Mandora

The mandora, a citrus fruit similar to bittersweet oranges primarily found in the Mediterranean, belongs to the Citrus reticulata family. It resembles a common orange in size and shape but is typically smaller and somewhat flattened. This fruit is believed to be a hybrid between a mandarin and a sweet orange, resulting in a unique flavor profile.

Its aroma and taste are reminiscent of mandarins but more potent and slightly more acidic. The mandora's peel, which ranges from deep orange to a reddish hue, emits a zesty, brightly citrusy fragrance. The scent contains a mix of sweet-floral notes akin to mandarins combined with a tangy and slightly bitter undertone, akin to grapefruits. This complex and robust scent makes mandoras not only favored for fresh consumption but also valued for their use in perfumes and culinary dishes, where they add a rich, citrusy essence. The peel is often used in cooking or to create aromatic infusions and essential oils.