Kinnow To Mudkhed: The Top 5 Orange Varieties Of India

Oranges are among the world's most beloved and widely consumed fruits. Known for their vibrant orange hue and deliciously sweet, tangy flavour, oranges have become a staple in diets across the globe. These versatile fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C, providing a significant boost to the immune system and promoting overall health.

Their juicy, succulent flesh can be enjoyed fresh as a refreshing snack, squeezed into zesty juices, or incorporated into a variety of culinary dishes, from salads to desserts. Oranges also offer dietary fibre, antioxidants, and essential minerals, making them not only a delightful treat but also a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. 

Also Read: The Power of Vitamin C: Non-Citrus Sources For A Healthier You

India is one of the world's leading producers of oranges, with a substantial and diverse production spread across various regions of the country. The country's favourable climate, which includes both tropical and subtropical regions, provides a conducive environment for orange cultivation. India's orange production not only caters to domestic consumption but also contributes significantly to exports, with oranges finding their way to international markets. This thriving orange industry plays a vital role in providing employment opportunities to countless farmers and contributing to the nation's agricultural and economic growth. 

The nation's orange cultivation primarily centres around states like Maharashtra, Nagaland, Punjab, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh, among others. Nagpur, in particular, is renowned for its Nagpur oranges, which are celebrated for their sweet and tangy flavour. In India, there are several types of oranges grown, each with its own unique flavour, appearance, and characteristics.

Here are eight types of oranges that are commonly found in India:

Nagpur Santra 

Nagpur Orange, often referred to as the "King of Oranges," is a highly prized citrus fruit variety that hails from the city of Nagpur in Maharashtra, India. Renowned for their exceptional sweetness, rich flavour, and vibrant orange colour, Nagpur oranges are a hallmark of quality and taste. They are celebrated for their juicy, seedless pulp and thin, easy-to-peel skin, which makes them a convenient and delightful snack.

The unique combination of the region's soil, climate, and expertise in cultivation imparts a distinctive character to Nagpur oranges, setting them apart as a premium citrus fruit. These oranges are not only savoured for their delectable taste but also for their high vitamin C content and numerous health benefits. They have earned a special place in Indian cuisine and are a source of pride for the Nagpur region, where they are a symbol of agricultural excellence. 

Kinnow Orange  

Kinnow orange is a high-yielding Mandarin hybrid variety resulting from a cross between a mandarin and a sweet orange. This is predominantly grown in the northern states of Punjab and Haryana, where the cool climate during the winters is ideal for its cultivation. Kinnow oranges are known for their sweet, tangy, and refreshing flavour, making them a favourite choice for fresh consumption and juicing.

They have a bright orange, slightly pebbled skin and are relatively easy to peel, which adds to their appeal. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, Kinnow oranges not only provide a burst of taste but also offer numerous health benefits. With their high yield and resilience to various environmental conditions, Kinnow oranges have become an essential part of India's citrus fruit industry, contributing significantly to both domestic consumption and export markets. 

Khasi Blood Orange  

Khasi blood orange is a citrus variety native to the northeastern region of India, particularly Meghalaya. This unique orange stands out for its striking deep red or maroon flesh, which sets it apart from conventional oranges. Khasi blood oranges are prized for their sweet and tangy flavour profile with rich undertones, making them a memorable culinary experience.

They are typically enjoyed fresh or used for making juices, adding a burst of vibrant color and a complex, fruity taste to beverages and dishes. Besides their culinary appeal, Khasi Blood Oranges are also appreciated for their potential health benefits and are a source of pride for the Meghalaya region, where they thrive in the serene and lush hillside landscapes. 

Coorg Orange  

Coorg orange, also known as Coorg Mandarin, is a citrus fruit variety cultivated in the picturesque Coorg or Kodagu region of Karnataka, India. These small to medium-sized oranges are celebrated for their delightful aroma and exceptional sweetness, making them a coveted treat for fruit enthusiasts.

Coorg oranges have a thin, easily removable skin and are prized for their juicy, tender flesh. They are commonly used to make marmalades and preserves, thanks to their aromatic qualities. The Coorg region's unique climate, with its misty hills and lush greenery, contributes to the distinct flavour profile of these oranges, adding to their appeal.  

Mudkhed Orange  

Mudkhed Orange is a variety cultivated in the region of Mudkhed in the state of Maharashtra, India. These oranges are esteemed for their sweet and tangy flavour, which is a result of the unique soil and climatic conditions of the area. Mudkhed oranges are typically medium-sized and have a bright orange hue, making them visually appealing.

They are known for their juicy, succulent flesh and are often enjoyed fresh as a refreshing snack or used to make flavourful juices. These oranges play a significant role in supporting the local economy and agriculture in the Mudkhed region, and their delightful taste has made them a favourite among citrus fruit enthusiasts in India. 

Oranges, while beloved for their sweet and tangy taste and their abundance of vitamin C, are not as commonly used in food recipes as other fruits in many culinary traditions. Their tartness and distinctive flavour can sometimes be challenging to integrate seamlessly into savoury dishes. However, oranges do find their place in various desserts, salad dressings, and beverages, where their natural sweetness and citrusy zing shine. So, here’s a dessert recipe made with oranges:

Recipe for Orange and Raisin Muffins 

Ingredients:   

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk (you can use dairy-free milk for a vegan version)
• 1/4 cup of orange juice
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

 Method:  

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly. 
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. 
• Stir in the milk, orange juice, and vanilla extract. 
• In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. 
• Fold in the orange zest and raisins. 
• Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. 
• Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of a muffin comes out clean. 
• Remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.