Clementine vs. Mandarin: What are the key differences? If you're not too careful, you may think that clementines vs. mandarins are the same in your grocery store. They look nearly identical. They also have a similar taste. But they are significantly different.
For example, mandarins are abundant in China, the United States, and Europe. Their origins come from China as far back as the 13th century. The clementine also dates back to China. However, it's uncertain how far back it goes. Algerian monk Frère Clément gave clementines their name in 1902 when he first discovered this fruit. Throughout the years, these fruits have become some of the most popular in grocery stores. However, they are also different and can be used in different recipes.
There is so much to know about clementines and mandarines and how they are different when it comes to taste, texture, and flavor. This guide looks at how they grow and are unique from each other.
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Clementine vs Mandarin: The Key Differences In Taste and Texture
When it comes to seeds, mandarins are both seeded and seedless varieties. However, when you get clementines, they are always seedless. Before you think swallowing Mandarin seeds is dangerous, they are not dangerous at all. It passes through your digestive system without doing any harm. While clementines are a variety of mandarines, they are different in taste, even if they both taste sweet and similar.
Another fun fact about mandarines is that they are not a part of the orange family, which some people may believe. They are part of the tangerine family. Conversely, clementines are sometimes called zipper oranges because they are easier to peel than oranges. Clementines are sometimes called Christmas oranges because they are in season from November through January. Mandarin season is from November through April.
When it comes to taste, they are both some of the sweetest fruits you can enjoy. When compared to oranges, they are also less acidic than oranges. Clementines are usually a bit sweeter than mandarins. To be more specific, mandarins are often considered more acidic. They are more aromatic but can sometimes be more tart. On the other hand, clementines are always sweet without any of the tartness. They are also less aromatic.
The Nutritional Value of a Clementine vs. a Mandarin
As fruits, clementines and mandarins usually have the best nutritional value. You can eat as many as you like throughout the day to pack a nutritional punch.
For example, they are both rich in vitamin C. However, clementines have slightly more vitamin C, providing up to 60% of the daily dose of Vitamin C, while mandarins provide around 30%. Eating either of these fruits also offers an abundance of folate and potassium. Folate is important for healthy cell growth and function, while potassium is good for keeping normal fluid levels inside our cells.
You'll also find that clementines and mandarins have fiber, which is good for your digestive system, and antioxidants that improve your immune system.
Here's a list of the best benefits of eating mandarins and clementines:
- Improved digestive system
- High levels of vitamin C
- Reduced inflammation
- Improve your nervous system
You can also use the flowers of either mandarins or clementines to make tea. When you seep the flowers to make tea, you'll reap the benefits of better digestion and sleep.
They must have three to four weeks of shelf life to get the most out of either fruit. Eating them before they dry up can help you get the most benefits.
- 4-serving meals starting at $3.77 per serving (up to 25% cheaper than HelloFresh).
- Incredible variety with 10+ weekly meal options, delivered directly to you.
- Easy to prepare meals ready in 30-minutes or less.
Different Things to Make With Either Clementine or Mandarin
Whether you prefer clementine or mandarin, you'll discover that either fruit is good for making unique things. While they are perfect by themselves, they are also some of the most delicious fruits used to make bread, desserts, or other food.
Here are some of the most popular things you can make with mandarins:
- Mandarin Smoothie
- Mandarin Salsa
- Mandarin Bread
- Mandarin Orange Popsicles
- Mandarin Prosciutto Bruschetta
Here are some of the most popular things you can make with clementines:
- Clementine Smoothie
- Clementine Jam
- Clementine Bread
- Clementine Cake Orange Popsicles
- Clementine Sugar Cookies
What's the Better Fruit?
If you're trying to decide between mandarin and clementine, you'll find it difficult to make because they are both some of the most divine fruits. They are delicious even if they are slightly difference. This guide shows you how different they are regarding taste, texture, and nutrition.
If you're trying to decide which one to get, the best thing to do is try both. They both offer some of the best nutrition of any fruit. They are also a snackable fruit that you can enjoy throughout the day.