Mangosteen 101: Nutrition, Benefits, How To Use, Buy, Store | Mangosteen: A Complete Guide

What is Mangosteen

Mangosteen is this small, round fruit that’s kind of a mystery to a lot of people, but once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s called the “queen of fruits.” It’s got this thick, purple skin that’s pretty tough to peel, but inside, you’ll find these white, juicy segments that are sweet with a little bit of tang. Some people say the flavor is like a mix of peach, strawberry, and citrus. It’s really refreshing!

Growing up, I didn’t know much about mangosteen. I actually stumbled upon it when my kids and I were exploring new fruits at a local farmer’s market. We didn’t know how to eat it at first and made a bit of a mess peeling it, but it was worth it. Now, it’s one of those fruits we look for whenever it’s in season.

One thing that’s cool about mangosteen is that it’s packed with nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants, which help keep you healthy. But honestly, we just eat it because it tastes amazing. Just a heads up, it’s not always easy to find, especially fresh, but if you come across it, definitely give it a try! It’s one of those treats that you’ll probably love once you get the hang of it.

Other Names of Mangosteen

Mangosteen is known by a few different names around the world, depending on where you’re from. It’s often called the “queen of fruits,” which is kind of a fancy title, but it makes sense when you taste how sweet it is. In some places, especially in Southeast Asia, people call it “manggis,” and in Thailand, it’s known as “mangkut.”

But it doesn’t stop there—over in the Philippines, it’s called “mangostan.” The names might be a bit different, but they’re all talking about the same juicy, purple fruit that’s hard to resist.

Nutritional Value of Mangosteen

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Calories	73 kcal
Carbohydrates	18 g
Protein	0.6 g
Fat	0.6 g
Fiber	1.8 g
Vitamin C	7.2 mg
Potassium	48 mg
Calcium	12 mg
Iron	0.3 mg
Magnesium	13 mg

Mangosteen is relatively low in calories and contains a good amount of vitamin C and fiber, making it a healthy, sweet snack.

Benefits of Mangosteen

1. Rich in Antioxidants
   Mangosteen is packed with antioxidants, which help fight off free radicals. Free radicals can mess up your cells and cause all kinds of problems like aging faster or getting sick more easily. I always try to sneak in foods with antioxidants for the family because, you know, every little bit helps!
2. Boosts Immune System
   This fruit is like a little immune booster. Mangosteen has vitamin C, which can help your body fight off colds and infections. With three kids running around, staying healthy is a top priority—less sickness means less stress for everyone.
3. Promotes Healthy Skin
   I’ve noticed that eating fruits like mangosteen can actually help with skin health. It’s got anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce acne or other skin irritations. Honestly, I feel like glowing skin is just a bonus when you’re eating well.
4. Supports Heart Health
   Mangosteen can also help with heart health, which is something I didn’t pay much attention to until recently. It helps reduce cholesterol and inflammation, both of which are big factors in keeping your heart happy and healthy.
5. Helps with Digestion
   This fruit can help improve digestion because it’s got a decent amount of fiber. If you’ve ever had kids complain about tummy troubles, you know how important good digestion is! A little mangosteen now and then can keep things moving smoothly.
6. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
   Mangosteen has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help ease pain and swelling. I remember reading about it when my joints were acting up, and it actually makes a difference when you add anti-inflammatory foods into your diet.
7. Supports Weight Loss
   It’s also low in calories but high in nutrients, which makes it great if you’re trying to watch your weight or just eat healthier. And let’s be real, finding something that’s both delicious and nutritious is a win for me and the kids!

Mangosteen might not be the most common fruit, but I think it’s worth trying, especially when you’re looking for simple ways to boost your health.

What Does Mangosteen Taste Like

Mangosteen has such a unique and refreshing taste! If you’ve never tried it before, you’re in for a real treat. It’s often described as sweet and tangy, almost like a mix between a peach, strawberry, and pineapple. When you bite into it, the flesh is super juicy, soft, and a little creamy. The sweetness hits first, but then there’s this gentle tartness that balances it all out. Honestly, it’s one of those fruits that’s hard to describe until you try it yourself.

Plus, the texture is really smooth and melts in your mouth. It’s kinda like a cross between a ripe grape and a really soft orange. But the flavor is way more tropical. Some people say it tastes like candy, but it’s way better because it’s all-natural and fresh. Mangosteen is like a hidden gem—definitely worth trying if you ever get the chance!

