Tangerines are a sweet, nutritious treat, and preserving them for year-round enjoyment is easier than you might think! With a few simple steps, you can store fresh tangerines for up to 12 months. Here’s how to keep your tangerines fresh without compromising their flavor or nutrients.

Method 1: Freezing Tangerine Segments

Freezing is one of the best methods to keep tangerines fresh for a year while preserving their taste and nutrition.

Steps:

1. Peel the Tangerines: Carefully peel the tangerines and separate each segment.
2. Remove Seeds (Optional): If you prefer, remove any seeds from the segments.
3. Place on a Tray: Lay the segments in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other. This prevents them from clumping together when frozen.
4. Freeze for 1-2 Hours: Place the tray in the freezer for 1-2 hours until the segments are frozen.
5. Transfer to a Bag: Once frozen, transfer the tangerine segments to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Label it with the date and store in the freezer.

How to Use:

• Smoothies: Toss frozen tangerine segments into smoothies for a burst of flavor.
• Snacks: Enjoy frozen tangerines as a refreshing snack.

Method 2: Canning Tangerines in Water

If you prefer storing them in the pantry, canning is a great option to keep tangerines fresh without any additives or preservatives.

Steps:

1. Peel and Prepare: Peel the tangerines and separate them into segments.
2. Remove Seeds: Remove any seeds from the segments.
3. Sterilize Jars: Sterilize mason jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
4. Fill with Tangerines: Place the tangerine segments in the jars, filling each one about 3/4 full.
5. Add Boiling Water: Pour boiling water over the tangerines, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
6. Seal and Process: Seal the jars with lids and place them in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes to ensure they are properly sealed.
7. Cool and Store: Let the jars cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place.

How to Use:

• Baking: Use canned tangerines in cakes, muffins, and desserts.
• Breakfast: Add to yogurt or oatmeal for a fresh citrus boost.

Method 3: Making Tangerine Zest or Puree

If you love cooking with tangerines, making tangerine zest or puree allows you to preserve the essence of tangerines without using up much storage space.

Tangerine Zest:

• Wash and Dry: Thoroughly wash the tangerine peel.
• Grate: Use a grater to zest the tangerine peel.
• Dry: Spread the zest on a baking sheet and dry it in a warm place or in the oven at a very low temperature.
• Store: Store the dried zest in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place for up to a year.

Tangerine Puree:

• Peel and Blend: Peel the tangerines, remove any seeds, and blend the segments into a puree.
• Freeze in Ice Cube Trays: Pour the puree into ice cube trays and freeze. Transfer to a freezer bag once frozen.

Now you can enjoy fresh tangerines in various forms all year long!