Pomelo or Pummelo

Also known as shaddocks, pomelos (Citrus maxima) are botanical ancestors of grapefruit. Their origin is South or Southeast Asia, but their distribution is worldwide. In appearance, they look like enormous grapefruit, but their rind has a characteristic and distinct smell. Inside, they’re pithy, and either pink or white. The fruit itself is eaten for its flesh rather than its juice. For juice, go to grapefruit; for saladworthy sections of citrus with little capsules bursting with flavor, stick with pomelos and buy specimens that seem heavy for their size. Look for them at Chinese and Southeast Asian markets, farmers’ markets, and specialty produce stores. The season begins in early winter and goes on for three months or so. The peel can be candied or turned into a delicious chutney.