How To Use Mangosteen

Eat it fresh.
The easiest way to enjoy mangosteen is to just eat it as it is. Slice the thick purple rind, and scoop out the white segments inside. They’re sweet and a lil’ tangy – almost like a tropical candy!

Make a smoothie.
Toss a few mangosteen segments into your blender with some yogurt, a banana, and ice. It gives your smoothie a fun, exotic flavor. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients!

Mangosteen juice.
You can press mangosteen into juice, or sometimes you can buy it pre-made at health stores. It’s a refreshing drink and also said to be good for boosting your immune system.

Toss into a fruit salad.
Add mangosteen to your favorite fruit salad for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs so well with other tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and kiwi.

Make mangosteen jam.
If you’re feelin’ crafty, you can make a jam out of mangosteen. Just cook the fruit with sugar and lemon juice till it thickens. Spread it on toast for a unique twist!

Mangosteen in desserts.
Mangosteen also works great in desserts. You can use it in cakes, tarts, or even mix it into ice cream for a sweet tropical touch.

Try it in tea.
Some people dry the rind of the mangosteen and use it in tea. It’s a little bitter but mixed with honey, it can make a soothing drink.

How To Use Mangosteen in Recipes:

1. Fresh Mangosteen Snack.
   Slice open the thick purple rind and pop out the juicy white segments. You can eat them as is for a refreshing, sweet-tangy snack. It’s the easiest way to enjoy this fruit—perfect for those busy days!
2. Mangosteen Smoothie Recipe.
   Toss 5-6 mangosteen segments into a blender, add a banana, ½ cup yogurt, a handful of spinach (optional), and a few ice cubes. Blend it up till smooth, and you’ve got yourself a tropical, nutrient-packed smoothie.
3. Mangosteen Juice Recipe.
   To make fresh mangosteen juice, press or blend the segments with 1 cup of water. Strain the mixture to remove any seeds or pulp. Add a squeeze of lime for a zesty twist. It’s a super refreshing drink, especially on hot days.
4. Tropical Fruit Salad with Mangosteen.
   Chop up mangosteen, mango, pineapple, and kiwi, and toss them all together in a bowl. Drizzle a little honey or lime juice over the top. The sweetness of the mangosteen pairs perfectly with the other fruits for a fun, tropical salad!
5. Mangosteen Jam Recipe.
   Combine 2 cups of mangosteen flesh with 1 cup of sugar and the juice of 1 lemon in a saucepan. Cook it over low heat, stirring often, until it thickens into a jammy consistency (about 20-25 minutes). Spread it on toast or use it in sandwiches!
6. Mangosteen Ice Cream Recipe.
   Blend 1 cup of mangosteen flesh with ½ cup of sugar and 1 cup of heavy cream. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and follow the machine’s instructions. You’ll end up with a creamy, tropical-flavored ice cream that’s perfect for summer.
7. Mangosteen Herbal Tea Recipe.
   For a unique tea, dry the rind of the mangosteen (sun-dry or use a dehydrator), then steep it in hot water for about 10 minutes. Add honey or lemon to taste. It’s a soothing drink with a slight bitterness balanced by the sweetness of honey.

Substitute for Mangosteen

Lychee
Lychee’s juicy sweetness is a great replacement for mangosteen. I love how lychees are super easy to find, especially during the summer. They’ve got that soft flesh and slightly floral flavor, just like mangosteen. If I can’t find mangosteen, lychees are my go-to.

Rambutan
Rambutan looks like a spiky little ball, but inside, it’s got this juicy, sweet taste that’s similar to mangosteen. It might be a little less tart, but I think it works well in most recipes. Plus, it’s fun for the kids to open!

Passion Fruit
Passion fruit has that tartness and sweetness that kind of reminds me of mangosteen. It’s a bit more tangy, but in a pinch, I use it in salads or desserts when I can’t find mangosteen. It’s a little messier to eat, but worth it.

Pineapple
Now, hear me out! Pineapple can be a bit more acidic, but when I need that tropical sweetness and can’t get mangosteen, a bit of fresh pineapple can do the trick. It’s easy to find, and you can even throw it into smoothies for a refreshing twist.

