Mandarins are a class of oranges that are flatter on both ends, have a mild flavour and are very easy to peel. Tangerines and clementines are mandarins. Mandarins are usually available from November until March.
Clementines are the smallest member of the mandarin family and are seedless. The peel is smooth, glossy and deep orange. They are available from November until April.
Tangerines are light orange in colour and are slightly tart. The Dancy tangerine is the one we think of as the Christmas orange. Tangerines don?t keep very well so need refrigerating. If you have a cold these are a good choice because they contain synephrine which is a decongestant. They are available from November to January.
Source: Chatelaine magazine, December 2002.
