Fruit | Vegan Gluten Free Low Calorie

Mandarin Orange Section

Citrus reticulata Allergen-Free
Mandarin Orange Section

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rutaceae
  • Primary Cuisine East Asian (origin), Global (usage)
  • Seasonality Winter (fresh), Year-Round (canned)
  • Source Mandarin Orange Tree

The Forktionary Angle

"The Bright & Zesty Garnish"

Definition

Individual segments of the sweet, easy-to-peel mandarin orange, often canned in light syrup for convenience and year-round availability.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Tart, Citrusy
TextureTender, Juicy, Pulpy (subtle)
AromaCitrusy, Floral, Sweet
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Global Production (Citrus)

>100 million tons annually

Refrigerated Storage (Fresh)

1-2 weeks

Vitamin C Content

~26mg per 100g

Nutrition Facts

Per 120g (1/2 cup drained)
Calories60 kcal
Total Fat0.1g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0.5g
Total Carbohydrate15g
Dietary Fiber1g
Total Sugars13g
Calcium20mg
Iron0.1mg
Potassium80mg

Chef’s Secret

To make a quick glaze for poultry or fish, reduce the syrup from canned mandarin oranges with a splash of soy sauce or ginger.

Substitutions

Best Match

Clementine Segments (fresh)

1:1

Very similar sweet-tart flavor and easy-to-separate segments, ideal for fresh applications.

Orange Segments (fresh)

1:1

Slightly larger, sometimes less sweet, but offers a similar citrus burst.

Grapefruit Segments (fresh)

1:1

More tart and slightly bitter, but provides juicy citrus flavor for a different profile.

Canned Peach Slices

1:1

Offers a sweet, juicy fruit in syrup for desserts or salads, but lacks citrus flavor.

Buying Guide

For canned, choose mandarins in light syrup or juice, not heavy syrup. For fresh, select firm, heavy fruits with bright skin.

Flavor Pairings

Salads (spinach chicken) Asian dishes Yogurt Desserts Glazes for poultry

Recipes Using Mandarin Orange Section

Asparagus Cashew Stir Fry image 129
Low In Something Vegetables Time To Make 15 Minutes Or Less

Asparagus Cashew Stir Fry

This vibrant Asparagus Cashew Stir-Fry is a delicious and healthy weeknight meal ready in under 15 minutes! Tender asparagus spears meet crunchy cashews in a savory sauce, all served over fluffy rice. A perfect blend of textures and flavors that will quickly become a family favorite. #asparagus #cashew #stirfry #weeknightdinner #easyrecipe #healthyrecipe #asianinspired

See Complete Recipe