Image by Olivier Mesnage

Poume d'oranges

Ah, poume d'oranges - the delightful French treat of orange slices poached in a fragrant broth. It's a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion; a light and refreshing precursor to a delicious main course, a mid afternoon snack for a leisurely stroll through a sunny park, or a tasty end to a romantic candlelit dinner.

Poume d'oranges


As with all French cuisine, poume d'oranges is not just an ordinary recipe; it is an artful melding of flavors and textures brought together to create a delectable gastronomic experience. The oranges, delicately simmered in their own juice and a variety of spices and herbs, are transposed into a succulent concoction nestled among a bed of silky-smooth jasmine rice.

The captivating sweetness of the oranges invites your taste buds on a sensual journey as they enter and remain on your palate. A medley of fragrant spices and herbs, such as cinnamon and cardamom, further enrich the already captivating flavor, developing a mellifluous symphony of tastes that linger subtly long after the dish has been devoured.

And, for the final flourish of indulgence and decadence, a light syrup is added to the poume d'oranges. This subtle addition serves to draw out the various notes of flavor, rounding off the flavor profile and inducing an almost euphoric state in the diner.

An exquisite yet simple dish, poume d'oranges is sure to delight the most discerning gourmand. Its sophisticated complexity of flavors and its balanced texture will woo you into submission and bring you back again and again to savor its scrumptiousness.

The origin of Poume d'oranges

Ah, the infamous Poume d'Oranges. This tantalizing dish has captivated palates for centuries, and although it's exact origin is somewhat of a mystery, many believe it to be rooted in antiquity.

The first mentions of this delicacy can be found as far back as Medieval France, and some experts suggest that its delectable flavors may have been inspired by the Armenian and Islamic cuisines of the time. Whatever its true inspiration, one thing is clear: the combination of juicy oranges and aromatic spices creates a flavor that has withstood the test of time.

The exact recipe changes depending on the region and country, but most recipes call for a base of oranges, molasses, rosewater, and spices. Some recipes also include saffron, cinnamon, sugar, and pine nuts. The pomegranate syrup often used to top off the dish gives it a sweet and tangy finish.

Variations of this timeless dish can be found in countries like Turkey and Spain, where it is often served for religious festivals or special occasions. In Spain, the dish is usually made with Valencia oranges and plenty of cinnamon. The Turks opt for a mixture of pomegranate syrup and honey, topped with dried fruits and a sprinkle of rose petals.

No matter how it is prepared, Poume d'Oranges remains a siren of the culinary world. Its intricate flavors and textures will continue to entrance and delight guests in homes and restaurants alike.

Types of Poume d'oranges

Ah, Poume d'oranges. This zesty and tantalizing French dish has been beloved by generations of home cooks and culinary professionals alike. Its origins are as enigmatic as its flavor – is it a risotto? A soup? A kind of couscous? The answer is yes, and so much more.

The first type of Poume d'oranges is an entrée, typically made with vegetables, herbs, and broth that is simmered for hours. Made of onions, carrots, celery, garlic, parsley, white wine, and orange juice, this hearty vegan dish is an excellent way to bring a bit of citrus brightness to a meal. This version of the classic French dish looks and tastes unmistakably like risotto, but with an added layer of citrusy complexity.

For a unique spin on the traditional Poume d'oranges, many chefs like to use a variety of fruit juices, such as pineapple and lemon, to create a “tropical” version of the dish. The sweet and tart flavors of the fruits are distinguished beautifully against the savory base of broth and vegetables. Topped with grated cheese and toasted almonds, this version of Poume d'oranges can easily be served as an appetizer or a light main course.

Another version of the classic French dish is a sweet one, usually served as a dessert. This version involves simmering oranges, cloves, cinnamon, and sugar in a simple syrup until the oranges become soft and yield their sweetness. This mix is then poured into individual dishes and topped with a generous dollop of crème fraiche or heavy cream before being served. This sweet and spicy rendition of the classic French dish can be served as a light dessert, or as a playful side dish for roasted meats or fish.

Whether savory or sweet, Poume d'oranges is a versatile staple for any home cook. Its simple ingredients and delectable flavors make it a go-to dish for anyone looking to add a bit of French flair to their kitchen. From the light and refreshing entrée to the decadent and indulgent dessert, a well-made Poume d'oranges will have your guests begging for more.