Orin Apples
Estimated Inventory, 100 ct : 0
Description/Taste
Medium to large in size, the crisp-textured Orin apple is securely encased in a russeted yellow-green skin that resists bruising. Sweet, juicy and aromatic, this very tasty apple is low in acid. Some say it has somewhat of a pineapple flavor while others describe it as having a subtle pear-like taste. Whatever, the extraordinary Orin apple offers an unusual and unique new taste that apple fans will surely want to try.
Seasons/Availability
Look for Orin Apples October to January hopefully stretching into February.
Current Facts
A deliciously sweet new and unique apple variety developed at the Aomori Apple Research Station in Japan, Orin apples are quickly becoming the apple of everyone's eye. Several new apples are currently being introduced from Japan, New Zealand and Europe. Not only is taste and quality emphasized, different color combinations are being sought for visual appeal.
Nutritional Value
Cholesterol-free, apples contain pectin, a beneficial dietary fiber. This fiber may actually work to reduce the body's cholesterol level and is claimed it may possibly help prevent heart attacks. Pectin also slows glucose metabolism in diabetics. Apples contain potassium which may reduce the chances of a stroke and have a trace of boron believed to build bones and to increase mental vitality. Apples offer a small amount of vitamin A and vitamin C and have only a trace of sodium. An average-size apple contains about 80 calories. Unpeeled apples offer the most nutrition. Eating five daily servings of fruits and vegetables lowers the chances of cancer. A recent study found that eating nine or ten daily servings of fruits and vegetables, combined with three servings of low-fat dairy products, were effective in lowering blood pressure.
Applications
Taste this apple's goodness whether enjoyed fresh, baked, microwaved, sautéed or made into apple butter or succulent applesauce. Apples make a delicious side dish, dessert or accompaniment to a variety of savory foods. Add its fruity pizzazz to ho-hum meatloaf. For a quick and easy snack, top apple slices with peanut butter or cheddar cheese. Perk up dull coleslaw. Sliced or cut apples stay white longer if put in a bowl of water with two tablespoons of lemon juice. To store, keep apples as cold as possible in the refrigerator. An apple-worthy note: Apples have long been referred to as Nature's toothbrush! While they don't actually clean the teeth, apples promote dental hygiene. Biting and chewing an apple stimulates the gums. The apple's sweetness promotes the flow of saliva which reduces tooth decay by decreasing the levels of bacteria in the mouth.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Considered a true delicacy in Japan, this sweet apple ranks as the number three apple choice in that country. It is customary in Japan to slice apples and share them with family and friends after meals and on special occasions.
Geography/History
Not only loved for fantastic fragrance, terrific taste and exceptional good looks, apple stories, legends and folktales from around the globe tell the world about the magnificent magic of apples. Eating certain apples could make one live forever and an apple at the end of the world would save a dying king. However, the hero had to find the specially empowered apple and deliver it to the doomed king just in the nick of time. On a lighter note, having the same parents as the Mutsu and Shizuka, Orin apples are a cross of the Golden Delicious by Indo of Japan and loved for its exceptional sweet taste and appealing attractive color. This special variety is considered a delicacy in its native Japanese homeland. Orin apples are grown in Canada and New Zealand.
