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Grapefruit
The grapefruit we are familiar with today was developed in the West Indies in the early 1700's and first
introduced to the United States in the 1820's. Grapefruit got its name from the way it grew in
"grape-like" clusters on the tree. Originally it wasn't very desirable with its thick skin, lots of
seeds, little juice, and a very sour taste. Growers dramatically improved the flavor and texture so
that now you have a fruit that is seedless, with a taste that is both tangy and sweet.
The United States is the major producer of grapefruit in the world, and is also the biggest grapefruit
consumer. Florida grows about 80 percent of the U.S. grapefruit crop, and half the world's production in
essentially two areas of the state, central Florida and the Indian River. Texas, California, and
Arizona, as well as Florida, grow a number of newer red and pink varieties.
Selection & Storage
Choose grapefruit with bright smooth thin unblemished skin. The grapefruit should be very heavy for its
size, as it will be the juiciest, and it should be springy to the touch, not soft, or wilted. Defects on
the surface of the fruit such as scars, scratches and discoloration don't affect the sweet juicy fruit
taste.
Because grapefruit is ripe when picked it will not ripen further once off the tree. Grapefruit will last
for several days if stored at room temperature. Otherwise refrigerate in a plastic bag or in the high
humidity crisper section of the refrigerator where it will keep for several weeks.
Preparation
There are many ways to eat a grapefruit. The easiest way to enjoy a grapefruit is to slice it in half
and eat it by scooping out sections with a teaspoon. You can also slice it into wedges for a snack. Try
pulling off the skin and separating the fruit into sections. Fresh grapefruit juice is easy to make for
cocktails with rum, gin, and vodka.
Tony's Tip
Juice a grapefruit just as you would an orange. Use a juicer and have the fruit at room
temperature. Roll it around between your palm and the counter a few seconds first to extract the maximum amount of
juice.
Tony's Favorite Recipe
Sauteed Sole with Grapefruit
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Varieties
Varieties of grapefruit are categorized by flesh color, white, pink, to red, and whether they are seeded
or seedless.
Marsh Seedless is the most popular white grapefruit.
Pink Seedless is the most popular pink grapefruit.
Ruby Red, Henderson, Ray, and Rio Star are Texas red grapefruit varieties.
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