Fresh mangosteen

Types of Fresh Mangosteen

Fresh mangosteen is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. It has a thick, purple rind with white, juicy pulp. Its taste is sweet and tangy. The fruit's velvety exterior contrasts sharply with the juicy, white, segmented flesh inside. This gives it a unique appearance and flavor profile.

The following are some common types of fresh mangosteen:

• Common mangosteen

  The common mangosteen is the most widely recognized variety around the globe. It has a vibrant, deep purple hue when ripe. The fruit’s flesh is white and tender. The taste is sweet, slightly tart, and refreshing. Mangosteen juice is known for its health benefits and unique flavor. It is often mixed with other fruit juices.

• Yellow mangosteen

  The yellow mangosteen is less known than its purple counterpart. Instead of a purple skin, it has a yellowish exterior when ripe. The taste is sweeter and less tart than the yellow mangosteen. Some describe it as almost honey-like. The yellow mangosteen is often eaten fresh but is less available in markets.

• Thai mangosteen

  The Thai variety is the most famous mangosteen type due to its popularity in Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries. It is slightly smaller than other varieties but boasts a more intense flavor. The fruit's texture is a bit firmer than mangosteens grown in other regions.

• Philippine mangosteen

  In the Philippines, mangosteen is known as "mangosteen." It has a rounder shape than other varieties. The Philippine mangosteen is slightly larger than the Thai variety but offers the same rich, sweet taste.

• Vietnamese mangosteen

  Mangosteen from Vietnam has a color that ranges from deep purple to almost black. It is physically similar to the Thai variety, but some people say it has a stronger, more concentrated flavor. The mangosteen tree grows best in humid tropical climates. So the fruit thrives in the rainy season.

Health Benefits of Fresh Mangosteen

Fresh mangosteen offers numerous health benefits. This is due to its rich nutritional profile and high antioxidant content.

• Rich in antioxidants

  Mangosteen is packed with xanthones. These are compounds that have powerful antioxidant properties. They help neutralize free radicals in the body. This reduces oxidative stress and lowers the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

• Boosts immune system

  Mangosteen contains vitamin C. It is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Vitamin C stimulates the production of white blood cells. This helps the body fight off infections and illnesses.

• Anti-inflammatory properties

  The xanthones in mangosteen also have anti-inflammatory effects. They can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.

• Supports digestive health

  Mangosteen is a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system. It aids in regular bowel movements and supports gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

• Skin health

  Mangosteen is commonly found in beauty products. Its antioxidants help protect the skin from damage, reduce signs of aging, and promote a healthy, radiant complexion. Additionally, mangosteen may help treat acne due to its antibacterial properties.

• Low in calories

  Mangosteen is relatively low in calories and high in water content. This makes it a healthy choice for snacking without adding excessive calories.

• Rich in vitamins and minerals

  Mangosteen contains essential nutrients such as vitamin B1, B2, B5, and vitamin C. It also has minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These contribute to overall health, supporting functions such as nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and bone health.

Uses of Fresh Mangosteen

Fresh mangosteen is a versatile tropical fruit with a unique flavor and numerous culinary and non-culinary uses.

• Culinary uses

  Fresh mangosteen is often eaten raw to enjoy its sweet and tangy flavor. It is a popular ingredient in fruit salads that add a burst of tropical flavor. Mangosteen can be blended into smoothies for a refreshing and nutrient-rich drink. People mix it with other fruits or add it to yogurt, desserts, and puddings for added flavor and texture.

• Juices and beverages

  Mangosteen juice is often prepared by blending the pulp with other fruits. This creates a delicious and nutritious drink. It is also used to make cocktails, adding a unique flavor to mixed drinks. In some cultures, fermented mangosteen is consumed as a probiotic drink.

• Desserts

  With its juicy flesh and sweet flavor, mangosteen can be used in various dessert recipes. People use it to prepare sorbets, ice creams, and gels. It adds a rich, creamy texture and a beautiful hue to cakes, pies, and tarts when combined with other fruits.

• Cosmetic uses

  People extract mangosteen oil from the rind and pulp for use in skincare products. It helps protect the skin from damage and offers anti-aging benefits. Mangosteen is sometimes used in shampoos and conditioners aimed at promoting healthy hair and a healthy scalp.

• Health supplements

  Mangosteen pulp, rind, and peel are often prepared as a supplement in capsule or pill form. It is used to strengthen the immune system and to promote overall health. Some people take extracts of mangosteen peel that offers anti-inflammatory effects. It may help manage conditions like arthritis or other inflammatory disorders.

• Traditional medicine

  The rind of the mangosteen fruit has been used for centuries in Southeast Asia's traditional medicine. It helps treat various ailments. This includes diarrhea, skin infections, and wounds. Mangosteen is sometimes consumed as a tea made from dried mangosteen peel.

• Cooking with whole mangosteen

  As the fruit becomes more available, people will increasingly cook with whole fresh mangosteen instead of using purees or juices. It is a trendy ingredient in many recipes. This will increase demand for whole fruits and possibly lead to the development of new harvesting and storage solutions.

