At the stem end of the mangosteen are leaf-like calyxes. If the mangosteen is exceptionally fresh the calyxes may still be a rosy-green. On the bottom of the fruit is a tiny flower-like pattern ...

Until 2007, the US banned imports of mangosteens from the largest producers — countries like Thailand and Indonesia. Even though the commercial supply of mangosteen has spiked since then ...

and lift it off like a lid. This will reveal the segments of pearly flesh within, which can then be removed. Mangosteen has such a delicious floral taste that it is usually served very simply.