Apples are a fruit that can be found in shops year-round. They’ve been valued by humans for over 10,000 years and were widely traded along the ancient Silk Road.
Description The apple is a fruit that belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae). There are thousands of apple varieties. Most of the apples we eat come from Europe, but during spring and summer they’re often imported from the Southern Hemisphere.
Whether eaten raw, made into applesauce or juice, or baked into a classic apple pie – apples are incredibly versatile. They are also used in alcoholic drinks such as cider and Calvados.
Buying and Storing When buying apples, avoid those with brown spots or bruises. If stored with other fruits in a fruit bowl, apples can cause them to ripen faster. To keep them fresh longer, store them separately.
In the Kitchen Apples can be sweet, sweet-tart or sharp in flavour. Some cook down quickly into a soft purée, while others are ideal for baking as they release less moisture.
Apples are usually cored before use. The seeds contain amygdalin, which can produce cyanide. It’s not dangerous in small quantities, but it’s best to avoid them.
Peeled apples tend to brown quickly. This can easily be prevented by sprinkling them with a little lemon or lime juice.
Apple recipes for any time of day
Radish salad with apple & yoghurt
This fresh and crunchy salad combines the spicy flavour of radish with sweet apple and creamy yoghurt.
This goat cheese with apples, honey and rosemary is a flavourful dish that beautifully combines sweet, savoury and herby elements. Perfect as a festive starter, side dish or lunch.
