Chocolate Navel Orange: From being an almost forgotten variety in Spain to being recovered as a gourmet fruit
From the navel orange family, the Chocolate Navel Orange stands as a variety that has conquered palates with its exquisite flavor and distinctive aroma.
Result of a natural mutation of orange trees, it has been recovered by some farmers in the Mediterranean region in the Valencian Community, in the town of Picassent (L’Horta Sur) and has made a place for itself among the most demanding palates.
The Chocolate Navel Orange, scientifically called Sinensis Citrus, stands out for its peculiar brown color resulting from the permanence of its green and orange pigments once ripe, in addition to a high degree of sweetness, reaching 12 brix, which leads it to be considered the sweetest of the navels, with a low acidity flavor. Among other characteristics worth highlighting is the high percentage of juice, its fine, shiny, soft and grainy skin, which gives way to easy peeling, from which a combined aroma of fruity and floral notes is released. Its size is medium to large within the Navel family, with a uniform rounded shape.
The perfect balance between acidity and sweetness makes this orange a versatile ingredient for a wide range of culinary preparations.
From jams and desserts to salad dressings and juice, Navel Chocolate Orange provides a distinctive touch that elevates any dish to another gastronomic level, as well as its natural consumption, the fruit itself, is already a pleasure.
Currently it is not easy to find in the local market, since it is grown only by a few Valencian farmers, who are betting on this ancient variety for export. But it has made a place in the palates of some countries worldwide, Holland was the first to import it in 2021 and expand it to some countries in Europe. It is currently considered a highly profitable product, due to its high price, driven by product scarcity, in addition to its low production costs compared to other citrus fruits affected by more pests, giving it a greater profit margin.
Orange also offers a number of health benefits. Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants and fiber, this fruit not only delights the palate, but also contributes to general well-being. Vitamin C strengthens the immune system, antioxidants fight free radicals and fiber promotes digestion, making Chocolate Navel Orange a delicious and nutritious option.
Chocolate Navel Orange is not only a delight for the senses, but also a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. Available in the winter season and early spring.
Its fascinating origin, its peculiar characteristics and its health benefits make it a fruit that will give that cheerful and tasty touch to our winter menu.
Autor: Selene.
