Mangosteen

Guide Note

Mangosteen is a tropical fruit native to Malaysia, that has a sweet and sour taste and creamy texture.

For many years, it was illegal to import to the United States due to fear of fruit fly infestation. In 2007, Thailand was allowed to begin exporting mangosteen to the U.S., but it is still extremely rare to find as a fresh fruit. Freeze dried mangosteen is more readily available.

Fast Facts

1. Scientific name: Garcinia mangostana
2. Originated in Malaysia
3. High in antioxidants (xanthones), phosphorus, calcium, vitamin B and vitamin C
4. Reddish-purple skin when ripe
5. Favorite fruit of Queen Victoria

An unripe mangosteen shell is fibrous and firm, but becomes soft and easy to pry open once the fruit ripens. The shell is typically scored first with a knife and then, with the fruit in both hands, pried open until the rind cracks and the two halves are pulled apart. The skin contains a purple, inky juice that easily stains skin or clothes.