Exploring the Tangelo: A Guide to Crafting Your Own Citrus Extract
The exotic world of citrus fruits is more diverse than one might think. A wonderful example is the Tangelo, a unique hybrid fruit brimming with exciting flavors. In this guide, we're exploring Tangelos, their characteristic features, and how to turn them into a versatile kitchen extract using 200 proof food-grade alcohol from Culinary Solvent.
Tangelo: A Burst of Citrus Exoticism
A hybrid between a tangerine and a grapefruit or pomelo, the Tangelo is a delicious fruit with a distinct identity. Native to Southeast Asia, the Tangelo has been cultivated in various parts of the world, including Florida, where the popular 'Minneola' variety thrives.
Tangelos are renowned for their bright, tangy flavor that harmonizes the sweetness of a tangerine with the tartness of a grapefruit. The flesh is extremely juicy and boasts a vibrant orange color. They emit a fresh, sweet-citrus aroma that is both refreshing and enticing.
Tangelos are easily identifiable by their teardrop shape and their slightly knobby stem end. The skin is a deep orange color and is easier to peel than many other citrus fruits, making them a user-friendly ingredient for your culinary experiments.
Choosing the Best Tangelos
When selecting Tangelos, look for fruits that are firm to the touch and heavy for their size, a sign of juiciness. The skin should be glossy and vibrant, without any soft spots or blemishes.
Tangelo Extract Recipe
To make a rich Tangelo extract, you will need the zest of 2 Tangelos and 2 fl oz of 200 proof food-grade alcohol from Culinary Solvent.
- Begin by zesting the Tangelos, ensuring to only scrape the outer layer and avoid the bitter white pith underneath.
- Place the zest into a clean glass jar with an airtight lid.
- Pour the Culinary Solvent over the zest, making sure it is fully covered.
- Securely close the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for approximately two weeks. Remember to give it a gentle shake every other day.
- After the steeping time, strain the extract through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a new, clean jar. Your homemade Tangelo extract is ready to be used in a variety of dishes!
Storing Your Tangelo Extract
Storing your Tangelo extract correctly is essential to maintaining its fresh, citrusy flavor. Keep your extract in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Stored properly, it will remain potent for up to two years.
There's no doubt that Tangelos bring a unique, fresh flavor profile to the citrus family. By creating your own Tangelo extract, you can harness these flavors and introduce an exotic twist to your culinary creations. Enjoy the journey!
