The Sweet Tangerine Juice

About Tangerines

Tangerine is a variety of Mandarin orange. It is a citrus fruit similar to orange but is usually smaller in size, easier to peel and less sour and tangy compared to oranges. Scientifically it is called Citrus reticulata and belongs to the same plant family as oranges. Tangerines have the same bright orange color as oranges. Their skins are somewhat pebbly and leathery, and their flesh is juicy and rich in vitamin C.

Tangerines are known worldwide and exist in many varieties. One variety is known as ponkan or the Chinese honey Tangerine. Another popular one and considered to be the most widely cultivated tangerine is the sunburst. The oldest and formerly most famous tangerine is the Dancy tangerine, but it is no longer so widely cultivated these days.

Tangerine Season and History

Tangerines are usually at peak during the months of October to April in the northern hemisphere. In these months tangerines are at their best quality.

Tangerines have been cultivated by Chinese for more than 3,000 years now and China is considered their homeland. They can grow in tropical and subtropical areas and today top tangerine producers are countries including Arizona, California, Texas and Europe.

Tangerine Nutrition Facts

Because tangerines are naturally tender and juicy, making tangerine juice is an obvious step. Their juice is much sweeter than orange juice and is also high in vitamin C.  People in all ages love tangerine juice!

 Nutrition facts of Tangerine (1 cup= 195 g)

Vitamin C: 52. 1 mg

Vitamin A: 1328 IU

Folate: 31.2 mcg

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid): 0.4 mg

 Minerals:

Calcium: 72.2 mg

Magnesium: 23.4 mg

Phosphorus: 39.0 mg

Potassium: 324 mg

 Protein: 1.6 g

Total Carbohydrates: 26 g

Total sugar: 20.6

Dietary Fiber: 3.5 g

The Good Thing: Tangerines are not only exceptionally rich in Vitamin C but also in Vitamin A. The amounts of vitamin C and A  in small tangerines are higher compared to the average-sized oranges. These Vitamins are potent antioxidants that help your body fight diseases and the effects of aging. Aside from these vitamins, tangerines are also rich in other nutrients such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus and folate.

The Bad thing: Most of the carbohydrates in tangerines are from sugar. That explains their sweetness.

Health Benefits Of Tangerines

Healthy Tummy

Pectin is a substance commonly found in fruits, specifically in their cell walls. Tangerine is one of the fruits containing pectin. Several studies were conducted about pectin’s benefits for the digestive system and it was found that when digested, this substance is fermented within your intestines and can increase the number of good bacteria in your digestive tract.  The more good bacteria in the body means the higher immunity to pathogenic bacteria. Good bacteria also aid in digestion and protect our gut from inflammation caused by harmful microorganisms. Aside from tangerine’s pectin content, fiber is another part of tangerines that is good for the digestive system.

Lowers Cholesterol Levels

Because tangerines are rich in soluble fiber, lamella specifically, cholesterol levels in the body are regulated and reduced. Soluble fiber does this by slowing down the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines and this way reducing the level of bad cholesterol in the blood.

Prevents Unwanted Weight Gain

If you want to control your weight include tangerines to your regular diet. Tangerines are high in carbohydrates and fiber which will keep you feeling fuller for a longer period of time. They also normalize your bowel movement which is good when trying to maintain weight. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals but of course include other fruits, vegetables and proteins in your diet.

Tangerine-Grapefruit Juice Recipe

Pure Tangerine juice is quite expensive when made so it is often mixed with other citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits. The sweet and unique flavors of tangerines blend well with these fruits.

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients:

• 3 tangerines
• 1 grapefruit
• 3-4 tablespoons sugar
• 4-5 ice cubes

Instructions:

• Peel tangerines and grapefruit. Divide into segments before placing into the juicer or blender.
• Pour the peeled and segmented tangerines and grapefruit into the juicer or blender.
• Add sugar and blend well until juicy and smooth.
• Pour into a pitcher and add ice cubes to chill.
• Serve cold!