Move over, oranges and mandarins: the Sumo is the next citrus star on the rise.
Citrus fruits are in peak season right now, so if you're searching for a bit of sunshine to brighten up the dying days of winter, you're in luck. While it's tempting to grab for a traditional orange like a tangerine or grapefruit, a Sumo, a strange-looking orange, is (in our opinion) the preferable choice. Although its size and shape appear intimidating, one peel and taste will reveal how delicious and approachable this man is. Everything you need to know about the Sumo citrus fruit is right here.
What Is a Sumo Citrus, Exactly?
Sumo citrus is a large mandarin orange that is exceptionally delicious, seedless, and simple to peel. It has a thick, rough rind and is larger than the usual orange. The projecting knob at the stem, often known as a top knot, is its defining feature. Sumo wrestlers and their trademark top-knot hairdo are referenced in the description and the name. Sumo is the brand name of a citrus variety called Shiranui, a trademarked brand name.
Sumo Citrus Fruit's History
Shiranui citrus, also known as Dekopon in Japan and Hallabong in Korea, is a crossbreed between orange and satsuma mandarin. It was first grown by a Japanese farmer in the 1970s and brought to the United States in 1998. However, because of its difficulty in cultivation, the fruit did not reach market shelves until 2011. As a result, almost all Sumos sold in the United States now are cultivated in California's San Joaquin Valley. Due to their limited season and the amount of care required to develop and harvest each fruit, Sumo citrus oranges are usually more expensive than other similar types.
How to Use a Sumo Citrus in Cooking and Eating
Sumo citrus can be consumed in the same way that orange or mandarin can. Because the peel is so easy to remove, eating it in segments will become your preferred mode of consumption. However, there are numerous fun and simple ways to use this fruit in cooking and baking. A Sumo's sweet juice can be employed in a vinaigrette or a protein marinade on the savory side. The fruit would be delicious in an upside-down cake or as the foundation for a curd. It would also be delicious in a spritz drink or blended with frozen fruit for a smoothie. If you're still looking for inspiration, look up recipes for orange or blood oranges and substitute Sumo citrus instead.
Sumo Citrus Nutrition
Sumos are high in nutrients beneficial to your health, making them an excellent addition to your diet. For example, vitamin C, a potent antioxidant and critical building block for your blood vessels, muscles, and bones, is found in 163 percent of the Daily Value in one Sumo. Potassium, which may help with bone health, heart health, and high blood pressure, is also included in one Sumo fruit at 10% of the Daily Value.
One full Sumo contains 29 grams of sugar, roughly twice the amount found in an average-sized orange due to its vast size. However, keep in mind that they are naturally occurring sugars, not sugars that have been added. Therefore, a Sumo may contain more sugar than an orange, but it also includes more fiber and protein, which, among other things, help to slow digestion and make you feel more full.
Where can I get Sumo Citrus?
Only from January to April are sumo citrus available. They're available at most large retailers, including Whole Foods, Albertsons, and Target. Search your ZIP code on the official Sumo citrus website to find a specific location near you.
Conclusion
Sumos are a citrus fruit that is wonderfully delicious, healthful, and simple to eat. You can consume the segments as is or easily include them in a sweet or savory recipe. Sumo season is short, so stock up whenever you see them in the market–you won't be disappointed.