Mangosteen: The exotic fruit taking British stores by storm

The world of exotic fruits certainly extends well beyond bananas, pineapples, and lychees. When the season for British seasonal fruits comes to a close, or if you seek a change from the usual apples and pears, consider trying a mangosteen. Though it may appear unremarkable at first glance, it's worth trying.

The name "mangosteen" might sound familiar, but apart from the name, it has little in common with a traditional mango. The small fruits, encased in rather hard, dark skin, hide delicious and nutritious white flesh within. In the past, locating them in shops was nearly a miracle, but many supermarkets increasingly include them in their offerings. If you spot them while shopping, don't hesitate to add them to your basket.

Mangosteen, also known as garcinia, originates from Southeast Asia. It is a low-growing tree with dark, almost black bark, dark green leaves, and distinctive green-pink flowers with thick petals. It is long-lived, but it grows very slowly, with the first fruits being harvested only after around 8 years. Even if you're tempted to invest long-term in your garden, it’s best not to prepare a spot. Mangosteen thrives in warm, tropical climates, making it nearly impossible to grow in British conditions.

Highly valued throughout Asia, mangosteen first appears as light green balls. Over the course of 5-6 months, they ripen and take on a characteristic dark purple colour. When you find them in the shop, put them straight into your basket.

According to legend, Buddha himself appreciated the beneficial properties of mangosteen, having tasted these exceptional fruits during his wanderings through the jungle. Since then, mangosteen has been regarded as a gift from the heavens and one of Asia's most delicious tropical fruits.

The chitin and dietary fibre found in mangosteen are excellent for the intestines and are natural weight-loss aids. They enhance the digestive system's function and help maintain proper blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Mangosteen is also a source of B vitamins (mainly B1 and B2), which are essential for the proper functioning of the immune, nervous, and muscular systems. Additionally, the beta-carotene in these fruits gives you a healthy skin colour and protects cells from the harmful effects of free radicals.

The taste of mangosteen is hard to compare to other fruits. It is often described as a blend of sweet mango, sour orange, and refreshing pineapple. The flesh is delicate, juicy, and has a slightly tart aftertaste.

To access the flesh, cut the fruit in half. The flesh can be eaten directly with a spoon, being mindful of the large, flat seeds. Mangosteen can also be added to cocktails, smoothies, desserts, or fruit salads.