Fruit | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie Mediterranean

Clementine

Citrus clementina Allergen-Free
Clementine

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rutaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean, Global
  • Seasonality Late Fall to Winter
  • Source Clementine tree

The Forktionary Angle

"The sunny burst of winter sweetness, designed for effortless enjoyment."

Definition

A small, sweet, seedless hybrid mandarin orange known for its easy-to-peel skin and juicy segments.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Tangy, Citrusy
TextureJuicy, Tender segments, Easy-to-peel skin
AromaSweet citrus, Floral
AcidityMed

Technical Metrics

Peak Season

Late Fall to Early Spring.

Storage Life (Room Temp)

5-7 days.

Vitamin C Content

One provides 40% of daily recommended intake.

Nutrition Facts

Per 74g (1 medium fruit)
Calories47 kcal
Total Fat0.2g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0.9g
Total Carbohydrate12g
Dietary Fiber1.7g
Total Sugars9g
Calcium30mg
Iron0.1mg
Potassium177mg

Chef’s Secret

Use the zest of clementines in baking or savory dishes for a concentrated burst of sweet, floral citrus aroma.

Substitutions

Best Match

Mandarin Orange

1:1

Nearly identical in size, sweetness, and peelability; often used interchangeably.

Satsuma Orange

1:1

Another sweet, easy-to-peel variety of mandarin, slightly flatter.

Orange (e.g., Navel)

1 small orange = 2 clementines

Larger, thicker peel, but similar sweet-tart juice. Good for segments or juice.

Tangerine

1:1

Slightly tarter and often has seeds, but similar overall flavor.

Buying Guide

Choose firm, heavy fruits with bright, unbroken skins. Store at room temperature for a few days or refrigerate for longer.

Flavor Pairings

Salads yogurt chicken duck chocolate nuts seafood fennel.

Recipes Using Clementine

Easy Presentation Course Fruit

After The Party Is Over Refreshing Detox Fresh Fruit Salad

Kickstart your day or recover from a festive feast with this vibrant and healthy fruit salad! Perfect for brunch the morning after a celebration, or as a light yet impressive dessert. This colorful mix of fresh fruits is packed with vitamins and antioxidants for a quick mental and physical boost. Easily adaptable to seasonal produce, it's delicious served plain, with a dollop of crème fraîche or vanilla yogurt, or even with a champagne twist for a special occasion! This recipe serves 6-8 people but is easily scalable.

See Complete Recipe
Course Course Beverages New Years

Amaretto Cranberry Kiss

A festive and refreshing cocktail! The tart cranberry juice dances perfectly with the smooth amaretto and a kick of vodka. Easy to make ahead, this elegant drink is perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. Garnish with bright clementine segments for an extra touch of sophistication.

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