What is Pomelo?
Pomelo, also known as ‘Chinese grapefruit’, is a large citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia. It looks similar to standard grapefruit on the outside – a thick peel, a yellowish rind – but pomelo is three to four times bigger. Inside the fruit, the flesh is much sweeter than grapefruit, with a milder flavor. Pomelo has been grown for centuries in China and surrounding countries, where the fruit is known as one of the “big four” citrus fruits. Today, pomelo can be found in many grocery stores and farmer’s markets, and is a popular ingredient for dishes ranging from salads to desserts. Highly nutritious and delicious, pomelo is a unique and healthy addition to any diet.
What does Pomelo taste like?
Pomelo is surprisingly sweet for a citrus fruit – its taste is a cross between a grapefruit and a mandarin orange. Unlike a grapefruit, pomelo has a mild flavor that makes it an ideal snack for all ages. Pomelo can be eaten as it is, or can be juiced, made into jams or compotes, and even blended into smoothies. Its mild sweetness makes pomelo a great partner for savory flavors such as chili, garlic, or ginger. Pomelo can also be cooked, adding an interesting flavor to a variety of dishes. All in all, pomelo’s unique flavor lends itself to many culinary applications, making it a delicious and versatile addition to your diet.
What dishes do you find Pomelo in?
Pomelo’s versatile flavor has resulted in a variety of unique dishes made with the fruit. In Thailand, pomelo salads such as Som Tam Thai are popular dishes. These tangy, crunchy salads usually include spices, peanuts, and other ingredient to contrast pomelo’s sweetness. Across the continent, Chinese cooking often involves Pomelo in their dishes seeking out its distinct citrus flavor. As the cousin to grapefruit, pomelo is perfect for adding a sweet-tart flavor to seafood dishes, and can be used to create high-profile desserts as well. From classic candied pomelo peels and simple pomelo yogurt desserts to spicy stir-fries, the possibilities are endless with pomelo.