Have you ever come across a peculiar fruit that seems to be a curious blend of a grapefruit and an orange? If you have spotted a fruit wrapped in a coarse, slightly loose-fitting skin, ranging from greenish-yellow to orange, and approximately the size of a grapefruit, chances are you have encountered the enigmatic Ugli fruit. However, appearances can be misleading. Beneath its unattractive peel, the Ugli fruit surprises with its near lack of seeds. Inside, you will find pulp that ranges from pinkish-orange to sunshiny yellow-orange, exuding a tender juiciness that is both sweet and delightfully tangy. Boasting an abundance of nutrients and an exquisite taste, Ugli fruit is an ideal choice to enjoy on its own or incorporate into various recipes, solidifying its position as one of the top citrus fruits to include in your diet.
The History of Ugli Fruit
The fascinating origins of ugli fruit can be traced back to a remarkable discovery made by Mr. F. G. Sharp, an estate owner, in 1917. While exploring Trout Hall, a location near Brown’s Town in Jamaica, Mr. Sharp stumbled upon a wild tree that bore a fruit with a distinctive taste reminiscent of both grapefruit and tangerine. Intrigued by this unique flavor, Mr. Sharp and his family embarked on a mission to cultivate and commercialize the fruit.
Initially known as the Exotic Tangelo from Jamaica, this newfound fruit quickly gained popularity in European and American markets. Its irresistible combination of sweetness and bitterness captivated consumers, making it an instant sensation.
Why is it called Ugli?
The name Ugli originated in 1934 when an importer requested “more of that ugly fruit” referring to the Exotic Tangelo. This fruit has a distinctive appearance with a rough, wrinkly, greenish-yellow peel that loosely covers the orange pulpy citrus flesh. The name Ugli quickly gained popularity due to its descriptive nature. It was officially changed to Ugli and registered as a trademark. Interestingly, the pronunciation of Ugli differs across regions. Americans and Europeans pronounce it as “ugly,” while in Jamaica, it is pronounced as “hugly.”