Blood Oranges

Another delicious addition to my diet! Mmmmm... I know, the name's kinda creepy, but WOW are they good! They are smaller than the average orange with a mottled red and orange skin, and the juice really is a blood red. They start out with a tart burst followed by an intense orange flavor with a hint of raspberry to it. Yes, raspberry. Two yummy things in one! What's not to like? I love working at the grocery store! So many new things to learn about. I've had blood orange tea before, but never the real deal. When a lady came through my checkout line with them, I was overjoyed. LOL! As soon as my shift was done, I clocked out and made a beeline for the produce section.



The reason for the bloody red pigmentation on the inside of the fruit is due to a pigment called anthocyanin, which is uncommon in citrus fruits. Anthocyanin is an antioxidant that reduces the risks associated with many ailments, including age-related illnesses. Blood oranges diminish the risk of heart disease, some types of cancer and "bad" cholesterol build-up. They may also reduce the risk of cataracts, and aid in the body's healing process. They are high in Vitamin C and potassium,so enjoy them often! :D The variety I got at the grocery store is known as Moro. Grown in California, not Florida, like I first thought. The blood orange tree needs cool nights that Florida can't provide. I'm thinking.... blood orange sorbet! The most nutritional benefits are achieved by juicing them or eating them natural though. ;D

Let's have a drink, shall we?

Blood Orange Cocktail

For one cocktail:

* 1 to 2 blood oranges
* 2 T fresh mint
* 1 t raw sugar
* 1 shot dark rum
* Champagne or soda water to top
* ice

Juice 3/4 of an orange, reserving 1/4 for *muddling. *Muddle 1/4 of the orange in a cocktail shaker along with the mint and the sugar. Shake with the rum, juice and some ice.

Strain into a champagne glass, with more ice if desired. Top with champagne or the soda water. Garnish with mint or a slice of orange.

*Definition:

To muddle is to combine ingredients, usually in the bottom of a mixing glass, by pressing them with a muddler before adding the majority of the liquid ingredients.

A muddler is a small wooden pestle shaped like a baseball bat. One end is large and rounded and it used to mash the ingredients. While the other end is skinnier and flat and is used to mix ingredients.