Buzz
Citrus season is here, and you might have an abundance of tangelos, clementines, or navel oranges. If you're wondering how to use your surplus without a specific recipe, this guide from Cook’s Illustrated will show you how to substitute with what you already have.
As highlighted by Cook’s Illustrated, swapping citrus fruits will alter the flavor slightly, but this can be a delightful twist. To modify the zest, juice, or segments in any recipe, use the ratios provided below and make adjustments as necessary.
Navel Orange: 1 1/2 tbs zest, 1/2 cup juice, 3/4 cup segments
Tangelo: 1 tbs zest, 3/4 cup juice, 3/4 cup segments
Tangerine: 1 tsp zest, 1/4 cup juice, 3/4 cup segments
Clementine: 1 tsp zest, 2 tbs juice, 1/2 cup segments
For instance, if a recipe requires the zest of one tangelo but you only have clementines, you’ll need to zest three clementines to achieve the same citrus intensity. These substitutions are versatile and work for most recipes, though Cook’s Illustrated advises briefly draining tangelo segments if their juiciness could affect the dish’s consistency.
Image captured by Rob Bertholf.
