Valencia Oranges
Estimated Inventory, cs : 0
Description/Taste
Valencia oranges are medium to large in size, averaging 7-10 centimeters in diameter, and are round to oval in shape. The thin rind is golden orange with a rough, leathery texture due to many prominent oil glands that contain fragrant essential oils. Underneath the surface of the rind, the white, spongy pith clings tightly to the flesh making the fruit somewhat difficult to peel. The yellow-orange flesh is tender, extremely juicy, contains 1-6 cream-colored seeds, and is divided into 10-12 segments by thin membranes. It is important to note that sometimes a Valencia orange may go through a regreening process, which is when the fruit reabsorbs chlorophyll giving it hues of green even though the fruit is fully ripe. Regreening does not affect the flavor of the orange, and when ripe, Valencia oranges have a balanced, sweet-tart flavor.
Seasons/Availability
Valencia oranges are available in the spring through summer.
Current Facts
Valencia oranges, botanically classified as Citrus sinensis, are a sweet orange variety that grows on evergreen trees and is a member of the Rutaceae or citrus family. Also known as the Summer orange, there are at least fifty different known sub-varieties and hybrids of the original Valencia orange in existence, and this orange is often regarded as one of the most popular varieties in the world. Valencia oranges are a late-season variety that are the only oranges to ripen in the summer. They are favored by chefs and home cooks for their sweet-tart flavor and juice. The juice is so popular that Valencia oranges account for over half of Florida’s citrus cultivation in the United States and the majority of the Valencia oranges grown are used for juice production.
