What is the difference between mandarin, orange, and clementine?
While these three fruits belong to the same citrus family, they come from different trees: the mandarin is the fruit of the mandarin tree, the orange of the orange tree, and the clementine of the clementine tree. Where it gets a (tiny) bit more complicated is that the clementine tree is a hybrid, created by crossing an orange tree with a mandarin tree. It is therefore natural that, in terms of taste, the clementine borrows from both the orange (sweet and tangy) and the mandarin (more fragrant, less acidic).
Why is mandarin tea a great idea?
Although highly prized for its flavour, the mandarin has many pips (like the lemon). This does not always make eating it easy or pleasant. Extracting its juice or using its zest (its outer peel) is a great way to get around this slight drawback... What's more, the sweetness, fruity character, and softness of mandarin pair particularly well with the intense, full-bodied aromas of black tea, helping to mellow them.
What are the health benefits of mandarin?
Like many fruits, mandarin ticks all the right boxes. Rich in water and fibre, it is low in calories. Its high vitamin C and antioxidant content makes it an ally for boosting the immune system. Enjoying it regularly could help ward off minor winter ailments such as colds and flu, as well as improve digestion after a rich or heavy meal. Finally, mandarin is said to have a soothing effect, so much so that its essential oil is recommended for people dealing with stress or sleep troubles.
How to make homemade mandarin tea?
To start, it is recommended to use organic mandarins so that their peel is free from pesticides. Depending on your taste, you can opt for a mandarin green tea or a mandarin black tea. To make it, infuse mandarin zest alongside your plain tea (green or black). Fancy an even fruitier or more fragrant drink? Add some mandarin juice. Lovers of pretty presentations won't miss adding a slice of mandarin, while those with a sweet tooth can add a spoonful of sugar or honey. In summer, don't hesitate to try mandarin tea as an iced tea. Prepare a jug to keep chilled in the fridge, adding ice cubes just before serving.
How to make a homemade mandarin infusion?
At the end of the day, if you are sensitive to caffeine, mandarin can be enjoyed as a mandarin infusion or mandarin herbal tea (they are the same thing). To make it, infuse a teaspoon of mandarin zest in a cup of simmering water for ten minutes before straining.
Which Kusmi teas feature mandarin?
Outside the mandarin season (October to February), we recommend enjoying mandarin-flavoured teas. At Kusmi, two blends contain it: Troïka, an intense and refreshing black tea flavoured with bergamot, orange, and mandarin, and Bouquet de Fleurs, the very first Kusmi tea (created 150 years ago!), an organic black tea with floral and fruity notes of bergamot, lemon, orange, mandarin, and ylang-ylang. Like all Kusmi teas and herbal infusions, these two recipes feature organic aromatic plants (certified organic), which are blended, flavoured, and packaged in France, then packed in eco-friendly packaging.