Fruit, Citrus | Vegan Gluten Free Vegetarian Low Fat

Mandarin Segment

Citrus reticulata (for mandarin orange) Allergen-Free
Mandarin Segment

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rutaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round (canned); Winter (fresh)
  • Source Mandarin oranges

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

Individual, juicy segments of a mandarin orange, often canned in syrup or water, known for their sweet and tangy citrus flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Tangy, Citrusy
TextureJuicy, Tender, Soft
AromaZesty, Sweet, Citrus
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 100g (drained, ~1/2 cup)
Calories60 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.6 g
Total Carbohydrate15 g
Dietary Fiber1.5 g
Total Sugars12 g
Calcium20 mg
Iron0.2 mg
Potassium150 mg

Chef’s Secret

Lightly caramelize fresh mandarin segments in a pan with a touch of butter and brown sugar to enhance their sweetness and create a warm, tender topping for desserts.

Substitutions

Best Match

Orange Segments

1:1

Closest in flavor, juiciness, and appearance, though oranges are often larger and slightly less sweet.

Clementine Segments

1:1

Very similar in size and sweetness to mandarins, ideal when fresh.

Pineapple Chunks

1:1

Offers tropical sweetness and juiciness, but a different flavor profile and firmer texture.

Peach Slices (canned)

1:1

For a sweet, soft, and juicy fruit addition in desserts or salads, less tart.

Buying Guide

For fresh, choose firm, heavy fruits. For canned, opt for 'in water' or 'light syrup' to reduce sugar.

Flavor Pairings

Spinach Nuts Feta Cheese Chicken Duck Fish Ginger Star Anise Chocolate.