What is it?

Clementines are a diminutive orange citrus fruit, likely a cross of a mandarin and an orange, with a thin skin that peels off easily. Inside their segmented flesh is juicy and sweet flesh that’s just a little more acidic than that of oranges.

Don’t have it?

Try using tangerines instead.

How to choose:

You’ll find clementines from October through February. Choose fruits that are intact and firm, heavy for their size, and deeply colored. No need to avoid fruits that have a slight green cast—they’ll color quickly.

How to store:

Stored at room temperature with good air circulation, clementines keep several days to a week. Turning them and, even more important, keeping a little space between fruits, helps prevent mold from setting in. For longer keeping, stash them in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator.

Recipes

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  Recipe

  Spring Salad with Strawberries

  The season’s best produce is highlighted in this zesty, healthful starter.

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  Recipe

  Clementine Crêpes Suzette

  This is an update on the classic French dessert, which used to be a favorite in restaurants, prepared tableside by a uniformed maître d’. This version is fresher, with clementine…

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  Recipe

  Seared Scallop Tacos with Jicama Peanut Slaw

  This is a departure from classic Mexican tacos and is inspired by a chef of modern Mexican cooking, Enrique Olvera, who serves foie gras with this pico at his Mexico…

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  Recipe

  Honey-Preserved Clementines

  Jars of preserved clementines make great gifts for the holidays (if you can bear to part with them).

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  Orange-Scented Mulled Wine

  This traditional cold-weather drink is just what its name implies (to mull means to warm and spice): wine, usually red, infused with sugar, citrus, and spices, served warm. A seasonal…

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  Recipe

  Clementine Granita

  Although a frozen dessert might not be your first thought for deep winter, this granita is a refreshingly light and delightful finish to a rich winter meal. And it’s a…

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  Recipe

  Pear, Cherry & Apricot Crisp

  You can bake this autumn fruit crisp in individual ramekins or in one large baking dish.