In a recent ranking by international food and lifestyle website TasteAtlas, the mangosteen has been crowned the best fruit in Southeast Asia, securing the top position in their list of ‘Top 26 Southeast Asian Fruits.’
TasteAtlas described the mangosteen, also known as the purple mangosteen, as a tropical fruit with a “soft, juicy, and delicate” texture. Praised for its versatility, the fruit is enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes including desserts, salads, custards, smoothies, teas, and ice creams. The mangosteen is believed to originate from the Sunda Islands, encompassing parts of Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, and East Timor.
The rambutan claimed the second spot, noted for its “round shape with leathery skin covered in soft hairlike spines.” Hailing from the rainforests of western Malaysia and Singapore, it has a sweet to subacid pulp and a seed used in soap production or roasted as a snack in the Philippines.
Despite its acclaim as the “King of Fruits,” the durian was ranked seventh. TasteAtlas described it as having a “large spiky outer shell” with “creamy, custard-like flesh” known for its strong odor. Durian is used in various dishes including cakes, ice cream, and savory fritters.
The Musang King, known for its rich, custard-like flesh and complex flavor, was notably ranked at 18th. The fruit is recognized for its bright yellow flesh and blend of sweetness with a hint of bitterness.
Other local fruits featured in the list include:
Calamansi – 3rd place
Pulasan – 4th place
Makrut lime – 6th place
Water apple (jambu air) – 9th place
Pisang mas – 16th place