Mangosteen

All about Mangosteen, from how to pick out mangosteen, how to eat mangosteen, how to store them, and more.

What is Mangosteen?

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is a tropical evergreen tree fruit. It is also known as the “queen of fruits” or “fruit of the gods” in some cultures. The tree grows from 6-25 meters tall. Mangosteen itself has a thick, purple rind surrounding a moist, snow-white and sweet interior that is divided into segments. Native to Southeast Asia, mangosteen is not only prized for its delicate flavor but also for its long history in traditional medicine.

What do Mangosteen taste like?

The taste of mangosteen is often described as sweet and tangy, with a depth that combines flavors reminiscent of peach, vanilla, and a hint of citrus. The texture is soft and juicy, similar to that of a ripe peach. The unique taste of mangosteen makes it a favorite among exotic fruit lovers.

What types of Mangosteen are there?

While there is one primary variety of mangosteen, there may be variations in size, sweetness, and color depending on the growing conditions and region.

Mangosteen benefits

Mangosteen is a fruit that’s low in calories but high in essential nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin B9, and manganese. Just one cup of canned mangosteen contains 143 calories, 35 grams of carbs, 3.5 grams of fiber, and small amounts of fat and protein. These nutrients play important roles in things like healing wounds, boosting immunity, and supporting nerve function.

Mangosteen is also a good source of fiber, of which many do not get enough of in their daily diet. It’s also rich in antioxidants, particularly xanthones, which have been studied for their potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, supporting immune health, and potentially reducing the risk of certain diseases.(source)

When is Mangosteen in season?

Mangosteen season typically runs from June to August.

How to pick out Mangosteen

Look for mangosteens that have a deep purple skin. They should feel slightly soft to the touch. It should also have a leafy stem and bottom petals that are in tact and green.

How to eat Mangosteen

Rinse the mangosteens under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue. We like to use a little bit of Fruit and Vegetable Wash as well.

Slice the mangosteen in half, but not all the way through.

Twist it open to expose the fruit inside and remove the segments to enjoy, but spit out the seeds.

How to grow Mangosteen

Growing mangosteen requires patience and the right conditions. Thriving in tropical climates, with high humidty, and well drained and rich soil. The tree itself is sensitive to temperatures below 4°C (39°F) and requires a well irrigated site, but without being waterlogged.

The wait can be long. It takes anywhere from 8 to 15 years for a mangosteen tree to begin producing fruit.

How to store Mangosteen

If storing for a few days, you can keep mangosteen on the countertop. For longer storage, up to two weeks, we recommend refrigerating.

How to Freeze Mangosteen

To freeze mangosteen, first, wash the fruit thoroughly. Then, peel the thick rind and remove the edible white segments. Remove the seed and discard. Place the white segments in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze with this method helps prevent the segments from sticking together.

How to enjoy Mangosteen

Mangosteen can be enjoyed fresh, simply by carefully cutting the rind off and twisting it open to get to the juicy segments inside. It has a unique flavor which also makes it a great addition to smoothies or desserts. Mangosteen pairs well with other tropical fruits like banana, pineapple, and coconut.