By IANS
New Delhi : Delectable Indian mangoes added flavour to kebabs, boiled potatoes and drinks as the king of fruits was presented in all its interesting variety to woo diplomats and senior officials here Thursday ahead of a two-day mango festival.
The 19th Mango Festival, starting Saturday, will aim to showcase the different varieties of mangoes grown in various parts of India.
Diplomats of around 10 countries including Romania, the US, Brazil, Japan and China were present at the function appreciating varieties like Chausa, Langra, Gulab Khas and Alphonso.
The diplomats were not only served mangoes as drinks, but also treated to a spread of lip-smacking kebabs, tikkas, stuffed potatoes and other traditional Indian cuisine, with mangoes used as a main flavouring.
"We love Indian mangoes, especially the Alphonso," said Hajime Matsumara of the Japanese embassy in New Delhi. "We cannot afford to miss it since it is only available for a limited period of the year.
"India is now also exporting mangoes to Japan and I know many people there who love Indian mangoes," the official said.
India, which produces more than half of the world's mango supply, exports its mangoes and mango-based products to around 80 countries.
The mango fest is being organised jointly by the Delhi Tourism and the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).