Produce Briefs...
Orange Honeydew Melon
Oval-to-round and a delicious cross between a cantaloupe and a honeydew, the very fleshy juicy orangish-yellow pulp of the orange honeydew melon is encased in a hard very yellow matching rind.
Iceberg Lettuce
It is the only lettuce type that does not occur in red form as well as green. Iceberg is the given name to dozens of cultivars of lettuce, all of which are adapted to specific planting regions and time periods.
Seasons/Availability
Winesap apples are available in the mid fall and early winter months.
Current Facts
A member of the rose family (Rosaceae), the Winesap apple is parent to a variety of different strains including the Arkansas Black and Stayman Winesap. Unlike most apple trees the flower blossoms on the Winesap tree are pink rather than white.
Description/Taste
Round in shape and medium sized the skin of the Winesap apple is dark red in color. Its firm flesh is crisp and exceptionally juicy with a creamy yellow hue. Winesap apples are highly aromatic with a balanced sweet tart taste and get their name due to their distinctive spicy wine like flavor.
Nutritional Value
Winesap apples are a great source of soluble fiber, which helps to reduce cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular diseases. In addition they contain insoluble fiber, which promotes healthy digestion. They are also a good source of vitamin C and A and contain some potassium and iron.
Applications
Exceptionally juicy, Winesap apples are perfect for cider, sauces, juice and preserves. They will add moisture and a sweet flavor to breads, muffins and cakes. Their firm texture makes them an excellent cooking apple. They can be baked, sautéed and roasted. Layer slices in pies and tarts or dice and add to stuffing for roasted meats or hollowed out squashes. Its spicy wine like flavor will compliment both sweet and savory preparations.
Geography/History
The earliest mention of the Winesap apple was documented in 1917 where it was noted as a popular apple for use in cider production in the state of New Jersey. It is rumored to originally have come over from Europe as a seed but the exact heritage of the Winesap apple is currently unknown. In the past it was mainly used as a cider apple which overtime discouraged growers from planting the Winesap as juice apples fetch a lower price at the market when compared to popular fresh eating varieties. With the recent resurgence in interest in heirloom varieties though the Winesap tree has been popping up in an increasing amount of orchards. Today it can be found growing by small to medium operations in Washington State, Oregon, Georgia and Virginia.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Winsap Apple. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Coconut + Lime |
|
Delicata Squash Apple & Pearl Onion Saute |
| One Green Tomato |
|
Spicy Quince Apple Chutney |
| Forty Chestnuts |
|
Kholrabi Salad with Radishes and Apples |
| Small Town Oven |
|
Apple Crisp |
