How to pick the sweetest oranges this winter season
Time for citrus! There's nothing better on cold winter days than a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or aromatic zest added to tea. But how do you choose the sweetest and juiciest fruits from the many store varieties?
12:01 PM EST, November 5, 2024
Oranges are fruits we particularly like to choose in the fall and winter. During this period, citrus fruits reach their peak flavor—full of juice and sweet, and their flesh is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. However, when standing before a crate full of oranges, how do you pick the sweetest ones? A few tips can help you purchase the perfect oranges, and the key is observing certain features. With these tips, you are sure to leave the store with fruits that will meet your expectations.
"Navel" - the key to a sweet interior
It turns out that there is a simple way to distinguish an ordinary orange from the true queen of sweetness. Are you looking for a fruit with a characteristic indentation on one side, resembling a navel? This small detail reveals that you are dealing with a Navel variety, famous for its exceptional taste.
This indentation is a remnant of a second, undeveloped orange. Thanks to this natural phenomenon, Navel fruits are extremely sweet and practically seedless. This is a true treasure for everyone who values convenience and does not want to waste time removing seeds.
How else to recognize the perfect orange?
Besides the characteristic "navel," pay attention to a few other factors:
- Weight: The heavier the orange, the more juice it holds inside.
- Peel: It should be smooth, shiny, and free of any damage.
- Color: An intense, orange color indicates ripeness.
- Firmness: The orange should be firm but not hard.
Where to find the best oranges?
The best oranges are primarily found from late fall to early spring. It's worth looking for them in reputable stores that offer the highest quality fruits. Pay attention to varietal labels to ensure you are purchasing the desired Navel.
