WHAT IS A TANGELO?
It is a citrus hybrid made from a tangerine and a pomelo (grapefruit). Unlike many modern day experiments, this fruit occurred naturally several thousand years ago in Asia. Also known as a honeybell, they’re about the size of a baseball, juicy and have a sweetly tart taste. In appearance and shape, they’re almost identical to an orange except for at the base of the fruit where the stem was attached. There you can see a nipple-shaped protrusion on top. With a thinner skin than your traditional orange they’re easier to peel. They are almost seedless making them a popular and easy snack when you’re in a rush or on the road.
WHY ARE TANGELOS GOOD FOR YOU?
They are the best of both worlds when it comes to their health benefits. This fruit has more vitamin A, C and fiber then oranges while being lower in calories. Like most citrus fruit they’re also a good source of folate, potassium and thiamin.
WHEN ARE TANGELOS IN SEASON?
Depending on their location they are actually an early Spring harvest. In California for example they’re available January through March.
HOW SHOULD TANGELOS BE STORED?
Like with all citrus fruits store them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Do not store in an airtight bag, instead the bottom drawer of your refrigerator will work. This only slows the maturation process down, giving you around a week or so. If you need to store them for longer, peel the tangelos removing the skin and white pith and then separate them into portions. You can then freeze them in a zip lock bag (tightly sealed unlike what I just said above) for several months. While they won’t be as delicious as non-frozen fruit, you can then use them in drinks, sauces or dressing when they’re not normally available!
WHAT IS THE PROPER WAY TO CUT A TANGELO?
The knife technique is the same as with an orange. Click here to see!
WHICH RECIPES ARE TANGELOS GOOD FOR?
Much like with other fruits, they can be used in a wide variety of recipes! Martha Stewart uses them in a chutney-style relish, but they’re also good in puddings, muffins, fruit tarts and even popsicles!
