Tips

How to Choose the Perfect Sweet Orange, Every Time

The sweet and tangy orange is a citrus fruit packed with an abundance of vitamins and minerals, offering a delightful and nutritious treat. Discover the ultimate guide to selecting the perfect orange - a true delicacy that will tantalize your taste buds and provide a boost of essential nutrients. Learn how to choose the finest oranges and treat yourself to a burst of flavor and health!

Administrator

14 July, 2024

How to choose the right sweet orange without tasting it? Let’s see how connoisseurs select oranges.

1 Nutritional value and benefits of oranges

Nutritional value of oranges

Calories: 112
Protein: 2g
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 21g

Nutritional value and benefits of oranges

Health benefits of oranges

Rich in antioxidants: Antioxidants in orange juice improve health by preventing the effects of oxidation.
May help prevent kidney stones: Orange juice can increase the pH of urine, making it more alkaline and helping to prevent kidney stones.
Improves heart health: Studies show that drinking orange juice can reduce risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, in those who have cardiovascular issues.
Aids in weight control: Pectin suppresses appetite and hunger for a few hours, contributing to effective and healthy weight loss.

2 How to choose sweet and juicy oranges

Examine the shape

Choose oranges that are round and symmetrical, without any deformities. The stem should be fresh, and the skin around it should be thick and raised, with a slightly bumpy texture.

Oranges with very shiny skins tend to have more juice but are less sweet.

Assess the color

Sweet oranges have shiny green skins that are not too big or too rough.

Naturally ripened oranges are sweeter and tastier. If allowed to ripen on the tree, the bottoms of the oranges will turn slightly yellow. Oranges that are evenly colored have likely been ripened artificially.

Avoid oranges with bright yellow skins, detached stems, or signs of early dropping or pest damage.

If one side of the orange is brightly yellow, it has been sunburned and will likely have thick skin, dry and fibrous pulp, and less juice and sweetness.

Consider the weight

Sweet oranges of good quality are moderately sized but feel heavy for their size.

If an orange feels light for its size, it is likely dry, spongy, and lacking in juice.

3 Precautions and storage methods for oranges

Despite being rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, calcium, folic acid, and potassium, which boost immunity and overall health, oranges may not suit everyone.

People with stomach, duodenal, or pancreatic issues should avoid oranges as they increase stomach acid, causing heartburn and aggravating inflammation.

The best time to drink orange juice is in the morning, about 1-2 hours after breakfast.

Freshly squeezed orange juice should be consumed within 30 minutes to get the full nutritional benefits and avoid changes in taste due to oxidation, fermentation, etc.

After purchasing oranges, separate any damaged or bruised ones, and cut away the affected areas with a clean knife. Place the oranges in a ziplock, plastic, or mesh bag, leaving a small opening for air circulation.

To extend the shelf life of oranges, store them in the refrigerator, away from other fruits, meat, and fish.

4 Delicious dishes made with oranges

Peach, orange, and strawberry tea

This drink combines the sweetness of peach with the tangy flavors of orange and strawberry. It’s easy to make and has a unique, appealing taste.

Korean-style fried chicken with orange sauce

Treat your family and friends to this delicious Korean-style fried chicken with orange sauce. For extra flavor and crunch, sprinkle some crushed peanuts on top. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the orange sauce is absolutely mouthwatering.

Orange juice with milk

Beat the summer heat with this refreshing drink. Orange juice with milk combines the tangy taste of orange with the sweetness of condensed milk. The high vitamin C content of the orange juice boosts immunity and overall health.

See also:

5 [Company name]: The best place to buy oranges at great prices

[Company name]: The best place to buy oranges at great prices

Oranges are widely available in Vietnam, but be cautious of untrustworthy sellers offering chemically treated or unripe oranges. For peace of mind, buy oranges from reputable sources such as large supermarkets or [Company name]. Our oranges are carefully selected from the best orchards and offered at competitive prices, with frequent promotions.

See also: 1kg of fresh oranges at [Company name]

Now you know how to select the best sweet oranges. Keep these tips in mind the next time you go shopping for oranges.

Frequently asked questions

Start by looking for oranges with a thin, smooth, and firm skin that is free of blemishes and bruises. The orange should feel heavy for its size, indicating a high juice content. Avoid oranges with thick, pithy, or dry-looking skin as they tend to be less juicy and sweet. Also, opt for oranges with a deep, rich orange color as this indicates ripeness and a higher concentration of carotenoids, which are beneficial for your health.

A ripe and sweet orange will have a deep orange color, firm and smooth skin, and a heavy feel. It should also have a pleasant, citrusy aroma. Avoid oranges with green patches as they are unripe and will not taste as sweet. Remember, the thicker the skin, the drier and less juicy the fruit tends to be.

Oranges can be stored at room temperature for a few days, but for extended freshness, it’s best to keep them in the refrigerator. They can last for up to two weeks when refrigerated properly. Place them in the crisper drawer or in a perforated plastic bag to maintain humidity and prevent them from drying out.

Sweet oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts immunity and helps absorb iron from plant-based foods. They also contain fiber, which aids digestion and lowers cholesterol levels. Additionally, oranges are packed with carotenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, promoting overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Yes, you can freeze sweet oranges to extend their shelf life. Peel and segment the oranges, then place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen oranges are perfect for smoothies, desserts, or as a refreshing snack during the hotter months.