Apples

General Information

Apples, as eaten in the fresh state, are a healthy, refreshing, and crunchy snack. They quench your thirst and their acid content makes them a natural mouth freshener.  The native home of the apple is not definitively known, but the tree most likely originated in the area between the Caspian and the Black seas. Charred remains of apples have been found in the prehistoric lake dwellings of Switzerland. Evidence shows that man has been enjoying apples for at least 750,000 years!  Apples were a favorite fruit of the ancient Greeks and Romans.  The apple was introduced to America by early settlers, who brought apple seeds with them.  Records of the Massachusetts Bay Company indicate that apples were grown in New England as early as 1630.  Seeds were carried westward by missionaries, traders, and Native Americans. One man alone, John Chapman (Johnny Appleseed), was responsible for extensive plantings of apple trees in the Midwestern United States.

Tips

Apples are best when they’re firm and shiny and despite popular belief, apples are best when they’re refrigerated. For the best results, place apples in a perforated plastic bag, and place it in the crisper drawer. It’s important to not store apples that are bruised, cut, or spoiled, because they will cause the good apples to go bad. When pairing other ingredients with apples, it is a great idea to mix sweet and tart flavors. This leads to a very balanced and pleasurable result.

If your apples are overripe, have been sitting out for too long, or are just generally subpar, there are several options you have for using them before they completely spoil. Apple Sauce, Apple Butter and Smoothies are the easiest and most popular ideas. However, these apples are also a great addition to oatmeal or soups (they pair nicely with carrots, parsnips, butternut squash, and pumpkins). You can also make apple chips in the oven, or go the extra mile to bake apple pie or apple crisp for a classic dessert choice. 

Health Benefits

Apples have high levels of antioxidants, which combat radicals that damage cellular structures. Apples are a good source of Vitamin C, which helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents.Drinking apple juice can also decrease the effects of aging on the brain and prevent Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, women who have at least one apple per day are 28% less likely to get type 2 diabetes. Apples are also high in soluble fiber which helps combat diarrhea and constipation.

Storing & Cooking Information

Handling: Apples should be washed before eating.  Peel or eat with the skin.  Eat whole or cut into slices.

Storing: Proper storage conditions help prolong the shelf-life of apples.  Store apples at 32F and maintain high humidity. The crisper drawers of many refrigerators work well, but keep the fruit away from vegetables since ripening fruit gives off gas that may spoil vegetables.  Apples can also be stored in plastic bags in the refrigerator to prevent fruit dehydration.