Tangerine Supreme is a popular citrus-flavored soft drink that has been a staple in many American households for decades. Its unique blend of tangerine, orange, and lemon flavors has made it a favorite among those who prefer a tangier alternative to traditional colas. While you can easily purchase Tangerine Supreme at your local grocery store, making it from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to make Tangerine Supreme at home.
Understanding the Flavor Profile of Tangerine Supreme
Before we dive into the recipe, it’s essential to understand the flavor profile of Tangerine Supreme. The drink is characterized by its bold, citrusy taste, which is achieved by combining the juices of tangerines, oranges, and lemons. The flavor is further enhanced by the addition of sugar, citric acid, and natural flavorings.
To replicate the flavor profile of Tangerine Supreme, we’ll need to use a combination of citrus juices, sugar, and citric acid. We’ll also add some natural flavorings to give the drink its distinctive taste.
Ingredients Needed
To make Tangerine Supreme, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of tangerine juice
- 1 cup of orange juice
- 1/2 cup of lemon juice
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of citric acid
- 1/4 teaspoon of natural tangerine flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon of natural orange flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon of natural lemon flavor
- Carbonated water
- Ice cubes
Citrus Juices: The Foundation of Tangerine Supreme
The citrus juices are the foundation of Tangerine Supreme, and using the right combination is crucial to achieving the drink’s distinctive flavor. Tangerine juice provides the drink’s signature taste, while orange juice adds a touch of sweetness. Lemon juice, on the other hand, adds a hint of tartness that balances out the flavor.
When selecting citrus juices, make sure to choose 100% juice without any added sugars or preservatives. You can use freshly squeezed juice or bottled juice, depending on your preference.
Sugar and Citric Acid: The Sweet and Sour Components
Sugar and citric acid are essential components of Tangerine Supreme, as they balance out the flavor and add depth to the drink. Granulated sugar adds sweetness, while citric acid provides a sour taste that complements the citrus juices.
When using citric acid, make sure to handle it carefully, as it can be irritating to the skin and eyes. Wear gloves and goggles when measuring out the citric acid, and avoid inhaling the powder.
Natural Flavorings: The Secret to Tangerine Supreme’s Distinctive Taste
Natural flavorings are the secret to Tangerine Supreme’s distinctive taste. The drink contains a blend of natural tangerine, orange, and lemon flavorings that enhance the citrus juices and add depth to the flavor.
When selecting natural flavorings, make sure to choose products that are free from artificial ingredients and preservatives. You can find natural flavorings at most health food stores or online.
The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Tangerine Supreme
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s move on to the recipe. Making Tangerine Supreme is a relatively simple process that requires some basic kitchen equipment and a bit of patience.
Step 1: Mix the Citrus Juices
In a large pitcher, combine the tangerine, orange, and lemon juices. Stir well to combine, making sure that the juices are fully incorporated.
Step 2: Add the Sugar and Citric Acid
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and citric acid until well combined. Add the sugar mixture to the pitcher with the citrus juices and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 3: Add the Natural Flavorings
Add the natural tangerine, orange, and lemon flavorings to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
Step 4: Chill the Mixture
Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Carbonate the Mixture
Once the mixture has chilled, it’s time to carbonate it. You can use a SodaStream machine or add carbonated water to the mixture. If you’re using a SodaStream machine, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to carbonate the mixture. If you’re adding carbonated water, stir well to combine.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Pour the Tangerine Supreme into glasses filled with ice and serve immediately. You can garnish the drink with a slice of tangerine or orange, if desired.
Tips and Variations
While the recipe above is a faithful reproduction of Tangerine Supreme, you can experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create unique variations. Here are a few tips and variations to try:
- Use different types of citrus juices, such as grapefruit or lime, to create a unique flavor profile.
- Add a splash of grenadine or other fruit syrup to give the drink a fruity twist.
- Use honey or agave nectar instead of granulated sugar to add a touch of sweetness.
- Experiment with different natural flavorings, such as lemon-lime or orange-vanilla, to create a unique taste.
