Mangosteen (Mung Kut – มังคุด) : The Queen of Fruits

Mangosteen (Mung Kut – มังคุด)

The Queen of Fruits


Known as the “Queen of Fruits,” Mangosteen (Mung Kut – มังคุด) is a tropical treasure loved for its juicy, sweet-tart flesh and refreshing flavor. With its deep purple rind and snow-white interior, it’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight.

Mangosteen : Mung Kut - มังคุด

Why Mangosteen is Special

  • Flavor: Mangosteen offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a juicy texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Nutritional Value: It’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy indulgence.
  • Cultural Significance: It’s called the Queen of Fruits, often paired with durian (the King of Fruits) in Thai culture.

How to Buy Mangosteen

  1. Check the Skin:

    • Look for mangosteens with smooth, dark purple skin.
    • Avoid fruits with dry, cracked or overly hard skin, as they may be overripe or under-ripe.
  2. Feel for Ripeness:

    • Gently squeeze the fruit—it should yield slightly to pressure. If it’s too firm, it’s not ripe.
    • The softer it feels, the juicier and sweeter the fruit.
  3. Count the Petals:

    • Look at the flower-shaped markings on the bottom of the mangosteen. The number of petals often corresponds to the number of edible segments inside. More petals generally mean more flesh.
  4. Pricing:

    • Mangosteens are usually sold by weight, priced per kilogram (กิโล). During peak season (May–July), they are more affordable and abundant.



Where to Buy Mangosteen

Mangosteens are widely available at:

  • Local Markets: Look for fresh produce stands during the peak season.
  • Street Vendors: Often sold peeled for convenience.
  • Supermarkets: Available year-round, though off-season prices may be higher.


Tips for Enjoying Mangosteen

  • Pair mangosteen with durian for a classic Thai fruit duo. The sweet tang of mangosteen balances the rich creaminess of durian.
  • Bring a small plastic bag for discarded rinds, as the purple juice can stain.


How to Eat Mangosteen

    1. Open the Fruit:

  • Hold the mangosteen with the stem side down.
  • Gently squeeze the fruit until the thick rind cracks open. If it’s tough to crack, use a small knife to score around the middle and twist the halves apart.

    2. Enjoy the Segments:

  • Inside, you’ll find soft white segments, which are the edible flesh.
  • Larger segments may contain a seed; eat around it or remove it before eating.

    3. Savor Fresh:

  • Mangosteen is best eaten fresh to enjoy its juicy, sweet-tart flavor.


Order Phrases


        "Ao Mung Kut Nueng Kilo krub/ka" (เอามังคุด 1 กิโล) - I'd like mangosteen 1 kilogram, please

        "Ao Mung Kut Krueng Kilo krub/ka "  (เอามังคุดครึ่งกิโล)  - I'd like mangosteen 1/2 (half) kilogram, please



- Try the phrases and give a comment feedback -

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