White Peaches
White peaches have that subtle sweetness with a hint of floral notes, kinda like mangosteen. If you need something for a fresh fruit salad, I find white peaches work perfectly fine. They’re not tropical, but hey, they’re delicious!

Where to Buy Mangosteen

1. Local Grocery Stores
   Sometimes you can find mangosteen at your nearby grocery store, especially if they carry a wide variety of exotic fruits. It might not always be available, but it’s worth checking the produce section. I’ve had luck finding them during the summer, though it can be hit or miss!
2. Farmer’s Markets
   Depending on where you live, local farmer’s markets might carry mangosteen. I once found a farmer’s market stand that had them, and they were super fresh! You might have to ask around or explore markets that sell tropical fruits.
3. Asian Supermarkets
   These are often the best bet for finding mangosteen. Stores that specialize in Asian foods or tropical produce are more likely to stock it, especially during peak season. If you have an Asian supermarket near you, definitely check there first!
4. Online Stores
   In this day and age, you can find almost anything online. Websites like Amazon or specialty fruit sellers offer fresh or even frozen mangosteen delivered to your door. It’s convenient, but be prepared to pay a little more for shipping. I personally love the convenience of online ordering when I can’t find it locally.
5. Specialty Health Food Stores
   Places like Whole Foods or other health-focused grocery stores sometimes carry mangosteen, especially if it’s in demand for its health benefits. It’s not guaranteed, but they might have it in stock. I’ve only found it a couple of times there, but it’s always worth a look.

How To Store Mangosteen

1. At Room Temperature
   When you first bring home fresh mangosteen, it’s tempting to just dig right in! If you’re planning to enjoy them within a couple of days, keeping them at room temperature is totally fine. Just find a cool, dry spot in your kitchen, maybe on the counter or a fruit bowl. Avoid sunlight, as that can make them ripen too fast. I remember once getting a bunch of mangosteen and leaving them out on the counter, thinking they looked so pretty. Within a day, they were perfectly ripe and oh-so-delicious! Just keep an eye on them; if they start to get soft, it’s time to eat up!
2. In the Refrigerator
   If you want your mangosteen to last a bit longer, the fridge is your friend. You’ll want to place them in a paper bag or a container that allows some airflow. I like using a breathable container like a mesh bag or even a regular bowl with a lid that isn’t completely sealed. Just make sure not to wash them before putting them in the fridge, as moisture can lead to mold. When you’re ready to enjoy a refreshing mangosteen snack, just take them out and rinse them off. I often pull mine out on a hot summer day for a cool treat—it feels like biting into a little piece of paradise!
3. Freezing Mangosteen
   For long-term storage, freezing mangosteen is a great option! First, peel the mangosteen and separate the juicy segments—this part is fun, like unwrapping a present! Once you have your segments ready, spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This prevents them from sticking together. After a few hours in the freezer, transfer those little gems to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to use them, toss them into smoothies, yogurt, or even desserts. I love adding frozen mangosteen to my smoothies for a tropical twist! Just keep in mind that freezing can change the texture a bit, but the flavor stays fantastic!
4. Drying Mangosteen
   If you’re looking for something a bit different, drying mangosteen can be a fun project! Start by slicing them into thin pieces, making sure they’re not too thick—about a quarter-inch works well. You can use a dehydrator, which is super easy, or your oven set to a low temperature (around 140°F or 60°C). Spread the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them dry until they’re nice and chewy. I love to snack on dried fruits, and dried mangosteen is no exception! Once they’re ready, store them in an airtight container in a cool place. They make a perfect on-the-go snack for busy days with the kids!
5. In Sugar Syrup
   This method is for those sweet tooth moments! Making a sugar syrup is super simple—just mix equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and let it cool. Once it’s cooled down, you can add peeled mangosteen segments to a clean jar and pour the syrup over them until they’re fully submerged. This method not only extends the life of the mangosteen but also makes a delightful addition to ice cream or yogurt. I remember once making a batch for a summer party, and they disappeared quickly! Just keep the jar in the fridge, and they should last a couple of weeks—if they last that long!

These methods for storing mangosteen are easy and can help you enjoy this unique fruit for longer. Whether you prefer them fresh, frozen, dried, or in syrup, there’s a way to savor the sweet, tangy goodness of mangosteen no matter how busy life gets. If you have any tips or experiences with mangosteen, I’d love to hear them! Happy storing!

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