During the often-gloomy winter season, citrus fruits bring a welcome burst of sunshine to our tables. Among these, the Cara Cara navel orange stands out as a true gem. At first glance, it may appear unassuming, but peeling away its fragrant skin reveals a fruit of exceptional beauty and flavor, making it a highlight of the winter months.
Defining the Cara Cara Navel Orange
Simply put, a Cara Cara orange is a navel orange, but with unique and delightful distinctions. Compared to the standard navel oranges you might be familiar with, Cara Caras tend to be slightly smaller, possess a thinner skin, and showcase a captivating pinkish-red flesh. They are highly sought after for their remarkably sweet taste, often described as having a berry-like essence, reminiscent of raspberries, which elevates them above typical navel oranges in terms of flavor complexity and sweetness.
Chefs and food enthusiasts particularly appreciate Cara Cara oranges not only for their exquisite taste but also for the striking visual appeal of their salmon-pink interiors, adding a touch of elegance to culinary creations.
Originally discovered in Venezuela, the majority of Cara Cara oranges are now cultivated in California, benefiting from the state’s ideal citrus-growing climate.
The season for Cara Cara oranges falls squarely in winter. They may begin appearing in farmers’ markets and grocery stores as early as December and can remain available until April. However, their peak season, when they are at their most flavorful and abundant, is during January and February.
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The Delightful Taste of Cara Cara Oranges
You might wonder, what exactly makes these seemingly ordinary oranges so special? The answer lies in their exceptional flavor profile. Cara Cara oranges are noticeably less acidic and considerably sweeter than many other types of oranges. This combination results in an intensely “orange-y” flavor, with some describing it as akin to natural orange candy. Their dynamic taste is frequently characterized as a delightful fusion between a very sweet orange and the nuanced flavors of berries, particularly raspberry or blackberry. Furthermore, the pith of a Cara Cara orange is thinner, contributing to a less bitter taste and a more pronounced juiciness.
Cara Cara Oranges vs. Blood Oranges: Key Differences
Given their vibrant coral hue, Cara Cara oranges are sometimes mistaken for blood oranges. However, they are distinctly different fruits, each with unique characteristics. Here are some key distinctions:
- Color: The flesh of a blood orange can range from a deep red to a striking maroon-purple, while a Cara Cara orange exhibits a more orange to coral color.
- Pigmentation: Blood oranges get their deep red color from anthocyanins, the same antioxidant compounds responsible for the red color in raspberries. Cara Cara oranges, on the other hand, derive their grapefruit-like pink hue from lycopene, another antioxidant similar to beta-carotene.
- Variety: Blood oranges can be mutations of either navel or Valencia oranges, whereas Cara Cara oranges are exclusively a variation of navel oranges.
- Flavor and Use: Both types are known for their intense color and flavor. However, blood oranges are more versatile in both sweet and savory recipes, while Cara Cara oranges are predominantly favored for sweeter applications.
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How to Store Cara Cara Oranges for Freshness
Like other winter citrus varieties, Cara Cara oranges thrive in cool, dry conditions. For short-term storage, you can keep them at room temperature on your kitchen counter, away from direct sunlight and heating vents, for about one to two weeks.
For longer storage, extending to approximately a month, the crisper drawer of your refrigerator is the ideal place. If you choose to refrigerate them, it’s recommended to bring them to room temperature before eating or using them in cooking. Colder temperatures can diminish their nuanced flavors, and all citrus fruits release more juice when at room temperature.
It’s worth noting that the peel and pith of Cara Cara oranges are thinner and more delicate than those of navel or Valencia oranges, making them less insulated and more prone to bruising. Combined with their extra juiciness, this means they should be handled with care to prevent soft spots and spoilage.
Culinary Uses and Enjoyment of Cara Cara Oranges
The simplest and arguably best way to enjoy Cara Cara oranges is to eat them fresh, straight out of hand! However, if you’re looking to explore their culinary potential, Cara Caras are wonderfully versatile for both cooking and baking.
Consider using their zest and juice to create a vibrant vinaigrette. Combine it with whole grain mustard, white wine vinegar, and high-quality olive oil for a dressing that perfectly complements bitter winter greens like endive and radicchio.
Cara Cara oranges’ intensely juicy flavor also makes them an excellent choice for orange cakes, especially when it comes to creating a flavorful glaze. Their natural sweetness makes them ideal for desserts such as sorbets, custards, and even cheesecakes. They can also be the star ingredient in a refreshing orange and fennel salad, a delightful side dish for roasted or grilled meats. Whenever you desire a more pronounced and saturated orange flavor in your dishes, reach for Cara Cara oranges to elevate the taste experience.
