What is the Difference Between Clementine and Tangerine?

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Clementines and tangerines are both varieties of mandarin oranges, but they have some differences in taste, size, and skin properties:

  1. Size: Clementines are the smallest type of mandarin orange, while tangerines are a specific type of mandarin orange that is larger and flatter in shape.
  2. Taste: Clementines have a slightly sweeter taste than tangerines, which have a slightly less sweet and more tart flavor.
  3. Skin: Clementines have red-orange skins that are smooth and shiny, while tangerines have a bright orange color with slightly tougher skins.
  4. Peelability: Clementines are the easiest mandarins to peel, followed by Satsumas, while tangerines have a slightly tougher skin that is harder to peel.
  5. Seedless: Clementines are seedless, making them an ideal snack for on-the-go consumption or for including in lunchboxes.

Despite these differences, both clementines and tangerines are sweet and healthy treats that can be enjoyed during the winter months.

Comparative Table: Clementine vs Tangerine

Here is a table comparing the differences between clementines and tangerines:

Feature Clementine Tangerine
Size Slightly smaller Larger
Shape More oval with a flat spot on top and bottom More round and flatter
Skin Brighter orange color, smoother, shinier, and thinner Duller orange color, rougher, and slightly thicker
Ease of Peeling Easier to peel due to thinner skin More difficult to peel
Flavor Sweeter Less sweet, slightly tart
Origin Discovered in Algeria in the early 20th century Originated in Southeast Asia
Growing Season November through April November through April

Both clementines and tangerines are hybrids of the small-sized mandarin and are known for their sweet flavor and easy-to-peel skin. Despite their similarities, they have distinct differences in size, shape, skin, flavor, and origin.