Kitchen Skills
How to Supreme an Orange
Supreming is a simple citrus technique that removes the peel, bitter white pith, and membranes, leaving behind clean, juicy segments. It is an easy way to give salads, desserts, and other dishes a more polished presentation.
Watch Henry make it
Ingredients
- 1 orange
Directions
- 1
Trim the orange
Place the orange on its side and slice off the top and bottom, just enough to expose the flesh. Stand the orange upright on one of the flat ends.
- 2
Remove the peel and pith
Using a sharp paring knife, slice downward following the natural curve of the orange. Remove the peel and white pith while trying to leave as much fruit intact as possible. Rotate the orange and continue until completely peeled.
- 3
Clean up any remaining pith
Look over the orange and carefully trim away any patches of white pith that remain. You should now be able to clearly see the membranes separating each segment.
- 4
Cut the supremes
Hold the orange over a bowl to catch the juice. Carefully slide your knife alongside one membrane toward the center of the orange, then cut along the membrane on the opposite side of the segment. The clean orange segment should release easily. Continue around the orange.
- 5
Do not waste the juice
Once all the supremes have been removed, squeeze the remaining membrane and core over the bowl. Save that fresh juice. It is perfect for vinaigrettes, sauces, cocktails, or anywhere you want a little fresh citrus flavor.
Chef's Tip
- Use a small, very sharp knife and let the shape of the orange guide your cuts. You do not need to rush. The goal is to remove the membrane while keeping those beautiful segments intact.
Try It Here
- Orange supremes are especially beautiful in a fresh salad. I use both the segments and the reserved juice in my Jicama Citrus Salad, where the juice becomes part of the citrus-Tajín vinaigrette.
Nutrition
Per 1 serving
Estimated per serving. Actual values vary with brands, substitutions, and portion size. This is general information, not medical or nutrition advice.
Check every ingredient against your own allergies and dietary needs. See our Health & Nutrition Disclaimer.
