Spicy Mangosteen Salsa
This vibrant Spicy Mangosteen Salsa offers a unique blend of sweet tropical mangosteen, zesty lime, and a kick of chili, creating a refreshing and low-calorie condiment perfect for enhancing grilled dishes.
For 4 servings
**Prepare Mangosteen:** Gently score the circumference of each mangosteen fruit with a knife, being careful not to cut too deep into the flesh. Twist the two halves apart to reveal the white, juicy segments. Carefully remove all segments and finely dice them, discarding any large seeds. Place the diced mangosteen in a medium mixing bowl.
**Dice Aromatics:** Finely dice the red onion and add it to the bowl with the mangosteen. Finely chop the fresh cilantro and the serrano chili (remove seeds and white membrane for a milder salsa, or leave some for more heat) and add them to the bowl.
**Combine Ingredients:** Add the fresh lime juice and sea salt to the bowl with the mangosteen, onion, cilantro, and chili. If using, add the black pepper.
**Gentle Mix:** Using a spoon or spatula, gently fold all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to mash the delicate mangosteen segments.
**Taste and Adjust:** Taste the salsa and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more lime juice for tang, more salt, or an extra pinch of chili for more heat.
**Chill (Optional):** For best flavor, cover the salsa and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
**Serve:** Serve chilled as a vibrant topping or side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Mangosteen Selection:** Choose mangosteens that feel heavy for their size and have a slightly soft, yielding rind when gently squeezed. Avoid fruits with hard, rock-like rinds or those that feel hollow.
- 2**Adjusting Heat:** For a milder salsa, remove all seeds and white pith from the serrano chili. For extra heat, use two chilies or include some of the seeds.
- 3**Serving Suggestions:** This salsa is exceptional with grilled white fish (like cod or snapper), shrimp, chicken, or pork tenderloin. It also pairs well with jicama sticks or plantain chips.
- 4**Storage:** Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors are best when fresh.
Adapt it for your goals.
Ingredient Swap
Add 1/4 cup finely diced mango or pineapple for an even more complex tropical sweetness and texture.
Flavor EnhancementFlavor Enhancement
Incorporate 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint or basil for an aromatic, cooling counterpoint to the spice.
Spice VariationSpice Variation
For a smoky undertone, use a finely minced chipotle in adobo sauce (about 1/2 teaspoon) instead of or in addition to the fresh chili.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Mangosteen is packed with xanthones, powerful antioxidants that help combat free radicals and support overall cellular health.
Immune Boosting
High in Vitamin C from both mangosteen and lime, this salsa contributes to a strong immune system and healthy skin.
Aids Digestion
The fiber content in mangosteen and other fresh ingredients supports healthy digestion and can help maintain gut regularity.
Frequently asked questions
Look for mangosteens with a deep purple, shiny rind that yields slightly to gentle pressure. Avoid fruits that are hard, cracked, or have a dried-out stem.
