Q. I've seen a citrus fruit in my grocery store called Ugli fruit. What can you tell me about it?

A. Ugli fruit, also called uniq fruit, is a member of the citrus family that originated in Jamaica; it's a cross between a grapefruit and a tangelo (which is a hybrid of the tangerine and the pomelo). Ugli fruit is usually about the size of a large grapefruit, with a sweet flavor similar to a slightly tart tangerine. The fruit's thick skin is puckered and pointed at one end and easily peels away from the juicy segments inside. It can be used like other fresh citrus fruits in salads, desserts and snacks.

Ugli fruit is best from late fall to early spring. It will not continue to ripen after it's been picked. Also, the color of its skin--ranging from green to light orange--is not an indication of ripeness. Choose fruit that is heavy for its size. Even though the skin of Ugli fruit is thick and baggy, it should have some suppleness and give slightly to the touch. As the fruit ages, it loses moisture and becomes dryer and lighter; the skin will start to stiffen and eventually develop soft dimples and pits.

Store Ugli fruit at room temperature for 2 to 3 days to maxamize flavor and aroma. To hold the fruit longer, store it in the refrigerator in a high-humidity drawer or loosely wrapped in a plastic bag. For more information on this citrus fruit, visit www.Ugli.com.