Mangosteen, often called the “Queen of Fruits,” is a tropical delight gaining global attention. This exotic fruit, with its striking appearance and delicate flavor, is increasingly recognized globally.
What is Mangosteen
Mangosteen, scientifically known as Garcinia mangostana, belongs to the Clusiaceae family of evergreen trees. This tropical tree is native to Island Southeast Asia, particularly the Malay Peninsula and Borneo, and has been cultivated for centuries across regions like Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and parts of southwest India and Sri Lanka.
The fruit itself is round, about the size of a tangerine, with a thick, inedible, deep reddish-purple rind when ripe. Inside this firm exterior lies snow-white, segmented flesh, resembling mandarin orange sections. Each segment of the fragrant, juicy flesh offers a delicate taste. Its flavor is a delicate balance of sweet and tangy, often described as having hints of peach, lychee, strawberry, and even pineapple.
How to Enjoy Mangosteen
Selecting a ripe mangosteen is the first step to enjoying this tropical fruit, and it should feel slightly soft to the touch with a vibrant, deep purple color and an undamaged shell. A helpful tip for selection is to observe the number of lobes at the fruit’s base; this number typically corresponds to the number of fleshy segments inside, with more lobes generally indicating fewer seeds. Once selected, the fruit’s thick rind can be scored around the middle with a knife, taking care not to cut too deeply into the delicate white arils. Gently twisting the two halves or applying slight pressure will then separate the rind, revealing the luscious, segmented flesh within.
The white, juicy segments are the edible part of the fruit and are best enjoyed raw to appreciate their natural flavor and delicate texture. While the arils are largely seedless, some segments may contain a flattened, almond-shaped seed that is typically not consumed. Mangosteen can be savored on its own as a refreshing snack or dessert, or it can be combined with other tropical fruits like papaya, watermelon, or pineapple to create delightful fruit salads. Its versatility also extends to being made into jams, juices, or sorbets for varied culinary experiences.
Health Benefits of Mangosteen
Mangosteen is low in calories and fat, providing a good source of dietary fiber. A single cup of mangosteen offers about 3.5 grams of fiber, which contributes to digestive wellness and can help stabilize blood sugar levels. The fruit also contains various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, manganese, copper, folate, and B vitamins.
The fruit’s health benefits come from its powerful antioxidants, particularly xanthones. These xanthones exhibit strong antioxidant activity by neutralizing free radicals that can contribute to cellular damage. These compounds also contribute to the fruit’s anti-inflammatory properties, potentially helping to reduce markers of inflammation in the body. Its Vitamin C and fiber content support a healthy immune system, aiding immune cell function and potentially offering antibacterial effects. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions may also contribute to skin health, protecting against environmental damage.
Availability and Storage
Fresh mangosteen can be found in specialty grocery stores, Asian markets, and increasingly through online retailers. The fruit’s availability is often seasonal, with the primary harvest period in regions north of the equator typically occurring from June to August, although some areas near the equator may experience a longer season. Historically, the import of fresh mangosteens into certain countries, such as the United States, was restricted until 2007 due to concerns about agricultural pests, but they are now permitted after irradiation.
Proper storage maintains mangosteen’s quality and freshness. Optimal storage conditions suggest keeping the fruit at around 56°F (13.3°C) with a high relative humidity of 90-95% for an extended shelf life of two to four weeks. Refrigeration can prolong freshness for several days beyond room temperature storage. Consume the fruit soon after purchase, as its quality does not improve over time.