With the onset of winter, the local market is flooding with colourful fruits and vegetables. It is that time of the year when we make the best use of these food items as we come up with a myriad of different delicious recipes. Among the vegetables, leafy greens rule the category; however, among the fruits, the citrus ones are our beloved.
While talking about fruits, oranges dominate the local markets. Apart from their tangy and citrusy taste, oranges provide a whole lot of nutritional value. Packed with immune-boosting vitamin C, a single orange can provide more than the recommended daily intake of this essential nutrient.
Additionally, oranges contain fibre, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management. The fruit is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids, which contribute to overall well-being by fighting free radicals in the body. Oranges also offer a dose of potassium, supporting heart health and helping regulate blood pressure. With a low-calorie count and a refreshing taste, incorporating oranges into your diet not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body with a variety of essential nutrients.
If you’re bored of having oranges as a fruit alone, you can try out different recipes. There are a multitude of orange delicacies that you can relish. In this article, we have listed some of them. Take a look at them and enjoy them this winter.
- Komola Kheer
Also known as orange pudding, Komola Kheer is a delightful and unique dessert that combines the citrusy goodness of oranges with the richness of traditional kheer. This indulgent treat is made by simmering grated oranges and milk, creating a creamy and fragrant concoction. The natural sweetness of oranges complements the creamy texture of the kheer, offering a burst of freshness in every spoonful. It is often flavoured with cardamom and garnished with chopped nuts.
- Orange Cake
It is a delightful and citrus-infused confection that effortlessly blends the sweetness of cake with the tangy brightness of oranges. The zesty aroma of fresh orange zest and the juice lend a refreshing twist to the traditional cake experience. The moist and tender crumb of the cake, coupled with the citrusy burst in every bite, makes it a favourite among dessert enthusiasts. Whether glazed with a luscious orange icing or served simply dusted with powdered sugar, this cake is a symphony of flavours that is both comforting and invigorating.
- Orange Besan Barfi
This barfi is a delightful fusion of traditional Indian sweets and the vibrant flavour of oranges. This unique treat is crafted by combining besan (gram flour) and ghee with the citrusy goodness of fresh orange juice and zest. The result is a sweet and tangy barfi that boasts a distinctive texture and a burst of flavours. The nutty aroma of roasted besan perfectly complements the citrusy notes of oranges, creating a harmonious balance in each bite.
- Orange Strawberry Falooda
This is a tantalising twist on the classic dessert, combining the refreshing essence of oranges with the sweet allure of strawberries. It is crafted with a delightful concoction of orange and strawberry syrup, creating a visual appeal. The addition of chewy falooda noodles, sweet basil seeds, and creamy kulfi or ice cream adds texture and richness to the dessert. The citrusy zing of oranges intertwines seamlessly with the juicy sweetness of strawberries, which results in a harmonious blend that tingles our taste buds. Garnished with chopped nuts and fresh fruits, orange strawberry falooda is not only a treat for the senses but also a visually stunning dessert.
- Katla Komola
It is a delightful Bengali fish curry that brings together the richness of Katla fish with the tangy zest of oranges. The dish is a perfect marriage of flavors, where the natural sweetness of the fish is complemented by the citrusy notes of fresh orange juice. Typically, the fish is marinated in a blend of spices and then simmered in a luscious curry made with orange puree, creating a symphony of tastes.
- Orange Halwa
This dessert elevates the classic halwa experience with the citrusy flavours of oranges. This sweet treat is made by simmering semolina (sooji) in a fragrant concoction of fresh orange juice, zest, and sugar until it reaches a rich and velvety consistency. The vibrant citrus notes not only add a burst of freshness but also balance the sweetness of the halwa, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. It is garnished with chopped nuts and sometimes flavoured with cardamom.
- Orange Peel Kuzhambu
This tangy and aromatic kuzhambu is prepared by sautéing dried and powdered orange peels with a medley of spices, tamarind, and other traditional ingredients. The result is a rich and complex gravy that tantalises the taste buds with its unique combination of citrusy zest and savoury spices. The orange peel not only imparts a distinctive flavour but also adds a subtle bitterness, creating a well-balanced and nuanced dish. This dish perfectly pairs with ste