FoodFood InformationFruitCitrus
Bitter oranges are also known as Seville oranges. Though they are not
newcomers on the scene, they are seldom grown or used in the United States.
The flesh and the juice of the bitter orange are too bitter to enjoy as
a fresh fruit. It is, however, highly prized for its use in making marmalade.
Imported English marmalade is made almost exclusively from Seville oranges,
but nearly all domestic marmalades are made from sweet California oranges.
The difference in flavor is noticeable.
In the United States, a small crop of bitter oranges is produced in Florida
and a few are also imported from Spain. On rare occasions they are offered
for sale in specialty fruit stores. They look just like sweet Florida oranges
and should be stored in the refrigerator. Unless you plan to make authentic
English marmalade, it is no great loss if your favorite retail market doesn't
handle bitter oranges.
Deamer 5/97