Mandarin Orange

*Citrus reticulata* Fruit, Citrus, Snack

Mandarin Orange Fruit, Citrus, Snack

At a Glance

  • Category Fruit, Citrus, Snack

The Forktionary Angle

"The bright, convenient burst of sunshine that adds sweetness and acidity to both salads and desserts."

Definition

A small, easy-to-peel citrus fruit, known for its sweet, juicy segments and fragrant zest, popular fresh or canned.

Global Production (million tons/year) ~30-35
Peak Season (Northern Hemisphere) November to January
Vitamin C Content (per 100g) ~26 mg (32% DV)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Mandarin Orange are:

Sweet Tangy Aromatic Citrusy

Chef’s Secret

Zest mandarins before peeling; the highly aromatic zest can be candied, infused into olive oil, or finely grated into dressings and baked goods.

Best Substitutes

Clementines

Ratio 1:1

tangerines

Ratio 1:1

navel orange segments

larger pieces
Ratio 1:1

canned peaches

for sweetness/texture in some recipes
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose firm, heavy fruits with bright, unblemished skin. Store at room temperature or refrigerated for longer shelf life.

Recipes Using Mandarin Orange

Summer Occasion Rice Salad Dressings

Just Trust Me Bistro Chicken Salad

This incredible chicken salad recipe, inspired by a Newport Beach culinary award winner, boasts a unique blend of ingredients that will melt in your mouth. Imagine a gourmet garden luncheon at a five-star estate – this is the taste you'll be recreating! This show-stopping side dish is perfect for impressing your guests at your next gathering. Get ready to be the talk of the town!

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Vegetarian Vegetables Low Calorie Low In Something

Asparagus Mandarin Orange Salad

Brighten your spring and summer with this vibrant Asparagus Mandarin Orange Salad! This refreshing recipe, originally submitted to the Stockton Asparagus Festival by a local TV station, is bursting with fresh flavors. The perfectly blanched asparagus spears are complemented by juicy mandarin oranges and sweet grapes, all tossed in your favorite dressing and topped with crunchy roasted almonds. A quick and easy meal prep or side dish that's sure to impress!

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Occasion Preparation Healthy 2 Desserts

Ambrosia Mold

This classic Ambrosia Mold recipe is a delightful Easter dessert, a creamy, dreamy concoction of pineapple, oranges, marshmallows, and coconut, all set in a vibrant Jell-O base. Grandma's secret recipe, perfected for a light and refreshing spring treat. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

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Time To Make Meat Asian Course

Asian Steamed Pork Meatballs Sesame Noodles Salad

Craving delicious Chinese takeout but hate the wait? This vibrant 3-course Asian meal is ready in under an hour! Enjoy juicy steamed pork meatballs (perfect as an appetizer or main course) served alongside refreshing chilled sesame noodles and a crunchy Asian salad bursting with napa cabbage, mandarin oranges, cucumber, red onion, and water chestnuts. A simple, flavorful dipping sauce unites all the elements. This recipe uses readily available ingredients and features a clever time-saving technique: while the meatballs steam, you'll whip up the salad and noodles! Get ready for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying Asian feast.

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Course Oranges 3 Steps Or Less Coconut

Ambrosia Tarts

Delight your taste buds with these No-Bake Ambrosia Tarts! Inspired by a Quick Cooking Magazine recipe (Aug 2001), this easy dessert is ready in minutes. A vibrant mix of tropical fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and creamy coconut makes for a refreshing and irresistible treat, perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or a simple weeknight indulgence.

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Preparation Easy Time To Make Vegetables

Almond Mandarin Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Almond Mandarin Salad, perfect for warm weather gatherings! This recipe features sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy almonds, crispy bacon, and a zesty honey-mustard dressing. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it's a crowd-pleasing side dish or light lunch that's sure to impress.

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4 Hours Or Less Main Ingredient 4 Hours Or Less Course

Pork Mandarin

Sweet and savory perfection! This Pork Mandarin Casserole combines tender pork with juicy mandarin oranges in a delightful, easy-to-make dish. A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Healthy 2 Low Calorie Preparation Healthy 2

Aunt Betty's Fruit Salad

A holiday tradition reborn! This vibrant fruit salad jello mold, a family favorite for years, is bursting with juicy fruits and a delightful jiggly texture. Aunt Betty's secret recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Prepare for rave reviews – once you make it, you'll be making it again and again!

