Are you ready to brighten up your cooking routine with a burst of citrusy flavor? Look no further! Mandarin oranges are a treasure trove of sweet and tangy goodness, perfect for adding a twist to your favorite dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 zesty mandarin orange recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
From savory stir-fries and glazed meats to sweet treats like cakes and sorbets, we’ve got you covered with our collection of mouthwatering mandarin orange recipes. Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or prefer milder flavors, there’s something for everyone in this citrus-filled cookbook. So grab your apron, get ready to peel and chop, and let the zesty adventures begin!
Mandarin Orange Chicken Stir-Fry
This sweet and savory stir-fry combines the flavors of mandarin oranges, chicken, and crunchy vegetables for a quick and delicious meal. In just 20 minutes, you can have a flavorful dish ready to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add remaining oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add mandarin oranges, soy sauce, and honey to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir-fry until coated with the orange glaze.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Honey Glazed Mandarin Orange Salmon
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of mandarin oranges with a hint of honey to create a delectable glaze for pan-seared salmon. The result is a flavorful and moist dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mandarin orange juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine mandarin orange juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce glaze by half, stirring occasionally.
4. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked halfway through.
6. Brush the reduced glaze all over the salmon fillets.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the vibrant flavors of mandarin oranges with the creamy richness of avocados, perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup mandarin oranges (or 2 navel oranges), peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado and mandarin orange segments.
2. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and toss gently.
4. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Mandarin Orange Upside-Down Cake
This sweet and tangy cake is infused with the vibrant flavor of mandarin oranges, perfectly balanced by a hint of sweetness. A moist and tender crumb topped with caramelized mandarins creates a delightful dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup mandarin orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 tablespoon grated mandarin zest
– 6-8 mandarin oranges, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, mandarin juice, and zest to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
4. Arrange sliced mandarins in the prepared baking dish.
5. Pour the batter over the mandarins.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a serving plate.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mandarin Orange Sorbet
This sorbet recipe combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with a hint of citrus, making it perfect for warm weather or as a palate cleanser between courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mandarin orange juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the mandarin orange juice and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the water and lemon juice. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the mixture to chill and infuse.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once set, scoop the sorbet into individual servings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (chilling time: at least 2 hours or overnight)
Spicy Mandarin Orange Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and spicy dish that combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the heat of red pepper flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup mandarin orange juice (or to taste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to desired level of spiciness)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in mandarin orange juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Mandarin Orange and Ginger Tea
A refreshing and soothing tea blend that combines the citrusy sweetness of mandarin oranges with the spicy warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mandarin orange slices (about 4-5 slices)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 2 cups water
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the mandarin orange slices and ginger slices.
2. Pour in the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the tea has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the tea into a large pitcher or individual cups using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Serve hot or chilled, sweetened with honey or sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Mandarin Orange Marmalade
This sweet and tangy marmalade is made with mandarin oranges, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze for meats. Its bright citrus flavor is sure to brighten up any breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mandarin oranges, sliced
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. Combine mandarin slices and sugar in a large saucepan.
2. Add water and lemon juice; bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the marmalade has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
4. Remove from heat; let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Coconut Smoothie
Start your day with a refreshing and revitalizing blend of mandarin oranges and coconut milk. This smoothie is perfect for those looking for a healthy and flavorful breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine mandarin orange segments, coconut milk, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie reaches your desired thickness.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Mandarin Orange Glazed Pork Chops
Mandarin Orange Glazed Pork Chops Recipe
This sweet and savory glazed pork chop recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of mandarin oranges, soy sauce, and honey creates a flavorful and sticky glaze that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1/2 cup mandarin orange juice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mandarin orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and garlic until well combined.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 1-2 minutes on each side.
5. Brush the glaze all over the pork chops, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Almond Tart
Mandarin Orange and Almond Tart Recipe
This sweet and tangy tart combines the flavors of mandarin oranges with the crunch of almonds, perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack. With its simple preparation and impressive presentation, this tart is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
• 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 2 cups mandarin orange segments (about 4-5 oranges)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Arrange mandarin orange segments in a pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle sliced almonds and granulated sugar over the oranges.
5. Drizzle honey evenly over the tart.
6. Brush egg wash around the edges of the pastry to create a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Spinach Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the earthy flavor of spinach, perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup mandarin orange segments (about 2-3 oranges)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and mandarin orange segments.
2. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) and nuts over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Mandarin Orange BBQ Ribs
Experience the sweet and tangy fusion of Mandarin oranges and classic BBQ ribs with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup Mandarin orange juice
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Mandarin orange juice, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from the back of the ribs and place them in a large baking dish.
4. Brush both sides of the ribs with the Mandarin orange BBQ sauce.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours or grill for 1 hour, turning occasionally.
6. Remove the foil and continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on cooking method)
Mandarin Orange and Yogurt Parfait
Start your day with a burst of citrusy freshness and creamy goodness! This Mandarin Orange and Yogurt Parfait is a quick, easy, and healthy breakfast or snack option that’s perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup mandarin oranges (segments)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Granola or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Layer the yogurt mixture in a glass or parfait dish.
3. Add the mandarin orange segments on top of the yogurt.
4. Sprinkle granola or chopped nuts over the oranges, if using.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble!)
Mandarin Orange and Basil Salsa
This refreshing salsa combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for topping tacos or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mandarin orange segments, red onion, and basil.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Stir in honey until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (includes chilling time)
Mandarin Orange and Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing and decadent treat that combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges and the richness of dark chocolate. This light-as-air mousse is perfect for warm weather or any occasion when a bright and citrusy flavor is desired.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), melted
– 1/4 cup mandarin orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate, mandarin orange juice, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until well combined.
4. Sift in the confectioners’ sugar and fold gently to incorporate.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Mandarin Orange and Carrot Soup
Mandarin Orange and Carrot Soup Recipe
Discover a refreshing twist on traditional soups with this vibrant and flavorful Mandarin Orange and Carrot Soup. This unique blend of sweet and savory flavors is perfect for any meal or as a soothing snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh carrots
– 1 cup freshly squeezed mandarin orange juice (about 4-5 oranges)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped carrots, mandarin orange juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
7. Purée the soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve warm or chilled, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cumin for added flavor.
Mandarin Orange and Walnut Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup mandarin orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, eggs, mandarin orange juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Mint Mojito
A refreshing twist on the classic mojito, this recipe combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the cooling effects of mint. Perfect for a warm evening or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz white rum
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2-3 sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup mandarin orange juice
– Club soda
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the rum, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with mandarin orange juice and club soda.
6. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None needed! This drink is ready in just a few minutes.
Mandarin Orange and Cinnamon Granola
Brighten up your breakfast or snack time with this vibrant and flavorful granola recipe, infused with the sweetness of mandarin oranges and warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup dried mandarin orange peel
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey and cinnamon. Pour over the dry mixture and stir until combined.
4. Add mandarin orange peel and mix until evenly distributed.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to citrus up your culinary game with these 20 mouth-watering mandarin orange recipes! From savory dishes like Mandarin Orange Chicken Stir-Fry and Spicy Mandarin Orange Shrimp, to sweet treats like Mandarin Orange Upside-Down Cake and Mandarin Orange Sorbet, there’s something for everyone. Plus, enjoy refreshing beverages like Mandarin Orange and Ginger Tea and Mandarin Orange Mojito, or try your hand at making Mandarin Orange Marmalade and Mandarin Orange Granola. With this collection of recipes, you’ll be cooking up a storm in no time!