ADVERTISEMENT

Unlock the Secret to Picking the Juiciest, Sweetest Oranges

ADVERTISEMENT

Have you ever wondered how to choose the best oranges at the market? A trick passed down by experienced fruit farmers can make all the difference in selecting oranges that are not only sweet but also brimming with juice. It involves a simple visual assessment that everyone can use to pick the perfect “male” orange for that delectable, refreshing taste.

The Trick to Picking the Best Oranges

The term “male” orange is a colloquial way some farmers differentiate between less and more desirable fruits, but it’s not scientifically accurate as fruits don’t have genders. However, the method revolves around identifying characteristics that typically indicate an orange is ripe, juicy, and sweet.

Look for the Navel

One key feature to look for is the navel of the orange, which is the area opposite the stem. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Shape and Size: A smaller, more pronounced navel on an orange often indicates a sweeter, juicier fruit. This is because these oranges typically have thicker skins with more space for the juicy segments inside.
  • Texture of the Skin: Choose oranges that have smoother skin. Rough, bumpy oranges might be tasty, but smooth-skinned oranges often have a thinner rind and more flesh inside.
  • Heaviness: When picking up an orange, feel its weight. Oranges that are heavier for their size are usually juicier. This is a reliable indicator that the fruit has a high water content, which translates to more juice.
  • Continued on next page

    ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT