Fresh Tarocco Blood Oranges

TASTING NOTES FROM THE CURATOR

Medium-sized with thin orange skin, Tarocco Sicilian Blood Oranges are often referred to as “half-blood” oranges due to their naturally irregular coloring. Depending on the season and growing conditions, their flesh may range from lightly blushed and delicately veined to more pronounced red tones.

What Tarocco is best known for is not dramatic color, but its exceptional sweetness, balance, and fragrance. Among all blood orange varieties, Tarocco is considered the sweetest and most aromatic, with a bright, refreshing finish.

It also boasts one of the highest natural Vitamin C contents of any orange variety, thanks largely to the fertile volcanic soil surrounding Mount Etna in eastern Sicily, where these oranges originate.

Often called the “queen of oranges” or the “red gold of Sicily,” Tarocco remains the most widely loved and consumed orange in Italy.

Seasonal Note: As a natural, seasonal fruit, color intensity may vary from piece to piece—especially in early to mid-season harvests. Lighter coloration does not affect sweetness, quality, or flavor.

PREPARATION AND PAIRINGS

This Italian citrus marvel is seedless and easy to peel, making it a perfect snack enjoyed on its own.

Tarocco also shines in both savory and sweet preparations. Try a classic Sicilian orange salad: arrange slices with olives, onions, and parsley, season lightly with salt and pepper, and finish with a drizzle of good olive oil.

For dessert, Tarocco works beautifully in blood orange and prosecco jelly, citrus tarts, or lightly reduced syrups for cakes and panna cotta.

A PLEASANT SURPRISE

One popular story behind the name “Tarocco” is that it came from an exclamation of surprise—“Tarocco!”—uttered by a farmer upon first encountering the fruit.

So beloved is this citrus that every last week of February, when production reaches its peak, the town of Palagonia in Sicily celebrates the annual Blood Orange Festival. Throughout the town, visitors enjoy dishes and drinks showcasing this iconic fruit in all its seasonal expressions.

DISCLAIMER ON COLOR VARIATIONS

Tarocco blood oranges are a seasonal, natural product, and variation in color is an inherent characteristic of this variety. While classified as blood oranges, Tarocco is known for lighter and less uniform pigmentation, particularly during early to mid-season harvests.

The red coloration in blood oranges develops in response to cold nighttime temperatures while the fruit is still on the tree. As a result, individual fruits may vary in appearance—from lightly blushed or subtly veined to minimal visible pigmentation—even within the same batch.

Color intensity may also appear more subtle once the fruit arrives in a tropical climate, as pigmentation does not continue to develop after harvest. These visual differences do not affect sweetness, flavor, freshness, or overall quality.

By purchasing Tarocco blood oranges, you are choosing a fruit prized for its taste and balance, rather than uniform red coloration.

Storage Instructions

Blood Oranges require well-ventilated storage and cool temperatures away from direct sunlight. You can place them on the counter or table in a wire or wooden basket. Don’t use a sealed container, as this can hasten the spoiling process. At room temperature, they will last up to 3 days. If you decide to store your fruit in the fridge, place them in the crisper, with or without a mesh bag. They’ll keep for up to two weeks.