Tangerines are a very popular citrus fruit that is usually in season from October to April. Tangerines are related to Mandarin oranges and like their Mandarin orange cousins tangerines are small with loose pebbly skin and have a deep orange color and very sweet taste.

Tangerines are often preferred to oranges, especially by kids.  Tangerines are often called the perfect kid friendly snack because they are easy to peel and have a sweet taste that kids love. They are also small enough to fit easily into a child's hand.

Tangerines, like oranges, grapefruits and other citrus fruits can be used in many different ways when cooking to add a little zing to otherwise bland dishes.  Tangerines can be used in everything from salads to desserts and frozen drinks or alcoholic drinks to add sweetness and a light citrus taste that is a little bit out of the ordinary.  The next time you want to surprise your guests with something a little different add tangerine juice instead of water to your favorite baking recipes. Breads, muffins, cakes, and cookies baked using tangerine juice also have an extra kick of healthy vitamin C, vitamin A, and minerals that the body needs to stay healthy.  Here are some fun ways to use tangerines in everyday cooking:

Tangerine preserves - Tangerine preserves, or a mixture of Honeybell tangelo and tangerine preserves will give you the delicious, light, refreshing taste of citrus all year round.  Use the preserves on biscuits or cakes, pour over ice cream or cobbler, or use on  your favorite homemade bread with butter and you'll be amazed at how delicious your baked goods become.

Tangerine salads - It can be tough to eat green salads through the winter even though salads are very healthy.  Peel a tangerine and toss the sections into your favorite Arugula salad and the splash of citrus flavor will make a normally dull salad a lot more appealing.  Tangerine zest can also be added to a light vinaigrette dressing to wake up the taste of the dressing.

Tangerine drinks - Use tangerine juice instead of water in smoothies if you want to create tangy citrus smoothies instead of traditional berry smoothies.  Banana and tangerine smoothies are a nice change from the berry smoothies that are very common for breakfasts and snacks.  During the holidays mix tangerine juice and seltzer into mixed drinks for a light but sweet addition to mixed drinks that are made from gin or vodka.