How to Store Fresh Mangosteen

Proper storage will help preserve the freshness and flavor of the fruit until it is ready to be eaten.

• Room temperature

  Leave ripe mangosteen at room temperature for a day or two. This allows the fruit to fully ripen. Keep the fruit in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. Exposure to sunlight can cause the fruit to over-ripen and spoil faster.

• Refrigeration

  Refrigerate mangosteen to extend its shelf life if it is not consumed right away. The cold environment helps slow down the ripening process, keeping the fruit fresh for up to 1-2 weeks. Store mangosteen in the produce drawer of the refrigerator, as this area maintains a slightly higher humidity level than other parts of the fridge.

• Storage containers

  Store mangosteen in breathable containers like basket or mesh bag. It helps maintain air circulation around the fruit. Avoid storing them in airtight containers, as trapping moisture will cause mold to develop on the fruit.

• Separation from other fruits

  Keep mangosteen separate from other fruits, especially those that emit high levels of ethylene gas. These fruits include apples, bananas, and avocados. Ethylene gas accelerates the ripening process. This will cause mangosteen to spoil faster if stored nearby.

• Freezing

  Freezing is an option if there is a need to store mangosteen for a longer period. To freeze, peel the fruit and separate the segments or leave it whole. Place the prepared fruit in an airtight freezer bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Frozen mangosteen can last up to 6 months in the freezer.

• Canning

  Fresh mangosteen can be preserved for a longer period through canning. The process involves cooking the fruit in a syrup and sealing it in jars. This method allows the fruit to be stored at room temperature for several months to a year.

How to Choose Fresh Mangosteen

Selecting ripe fresh mangosteen ensures the fruit has a rich, sweet, and slightly tart flavor.

• Color

  You should choose mangosteen with a deep purple or almost black exterior color. The color indicates that the fruit is ripe and ready to eat. Avoid fruits with green spots or a pale color on the skin. It shows that the fruit is under-ripe. If the color is too dark or black, it may be overripe.

• Texture

  The rind should feel slightly soft when gently squeezed. This softness indicates that the fruit is ripe and the flesh inside is tender and juicy. Pressing too hard will cause the rind to break. So, be gentle. If the rind is too hard and firm, the fruit may be under-ripe and not as sweet.

• Shape and size

  Choose mangosteen that have a round shape and are of a medium size. Both sizes will ensure a good balance of pulp and rind. Those that are larger tend to have more seeds. Go for smaller fruits instead. They are likely to have more tender flesh.

• Battle scars

  Mangosteen has a thick, hard rind that can sometimes show faint scars, cracks, or blemishes. Mild scarring is normal for mangosteen. It doesn’t affect the quality or the taste of the fruit. But if the signs are deep, pronounced, or appear slimy, avoid those fruits. They are likely spoiled or rotten.

• Stem caps

  The stem cap or crown of the mangosteen should look fresh and green. It shouldn’t be dried out or wilting. A fresh stem cap indicates that the fruit was harvested recently and is likely to be fresh.

• Fruit firmness

  Look for mangosteen where the fruit feels firm and shows a little give when pressed. This slight softness indicates that the fruit is ripe and ready to eat. Those that feel too soft may be overripe and spoiled. Conversely, if the fruit is too hard, it may be unripe and not have the ideal flavor.

Q&A

Q1. Is it okay to eat mangosteen every day?

Daily consumption of mangosteen is generally safe for most people. Doing so offers numerous health benefits due to its rich antioxidant content, vitamins, and minerals. These promote overall health and support the immune system.

Q2. How does one peel a mangosteen?

Peeling a mangosteen requires some care. The mangosteen fruit should be placed on a cutting board after washing it thoroughly. Use a sharp knife to trim off the top flower-end of the fruit. The cut should be about 1/4 inch from the top. Next, score the rind by carefully cutting shallow lines from top to bottom around the fruit. Do this at 2-3 intervals. Then, gently apply pressure to break the rind and remove the outer skin to expose the white flesh. Lastly, separate or bite off the tender white segments to enjoy the fruit.

Q3. Does fresh mangosteen taste good?

Fresh mangosteen has a unique and delightful flavor profile. The taste is often described as a combination of sweet and tangy with a hint of floralness. It is juicy and has a slightly firm texture that is creamy. It is sweetness will sometimes depend on the ripeness of the fruit. Ripe mangosteen will be sweeter and more flavorful. But if it is overripe, it can be overly sweet and have a mushy texture. Conversely, under-ripe mangosteen will taste mildly sweet, bordering on tartness, and have a more acidic flavor.

Q4. Can a diabetic person eat mangosteen?

Mangosteen is relatively low in carbohydrates and has a low glycemic index. This makes it a suitable option for diabetics who want to enjoy a sweet treat without causing blood sugar levels to spike. Its high fiber content slows the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. This helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevents sharp insulin spikes.