When you think of oranges I’m sure you are thinking you have to wait until summer. But did you know that the Cara Cara navel oranges are in season during the winter? These oranges are an early to mid season fruits, are a special color inside and are ready for your enjoyment from December through April.
Cara Cara navel oranges were discovered in 1976 in Cara Cara, Venezuela and are a cross between the Washington and Brazilian Bahia navel oranges. These beauties are orange on the outside and PINK, yes pink, on the inside. This mid sized fruit is sweet, seedless and have a little acidity to them. One nice thing about these oranges is that they have very little pith (the spongy white tissue lining of most citrus fruits) making it very easy to peel. It’s distinct taste is reminiscent to roses, cherries and even raspberries. These oranges are also a superfood which are high in antioxidants, only 80 calories, 19 grams of carbs and 3 grams of fiber, as well as a good source of vitamin A and C.
Cara Caras are now grown successfully in California, and you can find them locally at all four of our farmers markets. Find them at the stands of Ken's Top Notch, Timber Canyon Ranch and Espinoza Farm for the next two months or so. Everyone will love eating these sweet treats. Great for your little ones because Cara Caras have no seeds and are easy to peel. You can also juice them, add them to a recipe or just devour them as a snack. Just remember, you can never judge an orange by it's cover.