How to pick perfect seedless tangerines this winter

Tangerines are among the fruits that frequently grace our tables during the autumn and winter months. Their juicy flesh and sweet taste evoke the warmth of the family hearth. However, selecting the perfect tangerines – sweet and seedless – can be tricky. How do you recognise them? Simply focus on a few key characteristics to enjoy fruits with excellent flavour.

Want to savour the sweet taste of tangerines without dealing with seeds? It's easier than you think! The key is to examine the skin. If it doesn't cling tightly to the flesh and peels away smoothly, it indicates that you won't find any seeds inside. This simple trick allows you to relish the flavour without any surprises.

Besides being seedless, it is worth considering other factors that indicate the quality of tangerines:

• colour: An intense, orange colour signifies that the fruits are ripe and sweet. Avoid tangerines with green spots, as these may suggest that the fruits are not fully ripe.
• stem area: Examine the spot where the stem was attached. If it is white or creamy, it means the fruits were picked recently. Brown or bluish discoloration suggests the tangerines are starting to spoil.
• firmness: A tangerine should be slightly springy but not overly firm. Fruits that are too soft may be overripe.
• scent: Fresh tangerines have a strong, sweet aroma. If the fruits lack fragrance, they may not be fresh.

Not all tangerines are the same. In shops, we find many different varieties, including several particularly popular ones characterised by a sweet taste and absence of seeds:

• clementines: These are some of the most well-known seedless tangerines. They feature an intense orange hue and sweet taste.
• satsumas: Known for being easy to peel, they possess sweet and delicate flesh.
• tangerines: Similar to clementines but slightly smaller.

Tangerines are not just a delicious treat but also a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. Regular consumption of these fruits offers numerous benefits for our health:

• boosts immunity: Thanks to their high vitamin C content, tangerines help combat infections and strengthen the immune system.
• supports heart health: The flavonoids in tangerines, such as nobiletin, help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• delays ageing: Vitamin C and other antioxidants found in tangerines help combat free radicals and slow down the ageing process.
• improves vision: Vitamin A in tangerines is essential for proper eye function.
• supports brain function: Magnesium in tangerines enhances brain and nervous system function.

Choosing the right tangerines is straightforward if you follow our advice. By paying attention to the appearance, scent, and texture of the fruits, you'll easily find sweet and juicy seedless tangerines. Remember, tangerines are not only a delicious treat but also a healthy addition to your diet.