Blood Oranges – February Featured Ingredient

For the last month I have mentioned my Blood Oranges – February Featured Ingredient. Each year I cannot wait until these little babies are available. It’s delicious to drink alone as you would any other orange juice. But I have used blood orange juice in marinades as well as cocktails. You will find anywhere you use other citrus fruit like lemon and lime you may substitute blood orange juice. Sweetness can vary with this colorful citrus fruit yet I like using blood orange segments in salads mixed with Cara Cara segments, fennel, pomegranate and a simple vinaigrette. Crisp, light and perfect with seafood, roasted poultry and meat.

Blood Oranges – February Featured Ingredient

First of all, you ask what types are available, how long is their season and where can I find these little gems? I have the answers so keep reading. Three types of blood oranges are available usually in specialty markets or supermarkets carrying specialty foods. Check all the markets near you but blood ranges are also available online. The three types available are Moro, Tarocco, and Sanjuinello blood oranges. Blood oranges are known for their vibrant red-ruby to purple color flesh which is governed by the climate. Temperature plays a big role in the red color but no one really knows what that is. Blood Oranges have been extremely popular in Europe for years yet relatively new to us. These beauties have now become super popular in the United States and most crops are grown in Florida and San Diego, California.

Second, the season is not long for this flavorful fruit and I just want to cry when the season is over but before I know it they’re back. How time flies! Anyway, blood oranges are available from late December, early January through March. If there is an exceptional growing season depending on the area in which you live or purchasing online, you may find them through May. That’s music to my ears and if you have had the pleasure of tasting this fruit then you know what I mean. And if you haven’t tasted them, consequently you will be on a mission by the time you finish reading this post.

Blood Oranges – February Featured Ingredient

Get Blood Oranges – February Featured Ingredient for as long as you can. Finally experiment using the juice in cocktails like my Blood Orange Bourbon Sour or my Blood Orange Marinated Salmon Steaks. Introduce your family to blood oranges using them in salads, salsas, and sauces. Another side note is the darker the color, the more anthocyanins the fruit contains the better. Anthocyanins are believed to aid in the prevention of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, eye disorders and cancer. Full of fiber, vitamin C, potassium and some protein,   they’re healthy, fabulous and addicting. Fresh squeezed juice will keep for several weeks in the refrigerator depending on freshness. But trust me, it probably won’t last that long. Enjoy!