Culture Kids brings listeners along on a zesty global journey as Asher and his mom Kristen, invite young explorers to hop aboard their imaginary Culture Train and uncover the wonders of two extraordinary citrus fruits!

Packed with whimsy and wonder, the episode begins with lively storytelling that defines what makes a fruit citrus, highlighting characteristics like thick rinds, juicy segments, puckering tang, and that unmistakably bright citrus scent that makes your nose tingle.

Soon enough, the Culture Train chugs off to Japan, where listeners meet yuzu: a tangerine-sized, wrinkly fruit prized more for its fragrant peel than its tart juice. Kristen explains how yuzu is used to flavor ponzu sauces, teas, and even ice cream, and how families celebrate the winter solstice with aromatic yuzu baths...a sensory tradition that warms both body and spirit.

From Japan, the adventure continues to the Philippines, where the duo explores a sunny calamansi farm. Asher and Kristen point out star-shaped blossoms and marvel at the tiny round fruits that change from green to vibrant orange when ripe. Young explorers are encouraged to scratch the rind, breathe in the sweet, tangy fragrance, take a bite, and taste the burst of sour yet surprisingly sweet juice, discovering how calamansi brightens everything from noodle dishes and sauces to desserts and refreshing drinks.

The episode also gently educates kids about respecting agriculture across borders: Kristen explains why fresh fruits can’t be brought from one country to another- tiny pests or diseases, though invisible, could harm faraway farms and gardens, reminding curious listeners to protect nature and people everywhere. As the journey wraps up, Asher is encouraged to become a “Flavor Explorer” at home, sniffing new fruits in the grocery aisle, asking grown-ups for a tiny taste (when safe), and seeing everyday shopping as an imaginative learning adventure!

Credits:

Executive Producer/Host/Writer/Editor: Kristen Kim

Producer & Host: Asher Kim

Academic Consultant: Elisha Li

Audio Engineer & Post: Robin Lai

Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad

Sound Design Elements: Envato

About Culture Kids

Culture Kids Podcast is a nonprofit family show dedicated to fostering a multicultural mindset in the next generation.

If you’d like to support our mission, please visit culturekidsproductions.org and click on the Support tab.

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