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Strawberry Parfait Apples
Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Strawberry Parfait apples, like their name suggests, taste like strawberries. Early fruit is yellow, and later develops a red blush. The flesh is firm and has notes of red. The Strawberry Parfait apple tree is often planted as a year-round ornamental to show off its maroon leaf buds in the spring, its many large, bright pink flowers, and attractive and unique shape.
Seasons/Availability
Strawberry Parfait apples are an early season variety that is available in late summer.
Current Facts
The Strawberry Parfait apple, a variety of Malus domestica, is a crabapple with culinary use. Crabapples are distinguished from apples simply by their size—they must be two inches in diameter or less. The Strawberry Parfait is more delicious than most crabapples, which tend to be very sour. It is American variety that originated in New Jersey.
Nutritional Value
Crabapples pack in many nutrients despite their small size. They contain Vitamin C, pectin, and antioxidant flavanols. Their makeup means they are foods that contribute to strengthening the immune system, maintaining heart health, and helping the digestive system.
Applications
The best use for Strawberry Parfait apples is eating them fresh, to savor their unique flavor. However, they can substitute for more common apple varieties in recipes, and make a particularly interesting jam or jelly. Choose firm and unblemished fruits. To check for ripeness, make sure the seeds are brown. Strawberry Parfaits do not keep very well, and should not be stored over the winter. Keep them in the refrigerator in plastic bags for shorter periods of time.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
This apple has such a nice flavor and smell that it has been historically used as a natural air freshener.
Geography/History
Many crabapple varieties are native to North America. Some natives were used in the United States to breed better tasting and more attractive crabapples over time, including the Strawberry Parfait.
