Mamón Chino – Rambutan

AuthorSteve PageCategoryBreakfast, Desserts, Fruits & Vegetables, Sides, Snacks

Would you eat that weird looking fruit? We would! Mamón Chinos are DELICIOUS!
Mamón Chinos are also known as Rambutan. These red hairy treats are the perfect snack for a day at the beach, or to throw in your backpack for a hike in the jungle.

The name mamón chino is directly translated as “Chinese sucker," which is a great description for this fruit that originates from Asia. The outer skin is tough, while the hairs help protect it. You can use a knife, or just your fingernail to penetrate the skin. Then, peel it back to expose the almost translucent white meat of the fruit.

The meat of the fruit is a very firm, gummy type jelly that is similar to a grape, but much more congealed. The taste is a bit like a cross between a grape and a pear, but not exactly.

The center holds a large pit, so don't just bite into it. Once you peel it, bite into the mamón chino meat and eat around the seed.

We love the crazy look of this delightful treat, but the taste is definitely the best part. They are also portable and pack easily in a bag for activities. They are affordable too, making them one of our favorite fruits.

Mamón Chino - Rambutan are plentiful during, their growing season, which is typically July through October. This may vary slightly depending on what region of Costa Rica you are in.

Rambutan fruit contains a variety of nutrients including vitamin C, potassium, iron, beta carotene or vitamin A, magnesium zinc, sodium, niacin, fiber, protein, and a little calcium. The fruit weight of the Mamon Chino is approximately 28g.

Health benefits of Mamón Chino - Rambutan include:
1. Disease Prevention (Cancer, Coronary Heart Disease, Diabetes) - Mamón Chino - Rambutan contains high amounts of antioxidants, so it is useful in the prevention of a variety of illnesses including: cancer, coronary heart disease, and diabetes.
2. Stabilizes Blood Sugar - Mamón Chino - Rambutan has a high in fiber content, so it helps stabilize blood sugar.
3. Promotes Digestive Health - Mamón Chino – Rambutan is loaded with fiber, so aids in the digestive process.
4. Supports Strong Bones - Mamón Chino - Rambutan contains a variety of vitamins including manganese, which helps support strong bones.
5. Helps Fight off Infections- Mamón Chino – Rambutan contains a number of antimicrobial properties, which help fight off infections and optimize health.

*Rachael Link, MS, RD

Mamón Chino – Rambutan