Navel Orange: A Guide to Buying, Cooking With, and Storing Navel Oranges

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on navel oranges! If you’re in Australia, you’re in luck because navel oranges are abundant in supermarkets from May to November. These citrus fruits are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about buying, cooking with, and storing navel oranges. So, let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of navel oranges!

Key Takeaways:

• Choose brightly colored, firm, and heavy navel oranges when buying.
• Store navel oranges at room temperature or in the fridge, away from direct sunlight.
• Navel oranges are versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or used in various recipes.
• They are a great source of vitamin C and dietary fiber.
• Explore the unique flavors and health benefits of navel oranges in your Aussie meals.

Navel Orange: A Variety of Citrus Fruit

Navel oranges are a winter cultivar of the species Citrus sinensis. They have thick, bright orange skin and sweet, juicy fruit. Navel oranges are seedless and have 10 to 12 sections of tender, juicy flesh. They are round to slightly oval in shape. The first navel orange tree was discovered in Brazil in 1820. Navel oranges are named for the small indentation on the rind that resembles a human navel. They are cultivated through grafting, resulting in genetic clones of the original tree. Navel oranges are available from November through June, with peak season in January and February.

Navel Orange: A Variety of Citrus Fruit

Navel oranges have a distinctive flavor that combines sweetness, tanginess, and tartness. The flesh is tender and juicy, making it a refreshing treat. The thick skin helps protect the fruit and keep it fresh. Navel oranges are a popular choice due to their easy-to-peel nature and the absence of seeds. Their vibrant color adds visual appeal to any dish or fruit bowl.

Characteristics	Description
Shape	Round to slightly oval
Color	Bright orange
Texture	Tender and juicy
Seedless	Yes
Sections	10 to 12

Navel oranges are a delightful citrus fruit with a unique taste and texture. They are perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite recipes or enjoying as a healthy snack. Their vibrant color and sweet citrus aroma make them a standout choice in any fruit display. Whether you’re using them in salads, juices, or desserts, navel oranges are sure to add a touch of freshness and brightness to your meals.

Conclusion

With their sweet, juicy flesh and vibrant color, navel oranges are a delightful variety of citrus fruit. They are easy to enjoy on their own or incorporate into a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re squeezing them for juice, adding them to salads, or using them in marinades, navel oranges bring a burst of flavor and a hint of sunshine to your table. Next time you’re at the supermarket, be sure to pick up some navel oranges and discover the joy of this delicious citrus fruit.

Navel Orange: Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

When it comes to nutrition, navel oranges are a fantastic choice. A 100-gram serving of navel oranges is 87 percent water, making it a hydrating fruit option. In addition, this serving size provides 52 calories and 12 grams of carbohydrates. Navel oranges contain 2 grams of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer. They are also virtually fat-free and have negligible amounts of protein.

One of the key selling points of navel oranges is their high vitamin C content. In fact, a 100-gram serving of navel oranges provides about 72 percent of the daily value of vitamin C. This essential vitamin supports a healthy immune system, helps the body absorb iron, and promotes collagen production for healthy skin.

What sets navel oranges apart from other citrus fruits is their unique flavor profile. They have a sweet taste with a tangy and tart undertone, making them a delight to eat on their own or incorporate into various dishes. However, it’s important to note that navel oranges contain a compound called limonin, which can produce bitter or sour flavors when exposed to oxygen. So be mindful of that when cooking or juicing with them.

With their impressive nutritional profile and delicious taste, navel oranges offer numerous health benefits. From bolstering your immune system to promoting glowing skin, these fruits are a smart addition to your diet. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, use them in salads, or incorporate them into sauces and desserts, navel oranges bring a burst of flavor and a wealth of nutrients to your plate.

Buying Navel Oranges: Tips for Selecting the Best Fruit

When it comes to buying navel oranges, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure you select the best fruit. Firstly, look for oranges that are brightly colored and have a firm texture. The vibrant color indicates that the fruit is ripe and packed with flavor. Avoid oranges with soft patches, bruises, or any signs of mold, as these can indicate spoilage.

Another important factor to consider is the weight of the oranges. Choose fruits that feel heavy for their size, as this indicates a juicier and more flavorful orange. Additionally, it’s preferred to select navel oranges that are uniformly sized and free from blemishes. While minor imperfections on the outside of the fruit won’t affect the quality inside, it’s always enjoyable to have a visually appealing piece of fruit.

If you’re looking for a unique twist, consider trying Cara Cara oranges. These navel oranges have a beautiful red flesh and offer a slightly sweeter flavor compared to traditional navel oranges. They make a striking addition to fruit salads or can be enjoyed on their own.

Table: Tips for Selecting the Best Navel Oranges

Factors to Consider	Tips
Brightness of Color	Choose oranges with vibrant, bright skin.
Firmness	Select oranges with a firm texture.
Weight	Choose oranges that feel heavy for their size.
Blemishes	Avoid oranges with soft patches, bruises, or signs of mold.
Uniformity	Prefer uniformly sized and blemish-free fruit.

