The largest of the citrus fruit family and the Asian equivalent of the grapefruit, Pomelo is native to southeast Asia.  It made its appearance in Europe around the 14th Century courtesy of seafaring traders.  It was taken to the West Indies sometime around the 17th century by a sea captain called Shaddock, in some parts of the world it is actually known as shaddock.

Pomelos can weigh up to two pounds and differ from grapefruit in than their flesh contains less juice, and is much sweeter.  Because of the cool sweet flavor it is a popular breakfast fruit in Asia and is also served with spicy dishes as a cooler.

Selecting and handling  choose one that has smooth skin and is firm but gives slightly to the touch.  To eat at its best the fruit should be kept for two weeks after removal from the tree.  The fresh fruit keeps up to a month after removal from the tree at room temperature.  When peeled it should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 3 days.

Season  August to November