The easy-to-peel, delicious, and giant Sumo orange makes a perfect healthy snack.
Next time, don’t pass them by!
This giantvariety of orangesis in peak season between January and April.
Credit:BHG/Ana Cadena
BHG/Ana Cadena
What Is Sumo Citrus?
Sumo Citrus is the brand name of what’s known elsewhere as the dekopon.
The dekopon dates back to 1972 in Japan.
Credit:BHG/Ana Cadena
What Do Sumo Citrus Taste Like?
The dekopon, or Sumo, is a cross between Satsuma, orange, and Mandarin.
The Sumo is bred for sweetness (perfect for your favoritecitrus-infused desserts) and is even sweeter than Clementines.
Sumo Citrus was first imported from Japan to the U.S. in 1998 but wasn’t sold to the public until 2011 after California farmers were able to maintain the fruit’s high growing standards.Credit: Courtesy of Sumo Citrus
It’s also quite big for a mandarin: about the size of a navel orange.
Nobody knows how the topknot got there; such occurrences are not unusual when citrus fruits are crossbred.
In Japan, where it’s from, Sumos are often given as gifts.
Sumo Citrus naturally has bumpy skin and can develop slight blemishes such as discoloration, scarring, or spotting.
Amidst all the hype, Suntreat officially re-branded to own the Sumo Citrus name.
It can now be found ingrocery stores nationwideincluding Target and Meijerbut it’s not cheap.
Give them a try!
