Once the darling of the 70's breakfast scene, grapefruit has since slipped in appreciation and it is time it made a comeback. An accidental cross between sweet orange and pomelo (that LARGE Asian citrus fruit with thick skin) grapefruit has a bittersweet flavour along with lots of great healthy benefits. It's that bittersweet edge that is hard for some to love...but there are little tricks that can turn it into the star of your meal.
Let's find out from our local naturopath, Charmaine aka ecomumma why we should be incorporating grapefruit into our diets...
"Grapefruit is a wonderful citrus fruit to add in to our daily diet. Naturally high in Vitamin C, it helps our immune system thrive. Also high in antioxidants, Grapefruit will protect your cells from damage that may be caused by pollution, poor health and radiation. In times of high stress, Grapefruit will help your body manage stress hormones. I think we could all benefit from a little less stress in our bodies at the moment!"
Often the reason people do not enjoy eating bitter foods is lack of knowledge in how to prepare them properly. Having a good fat like avocado next to the grapefruit helps to coat the tastebuds and reduce the bitterness. Add a bit of sweet like honey to balance out the bitter. For other bitter foods like greens, a good salting helps to draw out the bitterness and make them more palatable. Whichever way you go, your body and your health will love you for incorporating bitters into your diet.
Grapefruit, avocado and cucumber salad with onion blossom
If you purchase a Bargain Box this you'll have the opportunity to work out how you prefer your grapefruit. Today, the farmer and I are enjoying this salad with our lunch... grapefruit, avocado and cucumber, all lazily chopped as you can see and marinated in a honey and lemon juice dressing. The onion blossom in the background will also be broken up and sprinkled over the top of the salad for a savoury bite.
To use the whole fruit, you can add the rind to household vinegar and allow to steep for a week. Strain into a clean bottle. The flavoured vinegar can be used for salad dressings, and also cleaning your house :)