can i use normal orange instead of blood orange

There are several varieties of blood oranges, each with different sensory qualities and undeniable health benefits. The blood orange stands out from the typical orange due to its high anthocyanin content, giving its flesh that characteristic blood-red color.

Among citrus fruits, the orange is the most consumed fruit in France (12 kg per year per household). Its richness in vitamin C and antioxidants makes it a recommended fruit. However, despite being equally nutrient-rich, the blood orange still needs to be discovered.

Almost any recipe that calls for blood oranges can be made with regular oranges. It just might lack the vibrant color and a certain uniqueness. The main difference between blood and navel oranges is—you guessed it—the color.

How To Store Blood Oranges

To preserve whole blood oranges, one may leave them at room temperature for a maximum of four days or refrigerate them for up to two weeks. On the other hand, orange segments and halves can be stored in a hermetically sealed container in the refrigerator for several days.

When extracting the zest from these oranges (a recommended practice), any surplus zest should be frozen for future use. To achieve this, evenly spread the zest on a tray, freeze it, and transfer it to an airtight container. This method allows the zest to maintain its quality for four to six months.

It is advisable to utilize fresh orange juice immediately for optimal flavor and nutritional value. If necessary, the juice can be stored in a securely sealed container for a few days. Alternatively, a viable option is to freeze the juice by pouring it into ice cube trays and subsequently transferring the frozen cubes into an airtight container. These ice cubes can also serve as an aesthetically pleasing addition to various cocktails.

Before zesting the oranges, it is recommended to eliminate any wax residue by gently scrubbing the fruit with a vegetable brush or any brush with stiff bristles while rinsing it under warm water. It is essential to only zest the colored part of the peel, as the white pith tends to taste bitter.

Blood oranges exhibit remarkable versatility as a fruit. They can be effectively employed in recipes that traditionally call for regular oranges. However, their true magnificence manifests in beverage applications. From margaritas and tequila sunrises to gin or vodka-based concoctions, the vibrant red hue of blood oranges adds a captivating touch to any libation they grace.

Fibers are beneficial for digestion.

Blood oranges contain fiber; some varieties have even more fiber than common oranges.

Some varieties of blood oranges have seeds that can be consumed. These, along with the fibers found in the fruit’s flesh, are an exciting source of fiber, especially for people with sluggish intestinal transit. Fibers accelerate digestion and help alleviate constipation.

Fibers also help reduce the intestinal absorption of glucose, thereby avoiding significant fluctuations in blood sugar levels. They also reduce cholesterol absorption. Lastly, fibers have a satiating effect that helps minimize snacking.

What Are Blood Oranges And Their Health Benefits?

FAQ

Can you substitute oranges for blood oranges?

Is blood orange the same as regular orange?

How do you mimic blood orange flavor?

Are blood oranges more acidic than regular oranges?

What can I substitute for Blood Oranges?

Substitute For Blood Orange. You can substitute regular navel oranges for any recipe that calls for blood oranges but you will not get rich dark color or tangy flavor. You can also substitute the Cara Cara orange which is really a pink navel orange, not a blood orange.

Are oranges beneficial for 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. Oranges contain a flavonoid called hesperidin, that contributes to improved blood pressure and protects heart health as well.

What is the best way to use blood oranges?

Blood oranges are great for juicing and using as you would common orange juice. The dark red color of the juice makes it a good cocktail ingredient. Use fresh blood orange segments in salads, sauces, sorbets, granitas and compotes.

What is the difference between blood oranges and oranges?

Common oranges include recognizable citrus varieties like Valencia, California and navel oranges, but the more distinctive blood orange possesses a richer red or maroon color and raspberry-like flavor and scent. Despite their color and flavor difference, the two varieties of oranges share comparable nutritional statistics.