What's in season in December?

Oranges

Oranges are a citrus fruit forming part of the Rutaceae family, and some of their variations include sweet oranges, blood oranges and bitter oranges. A 1987 study found that orange trees are the most cultivated fruit trees in the world, and they are widely grown in tropical and subtropical climates. Oranges originated from China but nowadays, they are grown all across the world.

Health Benefits:

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C from oranges has numerous health benefits, including protection of cells, production of collagen for skin rejuvenation, fighting anaemia through the absorption of iron, boosting the immune system, slowing down vision loss by ageing, calming anxiety and helping to fight cancer.
• Fibre: The fibre intake of an orange is good for bowel health, controlling cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease, and preventing ulcers. It is also beneficial for diabetic people as it slows down the body’s absorption of sugar.
• Calcium: Calcium is important for strong bones, organs, and muscles.
• Citric Acid: Citric acid from citrus fruits like oranges prevents kidney stones from forming.
• Potassium: Oranges are high in potassium, a mineral which regulates the heartbeat and muscle functions, whilst also lowering blood pressure for people who suffer from hypertension.

Recipe: Chocolate Orange Brownies

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 28 mins
Servings: 24 

Ingredients:

• ½ cup butter, softened
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 eggs
• Orange zest from 1 medium orange
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• ½ cup cake flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups chocolate chips, chopped

A wide variety of quality ingredients for our recipes are available from Arkadia supermarkets in Malta and Gozo, including Arkadia FoodExpress Swatar and Arkadia Food Market Valletta.

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (approx. 175 degrees Celsius).

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, olive oil, sugar, and brown sugar for 4 minutes until fluffy.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, stir in the orange zest and mix.

4. Stir in the cocoa powder, cake flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Stir just until combined.

5. Stir in the chocolate chips or chocolate orange and fold the ingredients together.

6. Pour into 9 x 13 pan and spread the batter to the edges. Bake for 26 - 34 minutes.

7. Let the brownies cool for at least 20 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

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