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Mangosteen
Mangosteen is native to South East Asia and is known as the Queen of Tropical Fruits. Its tree produces fruit of the most delectable flavours. The fruit was first introduced into Australia in the 1940s but only became commercially available in the 1970s. Despite its name, mangosteen is not related to the mango. Characteristics The mangosteen fruit is round with a crown and stem attached. It ranges from 4 cm to 8 cm in diameter and weighs between 50 grams and 150 grams. The thick, leathery skin is deep purple when ripe and the flesh is pearly white and divided into five to seven segments. The fruit is harvested ripe, ready to eat. Taste Mangosteen is a fruit that melts in the mouth, with a taste that is subtle, delicate and sweet, yet acidic. Buying and Storing Choose fruits that have no skin imperfections or major discolouration. A green stem indicates that the fruit is fresh. The skin should yield when pressed gently. Mangosteen will keep for a few days without refrigeration, but storage at 10°C is ideal and extends shelf life to about 20 days. Refrigeration can cause damage to the fruit, so it is advisable to wrap the fruit in newspaper and store it in the upper part of the refrigerator. Once harvested, mangosteens do not ripen further. Preparing and Serving Mangosteens are best eaten fresh just as they are, or added to fruit salads. The simplest method of opening the fruit is to place the mangosteen in the palm of the hand with the fruit’s stem on top. Remove the stem and exert gentle pressure on the upper half of the fruit until the shell opens. Another option is to cut only through the circumference of the shell, all the way around, and then lift off the top of the fruit and spoon out the flesh. This makes a very attractive presentation and is ideal for desserts. Do not cut through the segments when preparing in this way. Mangosteens are an exotic addition to champagne or sparkling wine. Availability February to April. Varieties There is minimal genetic diversity, so seedlings are cultivated. Acknowledgement The information about avocados is mainly sourced from the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Queensland publication Tropical Tastes - Fruits, Foods and Flavours of North Queensland and is reproduced with due acknowledgement and authority.
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