Mangosteens, Rambutans and other deliciousness…

As a rule, when people age, they grow more cynical, have less energy and are generally more bored with life in general. It is my belief that if you have an enquiring mind, a child-like curiosity, regularly try new experiences and, ideally, believe in some level of magic, not only will you live longer, but life will be so much more pleasant. These qualities can be applied to any part of your life – or, even better, your entire life…

It’s almost the end of winter, and I believe we’re all in the mood for a little something different… Last Sunday I chose to pop into a new establishment I had heard rumours of – “Garden Fresh”. It was one of those blissful winter days, with warm sunshine and beautiful blue skies. As I walked into the establishment, there was definitely a feeling of “magic” in the air. One can always sense when people are passionate about their craft. When were you last ‘enchanted’ by what you found in a fruit and vegetable shop? Perhaps it’s time again!!

The flowers that greet you as you enter this emporium are gorgeous. Each is perfect. Many of them individually packaged to protect each bloom. The beautiful display is positively inspiring and feels a little like spring. My little weaver will concur with that opinion – he’s terribly busy building nests… 

As you move inside, you start getting to some of the more exotic produce – or simply that which is near-impossible to find. Let’s explore some of the offerings…

The Mangosteen. What an unassuming little fruit. But within this strange little ‘pod’ lies, dare I say, bliss!

How to describe the taste? “Mangosteen has a sweet and tangy flavour with hints of peach, cherry, and strawberry.” “The flesh within the fruit is luscious and creamy in texture. While it is primarily sweet, mangosteen also has a mild tartness, reminiscent of citrus fruits like oranges or tangerine.” “First of all, the flesh is extremely juicy. It is very easy to chew and tastes a little tart with an explosion of sweetness.” “Mangosteen’s appeal lies in its distinct flavour, which balances sweetness, acidity, and a floral undertone.” So many descriptions, yet none truly do it justice. I could also taste perfectly ripe mango and the equivalent of Woolworth’s “Clemengold” juice – an absolute favourite. Its flavour is honestly unique and quite unlike anything I have ever tasted… Yorrik, one of the owners of the store, had this to say: “If a tropical island had a flavour, it would be that of the mangosteen!” I think he’s on to something here… Why not pop in and decide for yourself?

Mangosteen, often called the “Queen of Fruits,” is considered a superfood due to its high antioxidant content and potential health benefits. So, load up if you can find them in quantities large enough to make a difference. If you see they’re available, make haste – they’re extremely popular…

Tamarillos are also known as tree tomatoes and are delicious. I have seen them around on occasion, but they are by no means a “common” product…  These egg-shaped, edible fruits have a tangy, sweet flavour, and each is a storehouse of nutrition, boasting a range of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These plants are native to the Andes region of South America, and the name “tamarillo” was introduced in New Zealand in the 1960s – to distinguish it from the common tomato and give it a more exotic appeal for export!

The Rambutan is native to Southeast Asia. Once again, different palettes have different descriptions. “Rambutan has a sweet, mildly tart flavour with a juicy, grape-like texture. It’s similar to litchi but with a slightly firmer bite.” “Their taste is similar to litchi – they have a sweet, fruity flavour with a hint of acidity reminiscent of strawberries and grapes. Additionally, there is a floral, tropical taste to them.” Others say they’re creamier and taste more ‘aromatic’ than a litchi. I’m a big fan of popping one in your mouth to see what your version of the truth would be… 

Rustling up a salad – choose some colour with these nutritious heirloom tomatoes! Adding some carbs? Why not make it interesting?

Fancy some root veges – why not choose something different? Purple yams, golden beetroots, celeriac or good old amadumbe (African potato)… Or grab some special ‘shrooms – like Shiitake (L) or King Oysters (R)!

Grab a bespoke fruit salad and a cuppa at their little café and enjoy the view as you gaze over the nursery and inhale the aroma of spring. Or share the joy with someone else who wasn’t able to join you…

This venue is about fresh, and unique, and unusual, and crunch, and organic and, well, just simply marvellous. If they haven’t got what your heart desires, drop them a WhatsApp and they will endeavour to source it. Ditto if you’re not from Joburg but require a little something something….

These guys have a “test’ they do on their social media, to see whether or not their products pass the crunch test. Personally, I think the verdict goes further than simply the crunch! Joburg – this is indeed “proper”!!

Before we sign off on all things healthy, I thought I would also share another delicious discovery with you. 

Who has time to cook? Which is a strange comment on a recipe book review, right? But this book is all about fresh ingredients, quick and easy cooking and, even more important to today’s busy humans – many of these dishes can be successfully frozen too. I now find myself cooking once a week, to have fabulous, super-healthy ‘microwave’ meals, supplemented by the fresh bits and bobs when I have the time…

Seriously though, Nicci Robertson is significant in that her recipe books are based on the science of nutrition. She is an author, a wellness strategist and the founder of Reinvent Health. With almost two decades of experience in the wellness and nutrition industry, she has dedicated her career to helping individuals, teams and organisations redefine what health truly means. She hosts podcasts, is a speaker and an educator, a corporate wellness consultant and executive coach, and has also spent 13 years as a health expert on various radio platforms including 702/Cape Talk. She also spent 10 years as the resident nutrition expert on DSTV’s Real Health. 

So, using her book, what you are eating will affect your health positively. Speaking from experience, these recipes are truly delicious, whilst being super-healthy as well. What more could one ask for? There’s a link in the info box of some recipes to try, and well as where to get this book… Time to bring a little magic into your kitchen as well!!

Jacqui Ikin & The Cross Country Team

INFO BOX:

Garden Fresh
167 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown Northhttps://gardenfreshsa.co.zainfo@gardenfreshsa.co.za+27 79 279 5970 (WhatsApp Only) /https://www.facebook.com/people/Garden-Fresh-SA/61559411141734/

Thrive (Nicci Robertson)
Most Cost-Effective option for “Thrive”:https://www.takealot.com/live-well-and-thrive/PLID91670275?gad_campaignid=19740765778&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw-svEBhB6EiwAEzSdrpPh2w47rMYaI2vNuaHQLcfZLjABdCehHm41KxoahK31dDyhyXwhPxoCSnsQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.dshttps://www.reinventhealth.co.za/wellness@reinventhealth.co.za+27 010 597 0850WhatsApp: +27 (83) 265-5862Free Recipes: Thrive by Nicci Robertson:https://www.penguinrandomhouse.co.za/penguinbooksblog/recipes-thrive-nicci-robertson

Mangosteen, how to pick, peel and eat! 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8TuPm7F7AE&t=120s