Rambutan (เงาะ - Ngoh): Thailand’s Juicy and Exotic Tropical Fruit
Thailand is home to an abundance of delicious tropical fruits, and rambutan (เงาะ - Ngoh) is one of the most eye-catching and flavorful. With its hairy red and green shell and sweet, juicy flesh, rambutan is a must-try for anyone visiting Thailand. Known for its refreshing taste and soft texture, this fruit is not only a delight to eat but also packed with nutrients.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes rambutan special, its health benefits, how to eat it, where to find it, and why it’s a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
What is Rambutan?
Rambutan is a tropical fruit that belongs to the Sapindaceae family, the same family as lychee and longan. Its name comes from the Malay word "rambut," meaning "hair," referring to its spiky, hairy skin. Native to Southeast Asia, rambutan is widely grown in Thailand, particularly in the southern and eastern provinces like Trat, Rayong and Surat Thani.
What Does Rambutan Look and Taste Like?
Appearance:
- Outer Shell: Bright red or yellow with soft, hair-like spikes.
- Inner Flesh: Translucent white, similar to lychee, with a single inedible seed in the center.
Taste & Texture:
✔ Sweet & Juicy – Rambutan has a mildly sweet, slightly floral flavor.
✔ Soft & Succulent – The flesh is tender and refreshing, perfect for hot weather.
✔ Slightly Tart – Some varieties have a hint of tanginess, balancing the sweetness.
Nutritional Benefits of Rambutan
Rambutan isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with essential nutrients that offer numerous health benefits:
1. High in Vitamin C 🍊
- Boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
- Aids in collagen production, keeping skin youthful.
2. Rich in Fiber 🌿
- Supports digestive health and helps prevent constipation.
- Keeps you full longer, making it a great snack for weight management.
3. Contains Antioxidants 🛡️
- Helps protect the body from free radicals and inflammation.
- May support heart health and improve circulation.
4. Provides Essential Minerals 💪
- Iron: Supports oxygen transport in the blood.
- Copper & Manganese: Important for bone health and metabolism.
5. Hydrating & Low in Calories 💦
- Over 80% water, making it a great fruit for staying hydrated.
- Low in calories, making it a guilt-free treat!
How to Eat Rambutan
Eating rambutan is easy and fun! Here’s how:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Pick a ripe rambutan – Look for bright red or yellow skin with firm, fresh-looking spines.
- Use a knife or fingers – Make a small cut or squeeze the shell gently until it splits.
- Peel away the outer shell – The juicy white flesh inside will be revealed.
- Remove the seed – The seed is not edible, so eat around it or pop it out.
- Enjoy! – Eat fresh or chill it for an extra refreshing taste.
Pro Tip:
Rambutan is best enjoyed cold with crushed ice and syrup, called Ngoh Loy Kaew, on a hot day!
Where to Find Rambutan in Thailand
🥭 Fresh Markets – Widely available in fruit stalls across Thailand.
🏪 Supermarkets – Sold in grocery stores like Big C, Tesco Lotus and Makro.
🚚 Street Vendors – Many vendors sell pre-peeled rambutan in small bags for convenience.
🍹 Smoothie Stalls – Some juice bars blend rambutan into tropical drinks.
Best Season to Eat Rambutan
- Peak Season: May to September (but available year-round in some regions).
- Best Provinces: Trat, Rayong, and Surat Thani are famous for producing the best rambutans in Thailand.
How is Rambutan Sold in Thailand?
Sold by Kilogram (กิโล - Kilo)
- Rambutan is typically sold by weight, with prices per kilogram clearly displayed on signs at fruit stalls and markets.
- One kilogram of rambutan generally contains 15-20 fruits, depending on size.
- Some vendors also sell pre-packed bags of 1 kg or half a kilogram.
How to Choose and Store Rambutan
How to Pick the Best Rambutan:
✔ Bright red or yellow skin – Indicates ripeness.
✔ Firm, fresh-looking spines – Avoid rambutans with dry, blackened hairs.
✔ Slightly soft when squeezed – Overly hard fruit may not be ripe yet.
Storage Tips:
📦 Room Temperature: Keeps for 2–3 days if fresh.
❄️ Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to a week.
🧊 Freezing: Remove the skin and freeze for use in smoothies.
Why You Should Try Rambutan in Thailand
✔ Exotic & Unique – A must-try tropical fruit that’s fun to eat!
✔ Refreshing & Hydrating – Perfect for cooling off in Thailand’s heat.
✔ Nutrient-Packed – A delicious way to boost your health.
✔ Widely Available – Easy to find in markets, supermarkets, and street vendors.
If you’re visiting Thailand, don’t miss the chance to try fresh, juicy rambutans. Whether you enjoy them straight from the market or blended into a tropical smoothie, this delicious fruit is a true taste of Thailand!