What Do Tangerines Taste Like?

Tangerines are small, bright orange citrus fruits that I often ate for school lunches. But it wasn’t until now that I really thought about what they taste like.

The taste of tangerine is a delightful blend of sweet and tart with a hint of honey and a light refreshing citrus fragrance.

In this article, I’ll go into detail about the taste of tangerines and what makes them so special.

How Do Tangerines Taste?

Tangerines have a vibrant flavor that is both sweet and tart. The sweetness is reminiscent of honey, while the tartness is milder than that of an orange, making it a perfect balance that is pleasing to the palate.

The fruit’s aroma is equally appealing, with a fresh, citrusy scent that is often used in perfumes and essential oils.

When ripe, tangerines have a soft and juicy texture. The juiciness of the fruit enhances its sweet flavor, making each bite a burst of refreshment. The skin of the tangerine is thin and easy to peel, and the fruit inside is usually seedless, making it a convenient snack.

Comparing Tangerines With Other Citrus Fruits

• Oranges: Tangerines are sweeter and less acidic than oranges. They also have thinner, easier-to-peel skin.
• Mandarins: Tangerines are a subtype of mandarins, but they are generally sweeter and have a stronger flavor.
• Clementines: These are similar to tangerines, but they are seedless, have a slightly different flavor profile, and have less tartness.
• Grapefruits: Tangerines are much sweeter and less bitter than grapefruits. They also have a smaller size and a more intense aroma.
• Lemons: Unlike lemons, tangerines are sweet and can be eaten on their own. Lemons are more acidic and are usually not eaten alone.
• Limes: Tangerines are sweeter and less tart than limes. They also have a more complex flavor profile, blending sweet, tart, and bitter notes.

Do Tangerines Taste Good?

They offer a refreshing burst of citrus that can be more appealing than the sometimes overpowering acidity of other citrus fruits.

However, not everyone is a fan. Some people might find the sweetness of tangerines a bit too intense, while others might not appreciate the slight bitterness that comes from the pith.

Interestingly, the taste of tangerines can change based on their storage conditions. Fresh tangerines usually have a vibrant and juicy flavor. On the other hand, if they’re frozen, they might lose some of their sweetness and become a bit bland.

So, fresh is the way to go if you’re looking for the best tangerine experience.

What Does a Tangerine Look Like?

A tangerine is a small, round fruit that is usually about 2 to 4 inches in diameter. It has bright orange skin that is thinner and easier to peel than that of an orange. The skin is often slightly loose, giving the fruit a slightly squishy feel when you squeeze it.

When you’re buying tangerines at the grocery store, look for fruits that are heavy for their size, which indicates they are juicy. The skin should be bright and glossy, without any dark spots or mold.

Also, the fruit should feel firm but not hard. A soft or shriveled tangerine could be overripe or spoiled. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, remember these tips to pick the best tangerines.

Do Tangerines Have Seeds?

Yes, tangerines do have seeds, but the number can vary. Some varieties of tangerines are virtually seedless, while others can contain a few seeds. The seeds are small and hard, and they’re usually found in the center of each fruit segment.

As for the flavor, tangerine seeds have a bitter taste if you bite into them, which is why most people choose to remove or avoid them when eating the fruit.

While the seeds are technically edible and won’t harm you if swallowed, they can be a bit unpleasant due to their bitterness and hard texture. So, while enjoying your tangerine, setting the seeds aside is best.

How To Make Tangerines Taste Good

Even though tangerines are delicious on their own, there are a few tricks to enhance their flavor without necessarily adding them to recipes. Here are some suggestions:

• Choose the Right Tangerines: Look for tangerines that are heavy for their size and have bright, glossy skin. These are usually the juiciest and most flavorful.
• Store Them Properly: Keep your tangerines in a cool, dark place. You can store them in the refrigerator if you want them to last longer. To get the best flavor out of them, bring them to room temperature before eating.
• Peel Carefully: When peeling your tangerine, try to remove as much of the white pith as possible. The pith can add a bitter taste to the fruit.
• Serve at Room Temperature: Tangerines taste best at room temperature. If they’re too cold, it can dull the flavor.
• Pair with Complementary Flavors: While not a recipe, pairing tangerines with other foods can enhance their taste. Try eating them with a bit of dark chocolate or a handful of nuts for a delicious snack.

Remember, the best way to enjoy a tangerine is to savor its natural, sweet-tart flavor. So, take your time and enjoy every bite.

Tangerine Recipes And Side Dishes

Tangerine in Recipes

Tangerines can be a delightful addition to a variety of dishes. Here are a few popular recipes where the sweet-tart flavor of tangerines shines:

• Tangerine Glazed Ham: Tangerines’ sweet and tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the salty richness of ham.
• Tangerine Chicken: This is a twist on the classic orange chicken, with tangerine adding a unique flavor.
• Tangerine Marmalade: This sweet and tangy spread is perfect on toast or biscuits.
• Tangerine Sorbet: A refreshing dessert that showcases the bright flavor of tangerines.

Side Dishes

Tangerines can also be incorporated into side dishes to add a burst of citrus flavor:

• Tangerine Salad: Add tangerine segments to a salad for a sweet and juicy addition.
• Tangerine Salsa: Combine tangerine segments with jalapenos, onions, and cilantro for a fruity twist on traditional salsa.
• Roasted Vegetables with Tangerine: Toss your favorite vegetables with tangerine juice and roast them for a flavorful side dish.

Tangerine FAQs