Conclusion
Making Tangerine Supreme from scratch is a fun and rewarding experience that allows you to customize the flavor to your liking. With the right combination of citrus juices, sugar, citric acid, and natural flavorings, you can create a drink that’s identical to the store-bought version. So why not give it a try? With this recipe, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and refreshing drink that’s perfect for any occasion.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tangerine juice | 2 cups |
| Orange juice | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Citric acid | 1/4 cup |
| Natural tangerine flavor | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Natural orange flavor | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Natural lemon flavor | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Carbonated water | As needed |
| Ice cubes | As needed |
By following this recipe and experimenting with different ingredients and flavor combinations, you can create a delicious and refreshing drink that’s perfect for any occasion. So why not give it a try? With a little patience and practice, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master mixologist.
What is Tangerine Supreme and why should I make it?
Tangerine Supreme is a delicious and refreshing dessert made with tangerines, a type of citrus fruit. It’s a perfect treat for warm weather, as it’s light, tangy, and full of citrusy goodness. Making Tangerine Supreme is a great way to enjoy the flavors of tangerines in a unique and exciting way.
By making Tangerine Supreme, you’ll be able to experience the sweet and tangy flavors of tangerines in a whole new way. The process of making it is also relatively easy and fun, making it a great activity to do with friends or family. Plus, you can customize the recipe to your taste by adjusting the amount of sugar or adding other ingredients.
What ingredients do I need to make Tangerine Supreme?
To make Tangerine Supreme, you’ll need a few simple ingredients, including tangerines, sugar, water, and a few other optional ingredients. The most important ingredient is, of course, tangerines, so make sure to choose fresh and juicy ones. You’ll also need granulated sugar to balance out the tartness of the tangerines.
In addition to tangerines and sugar, you may also want to add other ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture of your Tangerine Supreme. Some options include lemon juice, zest, or other spices. You can also experiment with different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or honey, to create a unique flavor profile.
How do I prepare the tangerines for making Tangerine Supreme?
Preparing the tangerines is an important step in making Tangerine Supreme. Start by washing the tangerines thoroughly and patting them dry with a clean towel. Then, peel the tangerines using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, making sure to remove any white pith or seeds.
Once you’ve peeled the tangerines, you can segment them by cutting along the membranes that separate the individual segments. This will help to release the juice and make it easier to mix with the sugar and other ingredients. Be careful not to squeeze the tangerines too hard, as you want to preserve as much of the juice as possible.
How long does it take to make Tangerine Supreme?
Making Tangerine Supreme is a relatively quick and easy process that can be completed in about 30 minutes to an hour. The most time-consuming part of the process is probably preparing the tangerines, which can take around 10-15 minutes. After that, it’s just a matter of mixing the tangerines with sugar and other ingredients, and then chilling the mixture in the refrigerator.
The amount of time it takes to make Tangerine Supreme can also depend on the number of servings you’re making. If you’re making a large batch, it may take a bit longer to prepare the tangerines and mix everything together. However, the end result is well worth the effort, and you can enjoy your delicious Tangerine Supreme in no time.
Can I customize the recipe for Tangerine Supreme to my taste?
One of the best things about making Tangerine Supreme is that you can customize the recipe to your taste. If you prefer your desserts more or less sweet, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. You can also add other ingredients, such as lemon juice or zest, to enhance the flavor and texture of the Tangerine Supreme.
In addition to adjusting the amount of sugar, you can also experiment with different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or honey, to create a unique flavor profile. You can also add other spices or flavorings, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to give your Tangerine Supreme an extra boost of flavor.
How do I store Tangerine Supreme after it’s made?
After you’ve made your Tangerine Supreme, you’ll want to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and chilled. The best way to store it is in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or plastic container, to prevent it from coming into contact with air and losing its flavor.
When storing Tangerine Supreme, make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as this can cause it to spoil or lose its flavor. You can also freeze it for later use, although the texture and flavor may be slightly affected. In general, it’s best to consume Tangerine Supreme within a few days of making it for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I make Tangerine Supreme ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Tangerine Supreme ahead of time, although it’s best to consume it within a few days of making it for optimal flavor and texture. If you’re planning to make it ahead of time, it’s best to prepare the tangerines and mix them with sugar and other ingredients, and then store the mixture in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it.
When making Tangerine Supreme ahead of time, be sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from coming into contact with air and losing its flavor. You can also freeze it for later use, although the texture and flavor may be slightly affected. In general, it’s best to make Tangerine Supreme just before serving to ensure the best flavor and texture.