Learning how to peel mangosteens is the first step toward enjoying this exotic fruit, which has intrigued me ever since my daughter sent pictures of them from China. With their vibrant purple exterior and sweet, unique flavor, these mysterious fruits are a delicious treat waiting to be discovered.
The Mysterious Mangosteen
My fascination with the mangosteen began with a pair of captivating pictures from Harbin, China’s ice city. One image showcased a small, dark purple fruit, while the other revealed the bright white segments inside. My daughter, who was on a study-abroad trip in northern China, had stumbled upon this intriguing fruit, and her pictures piqued my curiosity
Although this fruit is common in southern China and Southeast Asia, where it is grown, it is not a common fruit in a northern city like Harbin, which is closer to Siberia, Russia, than to its own capital, Beijing. Nonetheless, she bought and ate imported mangosteens and introduced me to this luxurious fruit.
What is a Mangosteen?
Grown primarily in Southeast Asia—and to a lesser extent in Puerto Rico—mangosteens are a rarity in the United States. I recently visited an Asian market and discovered a few specimens. Although they were slightly overripe compared to those my daughter enjoyed, I couldn’t wait to try them.
In addition to Asian grocery stores and specialty food stores, mangosteens are also available online and occasionally at places like Whole Foods and Costco. They are in season from May to September and are most often found in the U.S. during the summer months.
How to Peel Mangosteens: Identifying Fresh Mangosteens
When selecting mangosteens, look for their thick, dark purple skin and a vibrant green stem; these are indicators of freshness. Additionally, the underside of the fruit features a unique flower-shaped pattern that reveals the number of fruit sections. How interesting is that?
How to Peel Mangosteens: Preparing to Taste
To enjoy a mangosteen, you’ll need a knife. Carefully cut about 1/4 inch (or around 6 mm) into the shell all the way around the fruit. This step is crucial for separating the halves. If the shell proves stubborn, don’t hesitate to cut deeper. Once you’ve successfully opened it, you’ll reveal the fruit’s white, sectioned interior, resembling an orange. However, be careful with juice from the outer shell, as it can easily stain light surfaces.
How to Peel Mangosteens: The Flavor Experience
What does a mangosteen taste like? The flavor strikes a pleasing balance between sweetness and tartness, reminiscent of oranges with a hint of peach. However, its unique taste sets it apart from any other fruit. Admittedly, the mangosteen I tried was a bit overripe—the middle had started to turn translucent—but it still delivered a tasty experience.
A Creative Twist
As I savored the mangosteen, I couldn’t help but imagine its potential in the kitchen. Just think of mangosteen ice cream or sorbet! Its distinct flavor would undoubtedly make for an intriguing and delicious dessert.
Now, I’m on a mission to find more mangosteens. With such a unique taste and endless possibilities for culinary creations, I can’t wait to explore this fascinating fruit even further. Who knows what other delicious surprises await me in the world of mangosteens?
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