Introduction
Oranges are one of the most popular fruits around the world. Known for their sweet, tangy flavor and wealth of nutrients, oranges make a refreshing and healthy snack or addition to many recipes. One of the most popular ways to enjoy oranges is by juicing them. Freshly squeezed orange juice is a classic breakfast drink or anytime pick-me-up. But can you put whole oranges into a juicer to make orange juice? Let’s take a look at the benefits of oranges, types of juicers, and tips for juicing oranges at home.
Benefits of Oranges
Oranges are packed with beneficial nutrients and antioxidants. Here are some of the top health benefits of oranges:
- High in Vitamin C – One orange provides over 100% of your daily Vitamin C needs. Vitamin C boosts immunity and acts as an antioxidant.
- Fiber – A medium orange contains about 3 grams of fiber, supporting healthy digestion.
- Potassium – Oranges are a good source of potassium, an essential electrolyte for nerve and muscle function.
- Folate – Oranges contain folate, a B vitamin that helps create red blood cells.
- Antioxidants – Oranges are high in antioxidants like anthocyanins, flavanones, and vitamin C, which protect cells from damage.
- Low in calories – One medium orange contains just 60-80 calories, making them a nutritious snack or addition to meals.
Consuming oranges regularly can help boost your immune system, support heart health, improve eyesight, and keep your digestive system running smoothly.
Types of Juicers
If you want to unlock all of the nutrition of oranges in liquid form, you’ll need a juicer. There are several different types of juicers to consider for juicing oranges:
Centrifugal Juicers
Centrifugal juicers grind fruits and vegetables into a pulp using sharp blades and then spin at high speeds to separate the juice from the pulp. They are the most common and affordable type of juicer.
- Pros: Fast, easy to use, and inexpensive models available.
- Cons: Can be noisy, produces lower juice yields, juice oxidizes quickly.
- Best for: Juicing fruits and veggies occasionally or for making small amounts of juice at a time.
Masticating Juicers
Masticating or “cold press” juicers crush produce through augers at slower speeds to gently “press” out the juice. They operate at lower temperatures than centrifugal models.
- Pros: Quiet, high juice yields, juice lasts longer.
- Cons: Slow to operate, more expensive.
- Best for: Juicing daily, juicing leafy greens, and maximizing nutrient retention.
Citrus Juicers
Small handheld citrus juicers are specially designed for juicing citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits.
- Pros: Compact, inexpensive, easy to use.
- Cons: Only designed for citrus fruits.
- Best for: Occasional citrus juicing or adding to other juices.
Consider how often you plan to juice citrus and what other produce you want to juice to help decide between a centrifugal, masticating, or citrus juicer.
Tips for Juicing Oranges
Here are some helpful tips for getting the most out of juicing oranges:
1. Choose fresh, ripe oranges.
Select oranges that feel heavy for their size with brightly colored, thin peels. Avoid fruits with soft spots or mold. Citrus fruits don’t continue ripening once picked, so only choose ripe oranges.
2. Wash oranges before juicing.
Rinse off any dirt, chemicals, or wax from the peel. Scrubbing with a brush helps remove surface contaminants.
3. Peel the oranges.
The zest contains beneficial oils, so avoid peeling off large strips if possible. But the bitter white pith should be removed.
4. Cut oranges into halves or quarters.
This makes them easier to feed into the juicer. Remove any seeds as you go to prevent bitterness.
5. Alternate orange sections with water.
Run each orange section through the juicer, followed by a cup of water. The water helps push through all of the juice.
6. Juice oranges early and drink juice right away.
For the freshest taste and maximum nutrition, juice oranges in the morning and drink the juice immediately.
7. Store juice properly.
Pour into an airtight container and refrigerate if not drinking right away. Juice is best within 24 hours.
Can You Juice Whole Oranges?
So can you put a whole orange into a juicer? Let’s look at how different kinds of juicers handle whole oranges:
Centrifugal juicers
Most centrifugal juicers cannot effectively juice whole oranges. Their spinning blades are designed to shred produce into a pulp before spinning to extract the juice. Oranges tend to get stuck in the shredder.
You’ll need to peel oranges and divide into segments before putting them into a centrifugal juicer.
Masticating juicers
High-power masticating juicers like those made by Omega, Tribest, and Kuvings can typically juice whole oranges. The augers are strong enough to crush and press the peel, extracting liquid.
Lower-powered models may still struggle with whole oranges. But they can still juice peeled orange segments effectively.
Citrus juicers
Small handheld citrus juicers are specifically designed to juice whole citrus fruits. Oranges can simply be cut in half and pressed onto the juicing cone. The metal ribs help extract maximum juice.
Electric citrus juicers also juice whole citrus fruits with much less effort than manual models.
So in summary:
| Juicer Type | Can Juice Whole Oranges? |
|---|---|
| Centrifugal | No |
| Masticating | High-powered models can |
| Citrus | Yes |
Recipe: Fresh Orange Juice
This simple recipe makes delicious fresh orange juice using whole oranges:
Ingredients:
- 4 oranges
- 1 cup water
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
- Wash the oranges thoroughly and cut in half.
- Feed the orange halves one at a time into a masticating or citrus juicer, alternating with the water.
- Stir the juice and pour over ice if desired. Drink immediately for maximum freshness.
Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a vitamin-packed, energizing drink to start your day. Adjust the quantities as needed if juicing for more or fewer people. You can also add lemon, lime, grapefruit or other fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about juicing oranges:
What kind of juicer is best for oranges?
Citrus juicers or high-powered masticating juicers work best to juice whole oranges. Centrifugal juicers need peeled orange segments.
Is it better to peel oranges before juicing?
Peeling isn’t mandatory with masticating or citrus juicers, but may increase yields. Peeling is recommended for centrifugal juicers.
How long does fresh orange juice last?
For maximum freshness and nutritional value, drink orange juice right after juicing. It can be refrigerated up to 24 hours. Freeze for longer storage.
Can you juice oranges ahead of time?
Yes, orange juice can be made in advance. Refrigerate for up to 1 day or freeze for a few months. Frozen OJ may lose some flavor.
What’s the best orange for juicing?
Navel and Valencia oranges are common juicing varieties. Blood oranges add dramatic color and flavor. Tangelos are also very juicy.
Conclusion
Thanks to their delicious flavor and wealth of nutrients, oranges make an excellent addition to homemade juices. While centrifugal juicers require peeled orange segments, high-powered masticating and citrus juicers can process whole oranges. For the freshest, tastiest orange juice with the most nutrition, juice oranges as needed and drink the juice immediately. With a good juicer and fresh oranges, you can easily make refreshing orange juice part of your daily breakfast ritual.
