A simple guide to Mandarin Oranges

A simple guide to Mandarin Oranges

Mandarin oranges hold a special place in Lunar New Year celebrations. They are iconic in the East, with evidence suggesting their cultivation in China and other parts of Asia for centuries.

Why are they called Mandarin Oranges?

Interestingly, the name can be traced back to Portugal. The term "Mandarin" originates from the Portuguese word mandarim, meaning minister. This term was often used to describe Chinese imperial officials during the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

When these oranges were introduced to the West by China in the 19th century, the connection to Chinese imperial culture led to their naming as "Mandarin oranges."

Since their journey began in 1805, Mandarin oranges have traveled far and wide. Within less than a century, they were cultivated globally, giving rise to many new varieties and solidifying their place in the world of citrus fruits.

The significance.

Symbolizing prosperity and good fortune (吉), mandarin oranges are an integral part of Lunar New Year traditions. They are exchanged during home visits as a gesture of respect, embodying customs that have been passed down for generations. The size of the mandarin oranges also carries symbolic weight—larger fruits signify greater blessings for the recipient.

While all mandarin oranges are associated with good fortune, one can still be spoilt for choices with a wide variety to choose from, here’s a closer look at the more popular types of mandarin oranges in Singapore and their difference. 

The popular ones from China. 

1. Yong Chun Honey Lukans

extra large honey lukan mandarin oranges

Originating from Yongchun County in Fujian, China, are highly regarded for their vibrant golden hue, smooth skin, and sweet-tangy flavor. The most traditional mandarin oranges for the Lunar New Year.

Easy to peel, though with seeds, they are juicy and sweet in taste. 

Sweetness level: 4/5
Easy to peel: Yes 
Seeds: Yes

Storage: Keep dry in the individual bag(s) and store in chiller

2. Jiaokan [Swatow]

swatow jiaokan

From Swatow region in Guangdong, China, they are firmer with a tang, not as sweet as the other varieties, however, they made up to it by being the most hardy mandarin orange, with a much longer shelf life. 

Good for persons who prefers tang over sweetness. 

Sweetness level: 2.5/5
Easy to peel: No
Seeds: Yes

Storage: Ambient / Chiller

3. Aiyuan / Hong Mei Ren [Zhejiang Ningbo]

Premium Hong Mei ren or Ehime mandarin oranges

Originating from Japan and known as 爱媛 (Ehime), or "Jelly Orange," Premium Aiyuan is celebrated for its juicy, sweet flavor with a slight tang that perfectly balances its taste profile.

For the past two decades, it has been cultivated in Zhejiang Ningbo Xiangshan (浙江宁波象山), China. This region, with its expansive mountainous terrain and an altitude of 810.8 meters, provides an ideal environment for growing this premium variety.

When you hold a Premium Aiyuan orange, you’ll notice its solid weight and density—signs of its exceptional juiciness. However, enjoy with caution! The plump, juicy pulps are prone to bursting, making it a delightfully messy experience.

For the best experience, slice it in half and savor it with a spoon.

Sweetness level: 4/5
Easy to peel:
No 
Seeds:
No (or with tiny seeds) 

Storage:
Keep dry in the bag and store in chiller

3. Baba Gan [Sichuan Pujiang] 


Another newer variety originated from Japan with the name Chunjian 春见, cultivated in China since 1996.

In China, it is named as "耙耙柑" pa2pa2 gan1

The word 耙 means soft in Sichuan, which is very descriptive of it (软耙耙). There is a space between the rind and pulp, making it very soft to touch, not to be mistaken as spoilage, it is just how they are. 

They are favoured for their larger size, however they may get a little squished in the box because of the space between the peel and pulp. 

The pulps are caviar like, very well defined, every bite is packed with juice. 

Sweetness level: 4/5
Easy to peel:
Yes
Seeds:
No (or with tiny seeds) 

Storage:
Keep dry in the bag and store in chiller

In a gist. 

By the end of the day, each variety caters to different taste preferences, mandarin oranges are best served when chilled. At a lower temperature, it does elevate the sweetness level. Try it at home and taste the difference. 

Reducing Wastage

Don’t discard those peels! After brushing and cleaning them thoroughly, dry them to use as toppings for salads and desserts, as an ingredient in marmalades or candied oranges, or even as a natural cleaning solution.

If you find yourself with an abundance of oranges, peel and freeze them to extend their shelf life. Get creative with recipes or whip up a refreshing mandarin orange sorbet to enjoy during the season.

Alright, it's time to enjoy the beautiful citrus and the Lunar New Year. Here's wishing you a very happy lunar new year with an abundance of prosperity, good health and happiness in the year of the Ssssnake! 新年快樂,萬事順心!

Stay tuned for more on reducing wastage. 
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