The mangosteen
fruit is round with a crown and stem attached. It ranges from 4cm to 8cm
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 anddivided into
5 - 7 segments. The fruit is harvested ripe, ready to eat. Mangosteens are
best eaten fresh just as they are, or added to fruit salads.

The simplest method of 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 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 deserts. Do not cut through the segments when preparing
in this way. Mangosteens are an exotic addition to champagne or sparkling
wine.
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