Once you’ve selected your navel oranges, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. You can store navel oranges at room temperature for about a week, or even longer if refrigerated. However, ensure you keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent premature spoilage.

Cooking With Navel Oranges: Delicious Recipes to Try

When it comes to cooking with navel oranges, the possibilities are endless. These juicy and tangy citrus fruits can add a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking to enhance a savory stir-fry or create a refreshing salad, navel oranges are a versatile ingredient that can elevate any recipe.

One delicious recipe idea is to incorporate navel oranges into a garlic prawn stir-fry. The sweetness of the oranges pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the prawns and garlic. Squeeze fresh orange juice over the stir-fry for a tangy twist that complements the dish beautifully.

Squeeze fresh orange juice over the stir-fry for a tangy twist that complements the dish beautifully.

If you’re a fan of lamb, consider trying an orange and rosemary lamb cutlets dish. The combination of the citrusy navel oranges and fragrant rosemary creates a delightful flavor profile. Serve the cutlets with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

For a lighter option, whip up a fennel and orange salad. The crispness of the fennel and the juicy sweetness of the navel oranges create a refreshing and vibrant salad. Toss the ingredients together with a simple vinaigrette for a burst of citrusy goodness.

Table: Cooking With Navel Oranges Recipes

Recipe	Ingredients	Instructions
Garlic Prawn Stir-Fry	• Prawns • Navel oranges • Garlic • Soy sauce • Sesame oil • Ginger	1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté garlic and ginger. 2. Add prawns and cook until pink. 3. Squeeze fresh orange juice over the prawns and stir-fry for a few more minutes. 4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Orange and Rosemary Lamb Cutlets	• Lamb cutlets • Navel oranges • Rosemary • Olive oil • Salt and pepper	1. Marinate lamb cutlets with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. 2. Grill or pan-fry the cutlets until cooked to your desired doneness. 3. Squeeze fresh orange juice over the cutlets and serve hot.
Fennel and Orange Salad	• Fennel • Navel oranges • Mixed greens • Red onion • Olive oil • Lemon juice • Salt and pepper	1. Slice fennel and oranges thinly. 2. In a bowl, combine fennel, oranges, mixed greens, and red onion. 3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. 4. Season with salt and pepper, and toss gently to combine.

As you can see, cooking with navel oranges opens up a world of delicious and creative possibilities. From savory stir-fries to refreshing salads, these citrus fruits add a unique and tangy flavor to a variety of dishes. So go ahead and experiment with navel oranges in your kitchen to create culinary delights that are sure to impress.

Storing Navel Oranges: Tips to Keep Them Fresh

You’ve bought some delicious navel oranges, but now you’re wondering how to store them to keep them fresh and juicy. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some simple tips to ensure your oranges stay at their best.

Storing at Room Temperature

If your navel oranges are already fully ripe and ready to eat, you can store them at room temperature for up to three to four days. Place them in a fruit bowl or on the countertop, away from direct sunlight. It’s important to note that if you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold or soft spots, it’s best to discard the fruit to avoid contaminating the rest.

Refrigeration for Longer Storage

For longer storage, or if your oranges are not yet fully ripe, refrigeration is the way to go. Simply place your navel oranges in the fridge to keep them fresh for up to two weeks. Before storing, make sure to dry the outside of the fruit properly to prevent any moisture buildup that could cause rot.

Storage Method	Duration
Room Temperature	3-4 days (fully ripe)
Refrigeration	Up to 2 weeks

To maximize the shelf life of your navel oranges, consider wrapping each fruit individually in paper or storing them in a sealed container. This will help prevent any ethylene gas, which is naturally released by citrus fruits, from affecting the quality of the surrounding fruit.

Remember, the ideal refrigerator temperature for navel oranges is between 45 and 48 degrees Fahrenheit. Keeping your oranges fresh and properly stored will ensure that you can enjoy their sweet, tangy flavor for longer.

Conclusion

Navel oranges are a beloved fruit in Australia, known for their juicy sweetness and vibrant flavor. Whether enjoyed on their own or incorporated into delicious recipes, Australian navel oranges offer a delightful burst of citrus goodness.

From May to November, you can find an abundance of navel oranges in Australian supermarkets. These citrus gems are at their peak in January and February, providing you with the freshest and most flavorful options.

When selecting navel oranges, remember to look for fruit that is firm, heavy, and brightly colored. This ensures that you’re choosing the best quality oranges for your meals and snacks.

Whether you’re juicing them, adding them to salads, or using them in savory dishes, navel oranges bring a touch of brightness to every bite. Their nutritional benefits, including being a great source of vitamin C, make them a healthy and delicious choice.

So, embrace the navel orange season in Australia and make these vibrant citrus fruits a staple in your kitchen. They are sure to add a burst of flavor and color to your Aussie meals!