Overview
The word “apple” holds its origins in the Proto-Germanic language. They used the word “ap(a)laz and could also be used as a general term for “fruit” in Proto-German.
Apple trees originated in Central Asia but are now cultivated worldwide.
Apples were brought to North America by European colonists.
Apples are significant in Norse, Greek, and European Christian religions.
In 2010, apple’s genome was sequenced to add to research on disease control and selective breeding of different types of apples.
The notorious phrase “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” actually originates all the way back to 19th century Whales. It has gone through various minimal changes in the phrase but it means all the same. People though by eating an apple a day you wouldn’t have to worry about any health burdens or trying to find money to pay for a doctor.
The Look
Apple trees are deciduous trees! Meaning they shed their leaves seasonally whilst growing fruit.
This deciduous tree provides many different colors and sizes of apples. They can be selectively bred to achieve whatever type of apple is wanted.
Apples can range from many different hues of red, pink, green, orange, and yellow.
They can even range from more firm to less firm! There are Chinese soft apples and then Granny Smith apples are more towards the firm side.
Apples can be a variety of sizes as well but the average size of an apple is 2 ¼ inches in diameter.
Apples also have various ranges of acidity and sweetness!
Nutrition
Fiber
Phytochemicals
Vitamin C
Benefits
Pectin is a soluble fiber found in plants and works to lower LDL cholesterol levels and promotes good digestion.
Quercetin is a type of phytochemical that works as an antioxidant and natural anti-inflammatory.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant and its biochemical functions include assisting in the synthesis of collagen, carnitine, and norepinephrine.
Serving Size
1 serving is 1 medium-sized apple and provides approximately 95 calories.
1 gram of protein
25 grams of carbohydrates
0 grams of fat
19 grams of sugar
3 grams of fiber
Use & Cooking
Apples can be sliced and baked or even baked whole depending on the dish!
If juicing an apple, it can lose a lot of its nutritional value since it’s held in the skin of the apple but leaves the sugar behind.
Storage
Commercially, apples can actually be stored for months under a controlled atmosphere!
At home, apples can generally last up to 2 weeks if stored in the coolest part of the fridge. Ideally, this would be below 5 degrees Celsius.
Some apples such as Granny Smiths and Fuji’s can last up to 3 times longer than other apples.
Recipes
Besides eating an apple raw, apples can be added to a variety of dishes!
Apples are commonly seen as a fall food item due to their colors and when they are actually ripe to pick. Because of this, they are used in recipes like caramel apple pancakes and french toast, caramel apples served at orchards, or apples in a classic apple pie!
In the United Kingdom, toffee apples are a traditional treat!
Apple juice and apple cider are also one of the most popular uses for apples.
References
