The Taste of Fall
When the air turns chilly and the leaves begin to change, it is time to think of all the wonderful foods of fall. Apples are one of the first fall foods that come to mind. They are commercially grown in 36 states, come in all shades of red, green, and yellow, and range in size from a little bigger than a cherry to as big as a grapefruit!
There are about 2,500 varieties of apples grown in the United States. Red and Golden Delicious, Fuji and Granny Smith are varieties that are available year-round.
There are two different types of apples to choose from, cooking and eating. Cooking apples are used primarily for cooking rather than eating. Cooking apples have a lower sugar content than eating apples so can be a little tarter than an eating apple. Some varieties have a firm flesh that does not break down when cooked. And as a rule, do better in storage than eating apples. Eating apples are a great snack or are delicious cut up in a salad or other foods.
Some examples of cooking apples are Empire, Granny Smith, Jonathan, McIntosh and Pink Lady. Great eating apple varieties are Braeburn, Gala, Honeycrisp, Jonagold and Red or Yellow Delicious. But, don’t be afraid to experiment. A favorite eating apple may also be a great one to cook with or you might end up loving a ‘cooking’ apple for eating.
Apples are a good source of fiber and vitamin C. They are also fat, cholesterol and sodium free. Almost half the vitamin C is just underneath the skin, so, eat the skin too! There is about 81 calories in a 2½ inch apple. The nutritional value will vary depending on the variety and size.
According to the FDA you should wash raw fruits and vegetables very well before using them. You do not need to use soap or other detergents, they might leave a residue that is not safe to eat. After washing dry with a clean towel.
To keep apples from turning brown after being cut by coating them with an acidic juice like orange, lemon or pineapple. There are also commercial products available that will do the same thing, just follow the manufacturer’s directions.
For more information about apples contact your local Nebraska Extension office or on the web at: food.unl.edu Nebraska Extension In Our Grit, Our Glory.
UN–L for Families
Nancy Frecks, Extension Educator
Nebraska Extension