What Is a Blood Orange and What Does It Taste Like? (2024)

FAQs

What Is a Blood Orange and What Does It Taste Like? ›

The blood orange has a complex flavor that's reminiscent of navel oranges, but is more floral and tart. Blood oranges are generally sweeter and less acidic than regular oranges. Some people have compared the taste to that of a raspberry.

Blood oranges may taste differently based on which variety you are sampling. They are less tangy than standard oranges and have more of a floral or tart flavor. Some varieties may taste like orange juice with added raspberry, cranberry, or fruit punch flavors.

With their sweet taste and vivid color, blood oranges make a great addition to desserts, breakfasts, and even savory dishes. You can consume blood oranges raw, cooked, or juiced. Here are some suggestions for ways you can try this tasty fruit: Eat blood oranges raw.

The difference between these two varieties of orange is that blood oranges have an antioxidant called anthocyanin. This antioxidant gives blood oranges their distinct color, but it also reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Also, the blood orange is less tangy than a navel orange but has a floral tart taste.

Store blood oranges at room temperature and they'll last several days. You can extend their shelf life for as long as two weeks by placing them in the refrigerator. Bring your oranges to room temperature before eating them to maximize their flavor.

The blood orange is a variety of orange with crimson, near blood-colored flesh. It is one of the sweet orange varieties (Citrus × sinensis). It is also known as the raspberry orange.

Rich in vitamin C, anthocyanins (antioxidant) & folate, which may support healthy immune function & reduce inflammation.

They're a little more expensive than regular oranges because of their shorter growing season and the small number of places they grow, but they're definitely worth the splurge.

What sets them apart from the common sweet orange is that they contain pigments known as anthocyanins in their flesh, and sometimes in their peels. This pigment gives the flesh of blood oranges a deep, reddish colour, hence the name 'blood' orange.

Overall, blood oranges appear to be very safe to eat, however, if you have any existing health issues, are pregnant or breastfeeding or are taking any medications, it is highly recommended you seek the advice of a competent healthcare professional regarding what foods you should include in your diet.

Are blood oranges good for high blood pressure? ›

Studies have shown that nutrients called flavonoids present in citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruit, play a role in lowering blood pressure. Flavonoids are a form of plant chemicals that function as antioxidants in the body, protecting against free radicals' damaging effects.

Like most fruits, blood oranges are low in calories, fat, and protein, and high in carbs and natural sugars.

Tarocco blood oranges are the sweetest of the blood orange varieties, and have long been cultivated in Sicily and other Mediterranean-like climates.

Blood oranges can be mutations of navel or Valencia oranges, but Cara Caras are a variation of navel oranges exclusively. Both share a reputation for high-impact color and flavor. However, blood oranges are more widely used in sweet and savory recipes, while Cara Caras are used more on the sweet side.

Navel Oranges

Navels are sweet, seedless, and perfect for eating out-of-hand; but they are also delicious in salads. Navel oranges are in season from November into June. Navel oranges have comparatively thick skins and a characteristic navel-looking mark on the non-stem end.

All citrus contains high levels of folate. Depending on the variety, blood oranges may contain up to 10% more than other oranges, making them a welcome addition to any prenatal diet. They may assist with weight loss: Blood oranges are low in calories, have virtually no fat and contain on average 3g of dietary fibre.

There are three common reasons why fruit may taste more sour than expected: 1) The fruit came from the rootstock portion of the tree; 2) The fruit wasn't fully mature when picked; or 3) the tree is infected with Huanglongbing (HLB) a.k.a. citrus greening or yellow dragon disease.

The primary factor that sets these two types of juice apart is their taste: blood orange juice has its characteristic sweet raspberry flavor, while grapefruit juice is a refreshing mix of sweet and tart.

Iron and Metal Taste

The metallic taste associated with blood is primarily due to the presence of iron in it.