Curacao's Laraha Orange: History, Taste and Culture
The Laraha orange is a unique citrus fruit that grows exclusively in Curaçao. This extraordinary fruit is much more than just an ingredient; it reflects the island's heritage, history and culinary traditions.
What is the Laraha orange?
De Laraha is a descendant of the Valencian orange, brought to Curaçao by Spanish settlers in the 16th century. Due to the dry climate and the salty soil of the island, the originally sweet fruit turned into a bitter one, unsuitable for direct consumption. Despite the inoperability of the flesh, the skin turned out to contain a hidden treasure: aromatic oils with an intense citrusy scent and taste.
The Laraha as a Symbol of Curaçao
The Laraha symbolises the resilience and creativity of the residents of Curaçao. What once seemed like a failed introduction of a foreign fruit was transformed into an important part of the local economy and culture. The fruit is now considered an indispensable ingredient in iconic products such as Blue Curaçao liquor , which is used in cocktails worldwide.
