Orange - Thai Fruit Refreshment

Unlike many other fruits, which you might not encounter on a daily basis, it is likely that you either see or consume oranges or an orange-based food (orange juice for example) on an almost daily basis. It should therefore not come as much of a surprise to find out that Thailand is also very much in love with the fruit, as well. If you are somehow unaware of the orange, it is a sweet and juicy fruit that originates from ancient China, and orange trees are actually the most cultivated tree in the world. Oranges are immensely popular throughout the world, and are even important to many local economies, such as the state of California in the United States, where it helps bring in billions of dollars.

“Orange” is also interesting in a linguistic sense because it simultaneously captures both a fruit and a color, and this is the case inmore than onelanguage. The countries that produce the most oranges in the world are Brazil, China, and India, in that order. The fruit does require a certain amount of sunshine and water to grow, and can grow in modest temperatures of all kinds. They are also generally available year-round.

Orange In Thai Culture

There are many different types of oranges, and one of the reasons why so many tourists are interested in trying Thai oranges is because they truly are different in taste. For those who might be unaware, Thailand is famous for sweet oranges that are low on acid, and are often presented with a light green skin, unlike many Western countries, where an orange is typically orange. In Thailand, people are more concerned with taste rather than fruit’s appearance. While there might be Western countries that encourage the skin of a fruit to be unblemished, this seems to be much less of a concern in Asia. The Thai people also enjoy their orange juice freshly squeezed rather than processed, and you will be able to find freshly squeezed orange juice at countless points in your trip. Oranges are even part of an interesting superstition, that suggests that stocking your kitchen with eggs and oranges will bring good luck.

When you hear the phrase “bitter orange juice”, it doesn’t sound too appealing, does it? Well, it’s how many in Thailand choose to quench their thirst, and the drink is called “som saa”. It is often considered an appetite enhancer, as well. Of course, one of the most popular orange-involved dishes in Thailand is none other than orange chicken, which incorporates orange into its sauce and often includes peanuts as well, since much of Thai cuisine does. Many all around the world are fans of the sticky-sweet taste that results through the combination of chicken and orange. While it might not be as popular as other salads, oranges are often utilized in salad dressings such as orange-ginger vinaigrette and orange peanut dressing. Orange is also popular in certain beef dishes such as orange beef, which is often known for its crispy texture and sweet taste.

Health Benefits

Oranges are extremely healthy, but they are most well-known for being a tremendous source of Vitamin C. For those who are unaware of the benefits of Vitamin C, they are considerable. First, Vitamin C boosts the immune system, as it is a strong antioxidant. There are also studies that indicate that Vitamin C might help with regards to lowering blood pressure, as well. In addition, Vitamin C might help with overall iron deficiency, as it improves iron absorption in the body. There are also studies that even suggest that Vitamin C might help with dementia, as well.

Oranges are also agreat fiber source, which helps with blood glucose levels. They also might help to prevent ulcers, as well, and may even help to prevent kidney stones. For those on a diet or worrying about weight loss, have no fear - oranges are very low in calories. They also are known to promote clear and healthy skin, as well, for those who might be concerned about their appearance.

Where Do I Find It?

It doesn’t matter where you are in Thailand, there’s a good chance that you can find some oranges nearby. However, if you are looking for some particularly tasty oranges, there is no need to go farther than a quick 1-minute walk from the Centre Point Hotel Silom to the Bangrak Market. Enjoy!