10 Delicious Mangosteen Recipes

All About Mangosteens

Considered the “Queen of Fruits”, the mangosteen is a delightful tropical fruit that is as scrumptious as it is beneficial. They come from an evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia and are admired for their sweet and somewhat tangy taste as well as their vibrant purple outer shell which wonderfully contrasts with the white fruit pulp inside.

What is a Mangosteen?

Originally, the Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) used to be a small-sized tropical tree that came from Indonesia. Grown mostly in Southeast Asia, South America and India, this fruit has been dubbed as the ‘queen’ of tropical fruits because of its unparalleled taste and nutritive benefits. The purple fruit with a white, juicy centre has a distinctly sweet and sour flavour which has been equated to that of strawberries, grapes, and peach, all in one neat package!

Nutritional Profile

The mangosteen is packed full of nutrients. A one-cup serving of canned, syrup-packed, drained mangosteen offers 143 calories and provides 35.7g of carbohydrates. Furthermore, it serves as an excellent source of vitamin C and provides modest amounts of B vitamins such as thiamine, niacin, and folate. It also contains a considerable amount of essential nutrients including dietary fibre and a diverse range of antioxidants.

The Health Benefits of the Mangosteen

The nutrient-rich mangosteen has various health benefits. For instance, its vitamin C content boosts the immune system and combats inflammation. The antioxidants present help to neutralize damaging free radicals, thus reducing the risks associated with chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Research has also suggested that certain antioxidant compounds in mangosteen can have anti-inflammatory effects.

Thanks to the presence of dietary fibre, mangosteen aids in digestion, heart health, and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. It has also been utilized in traditional medicine for treating skin infections, wounds, and diarrhoea. Furthermore, studies have shown potential benefits of mangosteen extract in treating acne and other skin conditions.

In conclusion, mangosteen’s delightful taste paired with its numerous health benefits make it a virtually irresistible delight. However, it’s essential to integrate it as part of a balanced diet and not as a standalone solution for health issues.