How to make this type of Transparency/Translucency

[Cactus Cowboy]

Using Ai cs6, Win 7. How would you approach getting this type of transparent/translucency effect shown here in this redcurrant vector. I'm sure it's a blend, but how do make the inner seeds look like they're floating in gelly or liquid so convincing. Thank for any help.

[Doug A Roberts · Accepted solution]

you said it yourself, just blends -- between a circle and a squished jelly bean version of the circle. there's no magic and no actual translucency. just solid colour areas. here's a version and its outlines: