.

When ready to serve, garnish with mint sprigs, if you’d like.