Carolyn shares her top three February citrus fruits in this video (or read her notes, below).
Triple Cross Tangerines from Buck Brand Citrus
These tangerines are a cross between a Temple orange, a Dancy mandarin, and an Encore mandarin, hence the name Triple Cross. They are a very large, seedless tangerine with a deep orange color. The flavor on these is outstanding. Sweet and juicy, but with just the right amount of tartness to make the flavor pop.
Buck Brand Citrus is a unique company, growing only specialty citrus fruits like Buddha’s Hand, Palestinian lemons, and giant Pommelos. They also do not wax their fruit, but gently brush it to polish the fruit’s own natural wax, resulting in fruit that tastes like it was just picked right from the tree.
Biodynamic Navel Oranges from Marian Farms
Navel oranges are viewed as a year-round staple by some, but this time of year you can find some truly delicious tasting fruit. These heirloom Washington navel oranges are sweet, juicy, and not too tart, as opposed to the bland oranges you’ll get some times of the year. They’re also usually a better price that some of the new fancy mandarin varieties, but not quite as easy to peel.
Marian Farms is a biodynamic orchard in Fresno, California. We have been buying their delicious Thompson grapes for well over a decade now, and have recently added their Thompson raisins and citrus. You won’t find their fruit in any of the big box stores, it is a product line unique to the co-op!
Texas Rio Star Red Grapefruit
Grapefruit is another citrus fruit you can get year round, but the best of them all is only available from December through March, the Texas Rio Star. This is the only time of year I will eat grapefruit! This variety is sweet for a grapefruit—but it’s still a grapefruit, remember! They are famous for their large size, sweet flavor, and deep red flesh. Try them broiled for a special dessert or breakfast!