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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 -