As the cooler months settle in, citrus season brings a burst of vibrant colors and flavors to brighten your day. At Mississippi Market Co-op, we have an array of seasonal citrus varieties for you to savor, from zesty tart kumquats to sweet mandarins and everything in between. Shopping seasonal produce ensures you enjoy these fruits when they’re at their peak of ripeness and flavor. Whether you’re seeking a classic orange or curious about trying something new, this guide will introduce you to some delightful citrus options to explore this season.
Navel Orange
Navel oranges are sweet and well-balanced flavor with just a hint of acidity. They have a bright, citrusy aroma and a juicy, seedless flesh that is both tender and easy to peel.
What They’re Good For
- Fresh Eating
- Juicing
- Salads and Dessert Toppings
Valencia Orange
Valencia oranges are sweet and slightly tangy flavor. They have a juicy flesh with a fine balance of sweetness and acidity.Unlike navel oranges, they may contain a few seeds.
What They’re Good For
- Juicing
- Marmalades and Sauces
- Salsas
Sumo Mandarin
Sumo mandarins are sweet with notes of honey, apricot, and tropical undertones. They are juicy, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a low acidity that enhances their natural sweetness.
What They’re Good For
- Fresh Eating
- Charcuterie and Cheese Boards
Kumquat
Kumquats have a bright, tangy flavor. Their thin, edible skin is sweet, while the juicy interior is sharply tart, creating a delightful balance of sweet and sour in every bite.
What They’re Good For
- Fresh Eating
- Cocktails and Infused Drinks
- Garnishes
Grapefruit
Grapefruit has a tangy flavor with a balance of sweetness and bitterness. Varieties range from tart and zesty (white grapefruit) to sweet and floral (ruby red and pink grapefruit).
What they’re good for
- Fresh Eating
- Salads
- Glazes for Meat and Fish
Pomelo
Pomelos offer a sweet and mild flavor with floral and honey-like undertones. Depending on the variety, the flesh ranges from pale yellow to pink and is surrounded by a thick, spongy rind.
What They’re Good For
- Fresh Eating
- Salads
- Beverages
Meyer Lemon
Meyer lemons are a hybrid of lemon and mandarin orange, offering a sweeter and less acidic flavor compared to traditional lemons. Their thin, fragrant skin is a vibrant golden-yellow and can range from tangy to mildly floral, with a juicy flesh that tastes like a cross between citrus and honey.
What They’re Good For
- Marinades
- Baking and Desserts
- Preserving
Blood Orange
Blood oranges have ruby-red flesh and complex, berry-like flavor. Sweeter and less acidic than standard oranges, their taste often includes hints of raspberry, cherry, or even subtle floral notes. Their thin, aromatic peel ranges from orange with a blush of red to deep crimson, depending on the variety.
What They’re Good For
- Fresh Eating
- Desserts
- Garnishes