During the cold winter months, citrus fruits bring a welcome burst of sunshine, and among them, the Cara Cara orange stands out. At first glance, it might seem like any other orange. However, peeling away its fragrant skin reveals a fruit that’s truly special, offering a delightful taste and vibrant color that brightens up the winter season.
What Exactly Are Cara Cara Oranges?
Cara Cara oranges are a type of navel orange, but with unique characteristics that set them apart. They are typically smaller than standard navel oranges, possess a thinner skin, and boast a distinctive pinkish-red flesh. What truly makes them exceptional is their intense sweetness and a hint of berry-like flavor, often compared to raspberries, which elevates them beyond the typical navel orange experience.
Chefs particularly appreciate Cara Cara oranges not only for their exceptional taste but also for the striking visual appeal of their salmon-colored interior, adding an elegant touch to culinary creations.
Originally cultivated in Venezuela, the majority of Cara Cara oranges today are grown in California, benefiting from the state’s citrus-friendly climate.
So, When Are Cara Cara Oranges In Season? These winter gems typically start appearing at farmers markets and grocery stores as early as December and can be available until April. However, to enjoy them at their absolute best, aim for the peak season in January and February. During these months, their flavor and juiciness are most pronounced.
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Unpacking the Taste of Cara Cara Oranges
What makes these seemingly ordinary-looking oranges so sought after? One taste is all it takes to understand. Cara Cara oranges are notably less acidic and considerably sweeter than many other orange varieties. This delightful combination results in an intensely “orange-y” flavor, with some describing it as reminiscent of orange candy. Their complex flavor profile is often described as a wonderful blend of very sweet orange and berry notes, particularly raspberry or blackberry. Furthermore, their thinner pith contributes to a less bitter taste and a juicier overall experience.
Cara Cara Oranges Versus Blood Oranges: Key Differences
Given their vibrant coral color, Cara Cara oranges are sometimes mistaken for blood oranges. However, they are distinct fruits with several notable differences:
- Color Depth: The flesh of a blood orange can range from a deep red to a rich maroon-purple, while Cara Cara oranges exhibit a more orange to coral hue.
- Pigment Source: Blood oranges get their deep red color from anthocyanins, the same antioxidant compounds that give raspberries their red color. Cara Cara oranges, on the other hand, derive their unique grapefruit-like color from lycopene, another antioxidant similar to beta-carotene.
- Variety Lineage: Blood oranges can be mutations of either navel or Valencia oranges. Cara Cara oranges are exclusively a variation of navel oranges.
- Culinary Uses: Both types are celebrated for their striking color and flavor. However, blood oranges are more versatile and frequently used in both sweet and savory dishes, whereas Cara Cara oranges are predominantly favored for sweet applications.
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Best Practices for Storing Cara Cara Oranges
Like other winter citrus fruits, 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 sources, for about one to two weeks.
For extended storage, aiming for around a month, the crisper drawer of your refrigerator is ideal. If you refrigerate them, it’s recommended to bring them to room temperature before eating or using them in recipes. Colder temperatures can diminish their delicate flavors, and all citrus fruits yield more juice when at room temperature.
It’s worth noting that Cara Cara oranges have thinner peels and pith compared to navel or Valencia oranges, making them more delicate and less protected. This, combined with their high juice content, means they should be handled with care. Bruising can lead to soft spots and quicker spoilage.
Delicious Ways to Enjoy Cara Cara Oranges
The simplest and most rewarding way to enjoy Cara Cara oranges is to peel and eat them fresh! However, if you’re looking to explore their culinary potential, Cara Caras are excellent for both cooking and baking.
Consider using their zest and juice to create a zesty vinaigrette with whole grain mustard, white wine vinegar, and quality olive oil – perfect for dressing bitter winter greens like endive and radicchio.
Cara Cara’s robust, juicy flavor also makes them an exceptional choice for orange cakes, particularly for enhancing the glaze. Their natural sweetness makes them ideal for sorbets, custards, and even cheesecakes. They also shine in salads, such as an orange and fennel salad, which pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled meats. When you desire a more pronounced orange flavor in your dishes, reach for Cara Cara oranges – their flavor intensity is unmatched by many other orange varieties.
In conclusion, understanding when Cara Cara oranges are in season is key to enjoying this exceptional winter citrus at its peak. Look for them in January and February to experience their unique sweetness and vibrant flavor to the fullest.
