How to pick the sweetest navel oranges this winter
Time for citrus! On cold winter days, there's nothing better than a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or some aromatic zest added to tea. But how do you choose the sweetest and juiciest fruits from the many store varieties?
5 November 2024 10:36
Oranges are especially popular during the fall and winter months. Currently, citrus fruits are at their peak flavour—bursting with juice and sweetness and packed with vitamins and antioxidants. However, when standing before a crate of oranges, how do you select 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
There's a simple way to distinguish an ordinary orange from a true queen of sweetness. Are you looking for a fruit with a distinctive indentation on one side that looks like a navel? This small detail reveals we are dealing with a Navel variety, renowned for its exceptional taste.
Why is the "navel" so important?
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 doesn't want to spend 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.
- Colour: An intense, orange colour indicates ripeness.
- Firmness: The orange should be firm but not hard.
Where to find the best oranges?
The best oranges are primarily available 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 purchase the desired Navel variety.