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Condiments Etc Course Main Ingredient Preparation

Barbecue Roast Pork With Fruity Sweet And Sour Sauce

This incredibly easy recipe delivers a succulent barbecue roast pork, perfectly complemented by a vibrant, fruity sweet and sour sauce. The versatile sauce is delicious with chicken or fish, too! Imagine tender pork, coated in a luscious glaze, served alongside perfectly seasoned baby potatoes, all bathed in the rich pan juices. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, adaptable to your liking – try it with bananas for an extra tropical twist! Whether you include apple or not, the amazing flavor remains consistent.

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Cuisine Inexpensive Salads 30 Minutes Or Less

Pvw's Slap Me I M So Simple Asian Inspired Salad

This vibrant Asian-inspired salad is a quick, easy, and budget-friendly recipe perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner. Inspired by a cooking contest entry, this recipe uses inexpensive ramen noodles as a base, elevating them with a zesty homemade dressing and fresh vegetables. The optional 30-minute chill time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Dietary Time To Make Stir Fry 60 Minutes Or Less

Beef Mandarin And Bok Choy Stir Fry

This vibrant Beef Mandarin & Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful weeknight meal! Tender beef strips marinated in a zesty mandarin-soy sauce blend are stir-fried to perfection with crisp-tender bok choy, sweet mandarin segments, and vibrant snow peas. Low in fat and cholesterol, this recipe is a delicious and guilt-free way to enjoy Asian-inspired cuisine. Prepare to be amazed by the bright flavors and stunning presentation!

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Lunch Dietary Course Low In Something

Asian Salmon Roll Ups

Delight your taste buds with these Asian Salmon Roll Ups! A vibrant fusion of sweet mandarin oranges, creamy peanut butter, and savory salmon, all wrapped in soft tortillas for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This recipe puts a delicious Asian twist on a classic salmon salad, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

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Occasion Potluck Main Ingredient Course

Amazing 24 Hr Fruit Salad

This legendary fruit salad, a family favorite for generations, is unlike anything you've ever tasted! My grandmother's secret recipe, perfected over decades of potlucks, picnics, and holidays, delivers a surprisingly delicious combination of sweet, creamy, and crunchy flavors that will wow your family and friends. The unique blend of marshmallows, sour cream, and tropical fruits creates a magical overnight transformation. Easy to customize with your favorite fruits, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family classic. Try it once, and you'll be hooked!

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Salads 30 Minutes Or Less Preparation Course

Avocado Mandarin Tossed Salad

A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring creamy avocado, juicy mandarin oranges, crunchy toasted pecans, and crisp salad greens. The sweet and savory flavors are perfectly balanced, making it a delightful side dish, especially alongside grilled pork or chicken. This easy 30-minute recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a light lunch.

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Fruit Easy Fruit Egg Free

Banana Orange Salad

This refreshing Banana Orange Salad recipe is a quick and easy dessert that's perfect for a warm day! A delightful blend of sweet bananas and tangy mandarin oranges, tossed in a subtly spiced creamy dressing. Get ready for a taste sensation that's both simple and unforgettable. Ready in under 10 minutes!

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Tropical Fruit Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Amy's Fruited Chicken Salad

This vibrant and refreshing fruited chicken salad is the perfect light supper! Use leftover cooked chicken to create this delightful dish, inspired by my sister-in-law Amy's amazing recipe. Sweet pineapple, juicy grapes, and crunchy chow mein noodles complement the savory chicken for a flavor explosion that's both satisfying and healthy. Perfect for a potluck or a quick weeknight meal!

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Course Preparation Course Oranges

Apricot Orange Salad With Sour Cream Cream Cheese Topping

A vibrant and refreshing Apricot Orange Salad, bursting with juicy mandarin oranges, sweet apricots, and crunchy carrots! This make-ahead dessert features a delightful gelatin base, topped with a creamy, dreamy cinnamon-spiced sour cream and cream cheese mixture. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a light and elegant dessert. Prepare it in advance, and let it set for a show-stopping treat!

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Low In Something To Go Holiday Event Pasta Rice And Grains

Acini Di Pepe Ambrosia Salad

A nostalgic taste of childhood! This Acini di Pepe Ambrosia Salad recipe is a family favorite, bursting with sweet and tangy flavors. A delightful combination of creamy egg custard, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant tropical fruits like mandarin oranges and pineapple, topped with fluffy marshmallows and toasted coconut. Easy to make and perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dessert.

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