Grapefruits are an oversized fruit with pink or yellow-white flesh that is rich in vitamin C. They have a tart, sweet and bitter flavor that isn’t as overpowering as it may seem at first glance.
Learn how to cut grapefruit the right way and you’ll be peeling, pithing and slicing like a pro! This delectable fruit can be incorporated into a variety of salads, salsas and baked goods.
Peeling
Grapefruit is an excellent source of vitamin C and limonene, which helps prevent heart disease. It’s also high in pectin, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of diarrhea.
Its bitterness is balanced by its sweetness and makes it a versatile food for your lunch, fruit tray or breakfast in bed. For added health benefits, add grated grapefruit peel to salads and savory dishes.
To make candied grapefruit peel, blanch the strips in boiling water twice, drain and simmer them in sugar until the liquid is almost evaporated. According to Healthy Eating, a serving of this sweet treat contains zero fat, no cholesterol and only 25 calories.
Aside from adding grapefruit zest to cocktails, this is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to enjoy the citrus fruit’s health benefits. It’s also shelf-stable, so it can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
Slicing
Grapefruits are a great way to add a pop of color and nutrients to your breakfast, lunch, or snack. They are also a delicious addition to salads and desserts.
The key to slicing a grapefruit is to cut it into segments that are separated by their membranes. This is actually quite easy to do with a sharp knife and will result in sliced grapefruit that look pretty and taste delicious.
Stand up the grapefruit on one end, such that it’s flat against the cutting board. This will keep the fruit from rolling or wobbling while you cut, which can cause you to accidentally slice yourself.
Use a chef’s knife to cut through the peel and pith. This will leave you with the red fruit inside, but it’ll also remove the white rind and pith that can get stuck in your teeth.
You can then cut your grapefruit in half and scoop out the segments as you eat them or use them in a recipe. Either way, it’s a great way to get in your daily intake of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
Preparing segments
Grapefruit is a popular citrus fruit and can be eaten as is, or in salads or other recipes. Its juiciness makes it a great choice for breakfast or as a snack.
When cutting grapefruit, you will need to separate segments from the bitter membrane. This can be done by removing the peel from each segment.
To do this, you will need a chef’s knife or a serrated knife. You will want to cut the grapefruit from North to South, following its curve.
The goal is to remove as much of the peel and pith from the grapefruit as possible while preserving its edible flesh.
The process of separating grapefruit segments from their tough membrane is called sectioning, and it can be very labor-intensive. It tends to make the fruit sections non-uniform and increases production costs.
Serving
Grapefruit is a versatile fruit that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It can be made into marmalades, jams, and preserves and is great for pairing with other citrus fruits, such as lemons or oranges.
Grapefruit can also be used to make a refreshing grapefruit juice or smoothie. It is a healthy addition to any diet, and it can be eaten on its own as a snack or served with a meal.
Aside from its unique flavour, grapefruit is an excellent source of vitamins A, B6, C and K. It also contains a large amount of fiber and potassium.
Serve grapefruit with a variety of other fresh fruit for a deliciously healthy breakfast or snack. Try adding a little sugar or maple syrup to help balance the tartness of the grapefruit.
Another option is to grill grapefruit, which caramelizes the natural sugars in the fruit and enhances its taste. The flavor of grilled grapefruit pairs well with salads, so it is a great way to add a burst of color and acidity to a summery vegetable side dish.