Question: A tangelo is a cross between a tangerine and what other fruit?
Show answer
Grapefruit.
A tangelo is a hybrid fruit, created by crossing a tangerine (a type of mandarin orange) with a pomelo or a grapefruit. The tangelo inherits the best qualities of its parent fruits, combining the sweet and tangy flavor of the tangerine with the larger size and juiciness of the pomelo or grapefruit. This unique blend makes tangelos a popular citrus fruit, enjoyed for their taste as well as their nutritional benefits.
The name “tangelo” is a portmanteau of “tangerine” and “pomelo” (or grapefruit), reflecting its hybrid origins. Tangelos are characterized by their distinctive bell shape, which is more pronounced than in tangerines, and they often have a slightly nubby top where the stem attaches, a trait inherited from the pomelo or grapefruit. The skin of the tangelo is relatively thin and easy to peel, similar to that of a tangerine, making them convenient for snacking and for use in recipes.
Tangelos are typically seedless or have very few seeds, another desirable trait for consumers. They are rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and other essential nutrients, making them a healthy addition to the diet. The fruit’s juicy, flavorful flesh can range in color from deep orange to red, depending on the specific variety and its parentage.
There are several varieties of tangelos, each with unique characteristics. One of the most well-known varieties is the Minneola tangelo, which is a cross between the Duncan grapefruit and the Dancy tangerine. The Minneola is particularly prized for its sweet and tangy flavor, large size, and minimal seed content.
Tangelos are versatile fruits that can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used in a variety of culinary dishes. Their refreshing taste makes them a popular choice for salads, desserts, marinades, and beverages. The creation of the tangelo is a testament to the ingenuity of agricultural practices and the ongoing quest to develop new and improved fruit varieties that offer the best traits of their parent species.
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