Difference Between Orange And Tangerine

July 19, 2024

Orange and tangerine are citrus fruits with similar characteristics, but they possess various distinctions that can help tell the two apart. Here is a comprehensive look at the difference between oranges and tangerines.

Origins

Citrus fruits have unclear origins, although scholars believe that some genera in the citrus family may have originated in Southeast Asia before spreading to the Arabian Peninsula and Africa. Tangerines arrived in the US from Morocco in the 1800s, and oranges have been cultivated in the US since the end of the 16th century

Oranges typically have provenance from countries in the Mediterranean Basin, such as Portugal and Spain. Tangerines are suited to tropical climates, and have origins in China, Japan, and India.

Appearance

The most distinguishing feature between oranges and tangerines is their size. Tangerines are much smaller than oranges and have a thin, smooth skin that is easily peeled. Tangerines are typically 2-3 inches in diameter. Meanwhile, oranges are larger, measuring 3-4 inches across, and they have a thick, slightly textured skin.

In addition, tangerines have a dark orange color compared to the lighter oranges. Moreover, oranges have a small knob at one end, whilst tangerines have a flat bottom.

Flavor

Tangerines have a sweeter, more intense flavor than oranges due to the higher concentration of fructose. Oranges have a subtler flavor, mixed with a tartness. Substituting oranges for tangerines in a recipe may result in a dish that is slightly less sweet.

Tangerines are sometimes mistakenly called “clementines.” Clementines are a type of hybrid tangerine with a sweet but tangy flavor. They are also a little easier to peel than a tangerine.

Uses

Orange and tangerine are both popular fruits for juicing and can be used for preserves, marmalades, and syrups. Their zest and juice can be used to add flavor to cakes, dressings, and marinades.

In addition, tangerines can be used in salads and as a topping for desserts. Orange slices can also be frozen and used for smoothies and juices.

Nutrition

Oranges and tangerines are both excellent sources of dietary fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and folate. Oranges are especially high in Vitamin C, providing over 100% of the recommended daily allowance in a single serving.

Tangerines are higher in sugar and calories than oranges, but they are still healthy and nutritious. Both orange and tangerine are good choices for a healthy diet.

Selection

When selecting an orange or tangerine, pick a fruit that is firm to the touch and has a bright, glossy skin. The fruit should not have any blemishes on the skin and should have a strong, pleasant aroma. Avoid fruits that have soft spots on the skin, which may be an indication of spoilage.

Oranges and tangerines can be stored at room temperature for up to seven days and can be refrigerated for up to two weeks.

Varieties

The most common type of orange is the Navel orange, which is characterized by its unique shape and sweet flavor. Other varieties of oranges include Valencia, Blood oranges, and Seville oranges.

Tangerines come in several varieties, such as Dancy, Sunburst, Satsuma, and Nova. Dancy tangerines have a smooth, thin skin and a deep orange color. Sunburst tangerines offer a balanced sweet and sour flavor.

Availability

Orange and tangerine are widely available all year round, with peak season varying from one region to another. Generally, orange season runs from winter through summer, and tangerines are most abundant from autumn through winter.

Due to their longer shelf-life, oranges are much more widely available in stores than tangerines. Tangerines are less durable, so they can only be found in season.

Price

Oranges and tangerines are both priced similarly, although oranges tend to be marginally more expensive due to the availability of different varieties.

When buying in bulk, the price of tangerines is often around 10-20% lower than the price of oranges.

Conclusion

Orange and tangerine are both healthy and delicious fruits, but they have some significant differences that allow them to be easily told apart. Oranges are slightly larger, have a more tart flavor, and have thicker skin, whilst tangerines have a sweeter taste, thinner skin, and are smaller in size. Although both fruits have similar nutrition facts, oranges are higher in Vitamin C, and tangerines are richer in calories and sugar.

When choosing between oranges and tangerines, consider the flavor, availability, and price. Also, look for fruits that have a firm skin and a strong, pleasant aroma.