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Washington Navel
Description
The Washington Navel Orange is one of the most popular and widely cultivated varieties of oranges. Known for its seedless nature, sweet flavor, and ease of peeling, it has been a favorite for fresh eating and juice production for over a century. Originally discovered in Brazil in the early 19th century, the variety was introduced to the United States in the late 1800s and has since become a cornerstone of the citrus industry.
Characteristics
• Appearance: Medium to large-sized fruit with a bright orange, smooth, and slightly dimpled skin.
• Shape: Typically round to slightly oval with a small, navel-like formation at one end, which is a secondary fruit.
• Flesh: Juicy, seedless, and deep orange in color.
• Flavor: Sweet and tangy with low acidity.
Characteristics
• Appearance: Medium to large-sized fruit with a bright orange, smooth, and slightly dimpled skin.
• Shape: Typically round to slightly oval with a small, navel-like formation at one end, which is a secondary fruit.
• Flesh: Juicy, seedless, and deep orange in color.
• Flavor: Sweet and tangy with low acidity.
Nutritional Value (Per 100 grams of fresh fruit)
• Calories: 47
• Carbohydrates: 12 grams
• Sugars: ~9 grams
• Protein: 0.9 grams
• Fat: 0.1 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2.4 grams
Vitamins
• Vitamin C: 53.2 milligrams (89% of the Recommended Daily Intake)
• Vitamin A: 225 IU
• Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): 0.1 milligrams
• Folate (B9): 17 micrograms
Minerals
• Potassium: 181 milligrams
• Calcium: 40 milligrams
• Magnesium: 10 milligrams
Uses
• Fresh Eating: Ideal for snacking due to its seedless nature and easy peeling.
• Juice Production: Produces sweet and flavorful orange juice.
• Culinary Applications: Can be used in salads, desserts, marmalades, and savory dishes.
• Zest: The aromatic peel is often grated to enhance recipes with citrusy notes.
Growing Conditions
• Climate: Thrives in warm, subtropical to Mediterranean climates.
• Tree Attributes: Medium-sized evergreen tree with glossy leaves and fragrant white blossoms in spring.
• Care: Prefers well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering. Protect from frost, as Washington Navel oranges are sensitive to cold.
Health Benefits
1. Boosts Immune System
• High Vitamin C Content: Strengthens the immune system, helps combat infections, and promotes faster wound healing.
• Antioxidants: Protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
2. Promotes Heart Health
• Rich in Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure by balancing sodium levels.
• Flavonoids: Reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel function, lowering the risk of heart disease.
3. Aids Digestion
• High Fiber Content: Promotes regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and supports gut health.
• Natural Sugars: Provide energy without spiking blood sugar levels significantly.
4. Supports Skin Health
• Vitamin C: Aids collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging.
• Hydration: High water content keeps skin hydrated and glowing.
5. Improves Eye Health
• Vitamin A and Beta-Carotene: Supports good vision and prevents age-related macular degeneration.
6. May Reduce Risk of Chronic Diseases
• Antioxidants: Protect against chronic conditions like diabetes, cancer, and arthritis by neutralizing oxidative stress.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Reduce markers of chronic inflammation.
7. Assists in Weight Management
• Low Calories: A filling, nutrient-dense snack for those looking to manage their weight.
• Natural Sugars and Fiber: Satisfy sweet cravings while keeping you full longer.
8. Supports Bone Health
• Calcium and Magnesium: Essential for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.
9. Enhances Mental Well-being
• B Vitamins (e.g., Folate): Support brain function, mood regulation, and memory.
• Antioxidants: May reduce oxidative stress in the brain, linked to improved cognitive health.
10. May Prevent Kidney Stones
• Citrate Content: Helps prevent the formation of calcium oxalate stones in the kidneys.
Cara-Cara Navel
Description
The Cara Cara Navel Orange is a distinctive and flavorful variety of navel orange, known for its vibrant pinkish-red flesh and sweet, slightly tangy flavor. It is a natural mutation of the Washington Navel orange and was first discovered in Venezuela in the mid-20th century. Its unique flavor and striking color make it a favorite among citrus lovers.
Characteristics
• Appearance: Medium-sized fruit with a bright orange, smooth, and slightly dimpled peel.
• Flesh: Rich pink to salmon-colored, due to higher levels of lycopene (a natural antioxidant).
• Flavor: Sweet with low acidity, offering subtle notes of cherry, berry, and rose, giving it a complex and unique taste.
• Seedlessness: Like other navel oranges, Cara Cara oranges are seedless.
Season
• The Cara Cara Navel Orange is typically harvested from December through April, making it a winter favorite.
Uses
• Fresh Eating: Enjoyed as a refreshing snack due to its sweetness and seedless nature.
• Juice: Produces a vibrant, sweet juice with a hint of berry flavor.
• Culinary: Adds a burst of color and flavor to salads, desserts, cocktails, and marinades.
• Garnish: The vibrant flesh makes it an appealing garnish for both sweet and savory dishes.
Nutrition
Nutritional Value (Per 100 grams of fresh fruit)
• Calories: 50
• Carbohydrates: 13 grams
• Sugars: ~9 grams
• Protein: 0.9 grams
• Fat: 0.1 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2 grams
Vitamins
• Vitamin C: 59 milligrams (98% of the Recommended Daily Intake)
• Vitamin A: 200 IU
• Folate (B9): 30 micrograms (8% of the RDI)
• Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): 0.09 milligrams
Minerals
• Potassium: 170 milligrams
• Calcium: 35 milligrams
• Magnesium: 10 milligrams
Health Benefits
• Rich in Antioxidants: High levels of vitamin C and lycopene help combat oxidative stress and support immune health.
• Digestive Health: Fiber promotes a healthy digestive system.
• Low Calorie: Makes for a nutritious and guilt-free snack.
Growing Conditions
• Climate: Thrives in warm, subtropical to Mediterranean climates.
• Tree Attributes: Medium-sized evergreen tree with fragrant white blossoms in spring.
• Care: Requires well-drained soil, full sun, and moderate watering. Protect from frost as Cara Cara trees are sensitive to cold.
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