When I was little, I remember these humgunous grapefruit-looking things just sitting around the house at this time of year. I’m not fond of grapefruits. Their sour taste lands them one step below the much dreaded bell pepper which I dislike even more.
I don’t recall how or why, but I must have given pomelos a try at some point, because I sure like them now. They don’t have the bitterness of a grapefruit, they’re way sweeter. I can totally eat them – it’s like a sweet, very mild version of grapefruit.
Largest of the citrus fruits, pomelos are about the size of a small watermelon. Called boo look in Cantonese, they’re also known as Chinese grapefruit and are popular for Chinese New Year as it symbolizes abundance.
In season from mid-January to mid-February, I’ve spotted pomelos at farmer markets, Costco, Whole Foods and Asian supermarkets, about two fifty to three bucks for one. The color is a light green and turns yellow as it ripens. You know it’s ready to eat when you can smell its floral scent from a mile away.
To eat, cut off a bit of the top and then make vertical cuts going into the extra thick skin with a sharp knife (be careful not to actually cut into the flesh). I find it easier turning the pomelo upside-down and going from the bottom to the top. Pull the sliced peel away from the flesh.
Pull the fruit in half to make it easier to handle. The membrane and pith is very thick and very bitter. Do not eat any of that, just pull it all off to reveal the coral pink fruit segment. I like to eat mine cold so after peeling off the outer skin, I stick it in the fridge to chill for a refreshing, sweet treat. Just in time for the Lunar New Year, which is tomorrow, February 3rd.
Best wishes for health, wealth and happiness in the Year of the Rabbit.
Happy Chinese New Year!
Related Links
Chinese New Year Feast
Buddhists Delight
I want to eat a pomelo right now! They look super tasty and I even love the name, pomelo. I have a bit of a grapefruit addiction so a sweeter and larger version sounds simply delicious!
I have enjoyed eating this fruit for years and it’s nice to see it get some press!
Had to laugh at how you described green peppers. My feelings about them are on par with yours.
BTW, the Cotcto Pomelos are not always great. WF tend to be better, and when Vons / Safeway have them, they tend to be good as well.
I’ve often been tempted by these huge citrus fruits, but still have never tried them. Thanks for the inspiration, they sound delicious! I must finally give them a go very soon.
Aren’t they wonderful?! Last year at this time I went a bit overboard on the Oroblanco (a cross between the Pomelo and a white grapefruit), but I still think the Pomelo tastes better. I’m with you on the green pepper thing!
Love pomelos! Happy Lunar New Year!
I love pomelos but I hate their thick skin. It’s like you pay for 500 grams of pomelo and get 150 grams of carbage.
I’m always surprised by how big pomelos are — they make the other citrus look like mini-fruit. I haven’t had any this year, but now that you’ve reminded me about their short season, I’d better get a couple before it’s too late! Great photos.
Oh, I love grapefruit but have never tried these. Gorgeous pictures; I will try them soon :-)