In this video, I will explain what Sicilian blood oranges are. I jokingly allude to the fact that this looks like it could be a Bloody Mary cocktail drink.
We all know that in New Orleans, they enjoy this beverage, especially during the Mardi Gras celebration.
And then I show the packaging, and you can see the bright red-orange on the container along with the vibrantly-colored beverage. You can find these in any Italian supermarket.
This orange variety, known as a blood orange or sanguinello in Italian, is abundantly found in Sicily. They are prevalent around the volcano known as Mount Etna, outside of Catania.
What Creates Red Pigment in Blood Orange?
The combination of the sun, the rich volcanic soil, and the cool air that comes off the height of the volcano produces the red pigment found in the fruit.
Needless to say, this dark pigmentation is very healthy for you.
It is very tart in flavor. If you remember having those sweet tart candies as a kid, then that is similar to the flavor you will savor in the blood orange.
Types of Blood Oranges
There are a few varieties of blood organs that you will find in Sicilian markets. Some blood orange varieties have seeds while others do not.
The types you will find are tarocco, sanguinello, sanguigno, moro, or delfino. Furthermore, there are varieties in California as well.
In addition, you can store them on the countertop at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for maximum life.
More Facts about Blood Oranges
Sicily is the largest cultivator and producer of oranges in Italy. However, many are surprised to learn that oranges are not native to Sicily. The Arabs introduced and brought the fruit over from Asia during their occupation of Sicily.
The cultivation for blood oranges occurs from December to May every year.
Italian vocabulary for this video
Glass – bicchiere
Orange – Arancia
Blood orange – Sanguinello, sanguigno
Red – rosso
Volcano – vulcano
Mountain – montagna
Italian pronunciation lesson
Specifically, the “gn” combination that you see in montagna and sanguigno is pronounced similarly to the “ny” that you find in canyon.
You may be interested in: YouTube Palermo Italy Video Playlist
How to say pomegranate in Italian?
Photo Credits:
The image of Mount Etna in video from Enrico Rubicondo
Blood orange image is a royalty-free photo from Pixabay – user: Alexas_Foto and map by onestopmap.
