Tangelo Meaning: Definition and Examples
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tangelo
[ˈtæn.dʒə.loʊ ]
Definition
fruit variety
A tangelo is a hybrid citrus fruit, a cross between a tangerine and a pomelo or a grapefruit. It is known for its unique sweet and tangy flavor and is typically larger than a tangerine. The skin is usually easy to peel, making it a convenient snack. Tangelos are often seedless and have a juicy, succulent flesh that is enjoyed fresh or used in cooking and baking.
Synonyms
citrus, hybrid fruit.
Examples of usage
- I bought a bag of tangelos from the farmer's market.
- Tangelos make a refreshing juice.
- She added tangelos to her fruit salad.
- Tangelos are usually in season during winter.
Interesting Facts
Agriculture
- Tangelos thrive in warm climates, making them popular in southern California and Florida.
- They are typically in season from fall to early spring, giving them a prime spot during winter months.
Nutrition
- This fruit is packed with vitamin C, which helps keep our bodies healthy and boosts our immune system.
- Tangelos also contain antioxidants that fight off harmful substances in the body.
Culinary Uses
- Due to their sweetness, tangelos are often used in salads, desserts, or eaten fresh as a snack.
- They can also be juiced for refreshing beverages, popular in summer recipes.
Pop Culture
- Tangelos have appeared in various recipes featured on trendy food blogs and cooking shows, boosting their popularity.
- They represent a fun twist on traditional citrus in popular fruit-based cocktails.
Origin of 'tangelo'
Main points about word origin
- The name combines 'tangerine' and 'pomelo' to reflect its parent fruits.
- Tangelo is derived from 'tang' meaning a strong taste, hinting at its flavorful experience.
The word 'tangelo' originated in the mid-20th century, combining 'tangerine' and 'pomelo'. It first appeared in the United States as part of efforts to create new citrus varieties to meet consumer demand for sweeter and easy-to-peel fruits. The hybridization process that produced tangelos involved traditional plant breeding techniques, and since then, tangelos have become popular in various culinary applications. They are particularly favored for their juicy and sweet profile, which contributes to their use in fresh consumption and in beverages. Tangelos are a notable achievement in agricultural innovation, representing the collaboration of natural fruit varieties to create flavorful and marketable produce.