What Is A Pomelo And How To Cut One?

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.

Have you had the opportunity to try a pomelo? This large citrus fruit really is a delicious treat. In this post we will answer what is a pomelo along with how to cut and eat one.

If you enjoy eating citrus fruits I encourage you to try a pomelo fruit. They are delicious, easy to peel, and not super juicy making them less messy than many fruits.

What is a pomelo?

A pomelo (Citrus maxima) is a very large, Asian citrus fruit that has similar qualities to a grapefruit. They can also be called pummelos, pompelomes, jabong, Chinese grapefruit, or shaddock.

The name "shaddock" came from the Caribbean after English sea captain Shaddock of the East India Company ship introduced pomelos to the west.

Pomelos are considered the largest member of the citrus family, some growing to the size of a cantaloupe and watermelon. Depending on the variety, they can weigh 2-4 pounds.

This giant fruit is also one of the oldest citrus fruits, originating in Southeast Asia. They are also grown in Japan, Thailand, India, China, Tahiti, and now in some states in the United States.

They can be round or oval shaped and the rind is pale green or yellow. They are surprisingly easy to cut and eat.

These delicious fruits also have many health benefits, for example they are an excellent source of Vitamin C and a good source of fiber.

What does a pomelo taste like?

A pomelo has a similar taste to a grapefruit but without the sour flavor. They are a little sweeter than a grapefruit and a typically less juicy. They also have a very thick rind that isn't meant to be eaten.

How to choose a pomelo

November through March is the best time to find a pomelo. They are usually sold in most grocery stores and some Latin and Asian markets.

When choosing a pomelo, look for a rind that is yellow to soft green in color. You will also want to make sure they are a little firm to the touch with no soft spots.

How to cut a pomelo

Check out the video after the instructions to see how easy it is to cut a pomelo.

Step one: Using a sharp knife, cut off the top and bottom of the fruit.

Step two: Cut slices into the fruit through the pomelo peel about one inch all the way around. About 6-8 slices.

Step three: Carefully peel off the pomelo rind. Cut off the thick layer of pith around the fruit.

Step four: Pull apart the fruit to eat.

How to eat a pomelo fruit?

Pomelos can be eaten fresh but also can be used in recipes like other familiar citrus fruits. They are great substitutes for recipes that call for grapefruits or oranges.

Try using this tasty fruit as a grapefruit substitute in recipes like fruit salad, fruit salsa, and ceviche.

Pomelo juice is also wonderful to use in drinks and marinades.

How to store

Store pomelos in the refrigerator for up to a week. Once they have been cut, make sure to put the in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Difference between grapefruit and pomelo?

While grapefruits and pomelos are similar in many ways they do have some differences.

Shape: Grapefruits are rounder in shape while pomelos have a teardrop shape.

Color: Grapefruit rind is typically orange in color and the flesh is red. Pomelos have a green-yellow rind and a flesh is a pale orange-green color.

Taste: These fruits are actually very similar in taste. Grapefruits have a more tart and sour taste while pomelos are sweeter and more mild.

Have any other questions about pomelos? Have you tried one? Let us know in the comments below.