Although its size may surprise you, pomelo prices are often similar to the more popular citrus fruits. Despite this, many of us still treat it as a curiosity rather than an everyday fruit. It’s high time to change that.
Pomelo (citrus maxima), sometimes called shadok, comes from southeast Asia. It is the largest representative of the citrus family. Its weight can reach up to 2 kilograms and the diameter of the fruit is about 30 centimeters. This is the reason for the long ripening period of the fruit, which lasts as long as 8 months. The thick peel can range in color from light green, through yellow, to a pinkish shade, and the flesh comes in various colors: white, yellow and pink.
In terms of taste, pomelo resembles grapefruit, but is sweeter and less bitter. Therefore, it is a proposition for people who do not like the acidity of other citrus fruits. Its aroma and balanced sweetness mean that it can be eaten alone or combined with other fruits. The pulp of shadok is slightly drier than that of tangerines or oranges. Some will consider this a disadvantage, others an advantage, because it eliminates the problem of dripping juice.
In Poland, fresh pomelos can be found mainly in autumn and winter in large supermarkets. Small grocery stores also offer them more and more often. In Asia, shadok harvests take place on two dates: from August to October and from January to March. This is when the fruit is the cheapest in our country and costs PLN 6-9 per piece. Out of season, pomelo prices can reach PLN 15.
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This fruit is not only attractive in appearance. Pomelo is rich in vitamin C, fiber, potassium and antioxidants. These ingredients support our body on many levels. Shadok is low-calorie, 100 g of pulp provides about 38 kcal. This is good news for people watching their weight and diabetics. The high fiber content ensures a feeling of satiety for a long time, while providing few calories. Low glycemic index (GI 30) prevents glucose spikeshelping to stabilize blood sugar levels.
It may come as a surprise to some that sweet pomelo has more vitamin C than oranges or lemons. Thanks to this, in winter it is a great support for our immunity. The antioxidants it contains, such as naringenin and lycopene, support the heart and protect cells. Research also shows that regular consumption of this fruit helps reduce the level of bad cholesterol and triglycerides.
However, it is worth remembering that, like grapefruit, pomelo may interact with some medications (e.g. statins or antihypertensive drugs). This is important because diabetes and hypertension often go hand in hand. Diabetics who consume this fruit to stabilize their blood sugar levels often harm themselves if they also take antihypertensive medications. Therefore, in such cases, it is best to consult a doctor who will advise you on how to include citrus fruits in your diet.
The easiest way to taste a pomelo is to eat the fruit raw. It is worth peeling them not only from the skin, but also from the membranes between the segments, which can be bitter. In the case of this fruit, it is not difficult, the membranes practically come off on their own. Juicy pieces of pulp are great as a winter snack or a healthy addition to breakfast.
Pomelo can be used in many ways in the kitchen: goes perfectly with fruit and vegetable salads, emphasizing the flavor of green leaves, nuts and light dressings. The juice is perfect as an ingredient in a marinade for meat, which will make it more tender. Shadok pulp in a smoothie will enrich the drink with a fresh, citrus aroma. It is also not worth throwing away the peel, which contains much more potassium than the juice. After drying or candiing, it will be an interesting addition to desserts and porridges.
Source: Terazgotuje.pl
