Mexican Paletas

Paletas are Mexico's famous ice pops, made with real fruit and a fraction of the sugar of shop-bought versions. This mango and lime version is bright, tangy and wonderfully refreshing, with an optional whisper of chilli. They are the perfect homemade treat for a hot afternoon.

Prep time

15 mins

Cook time

5 mins

Total time

20 mins

Servings

6 servings

Calories

160

Ingredients

• 2 large ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped (about 400 g flesh)
• 120 ml water
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
• 1/4 teaspoon chilli powder (optional)
• 1 pinch of salt
• 6 ice pop moulds and sticks

Instructions

1. Add the mango, water, lime juice, sugar and salt to a blender and blend until completely smooth.
2. Taste and adjust the sweetness or lime to your liking; the mixture should taste slightly stronger than you want the finished pops.
3. Stir in the chilli powder if you like a gentle warmth.
4. Pour the mixture into ice pop moulds, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.
5. Insert the sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until completely solid.
6. To release, run each mould briefly under warm water and pull the paleta out gently.

Pro tips

• Use very ripe fruit for the sweetest flavour and least added sugar.
• A pinch of salt makes the fruit flavour pop.
• Freeze for a full 4 hours or the centres will stay soft.
• Try strawberry, watermelon or pineapple for easy variations.

Frequently asked questions