The Rarity of Mayongchid
If you are planning a trip to Bangkok between March and April, you are in for a special treat. During these two months, you can find a unique seasonal fruit called Mayongchid. It is a true “rare item”—once the season passes, it disappears from the markets and menus entirely. If you happen to be in the city during this window, I highly recommend making it a priority to try it.
What is Mayongchid?
Visually, Mayongchid looks somewhat like a loquat or an apricot, though it is larger than an apricot and smaller than a mango. When it comes to flavor, it sits right between a mango and an apricot, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess. When the fruit is perfectly ripe, the sweet notes really shine through.
Seasonal Desserts and Dining
Because Mayongchid is only available for such a short time, many cafes and restaurants in Bangkok feature it as a limited-time ingredient. You will find it incorporated into everything from drinks and cakes to savory dishes and ice cream.
During my visit, I made sure to try a few different preparations:
- After You: I visited for their signature Mayongchid Bingsu, which is a perfect way to cool down.
- Baan Somtum: I tried their unique Mayongchid Somtum and their Mayongchid ice cream, both of which were excellent ways to experience the fruit’s versatility.
How to Buy and Eat Fresh Mayongchid
If you want to enjoy the fruit on its own, you have a couple of options depending on where you shop:
- Or Tor Kor Market: This is a great spot if you want convenience; they sell pre-peeled Mayongchid, making it very easy to snack on.
- Tops Market: You can find whole, unpeeled fruit here. If you buy them this way, you can simply use a spoon to scoop out the flesh or use a knife to peel them yourself.
Travel Tips for March and April
Since this fruit is only available through the end of April, my best advice is simple: if you see it, buy it. Whether you find it in a dessert at a cafe or fresh at a market, it is a quintessential Bangkok experience that you simply cannot replicate at any other time of the year.
