Barnack Beauty Apples
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Barnack Beauty apples are often cited as attractive or handsome. They are round, medium to large, and flattened at either end. Some have what is called a “Roman nose,” a fold or bridge that appears in the stem well. Barnack Beauties have a green-gold background overlaid with a beautiful orange-red blush and a small amount of russeting. The texture is firm and crunchy, with a fine grain. This apple has a grassy aroma, and a sweet-tart taste with notes of grains, spice, and citrus.
Seasons/Availability
The Barnack Beauty apple is available from mid-fall through spring.
Current Facts
The Barnack Beauty apple is an antique English variety of Malus domestica originating in the mid-1800s. It has a good flavor and is a versatile apple useful for both cooking and eating fresh. The tree grows abundant fruit and is resistant to scab. Barnack Beauty should not be confused with Barnack Orange, an apple that resulted as a cross of Barnack Beauty and Cox’s Orange Pippin.
Nutritional Value
Apples are a good source of nutrients in a convenient package. One medium apple contains approximately one-fifth of the daily recommended value of dietary fiber, necessary for the cardiovascular and digestive systems. Apples contain both insoluble and soluble fiber, including pectin. Apples also contain Vitamin C and phytochemicals that strengthen the immune system.
Applications
Versatility is a key feature of the Barnack’s Beauty apple. It is a great cooking apple, useful in pies, cakes, and sauces. The robust flavor and crunchy texture also mark it out as a good dessert apple for eating fresh out of hand. Pair this English apple with sharp cheddar cheese, or classic baking spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. This is a good keeping apple, and can be stored for up to five months in the refrigerator.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Barnack Beauty is an example of a heritage/antique apple coming back into style. During recent decades, only a handful of commercial apple varieties have generally been available in stores. However, consumers are becoming more interested in diversifying their apple purchases with varieties such as Barnack Beauty.
Geography/History
The first Barnack Beauty apple was grown from seed in 1840 in Barnack, a small village in Cambridgeshire, England. Stories suggest it was first grown by Betty Geeson, and was later introduced to the market by W & J Brown in Lincolnshire in 1870. Years later, the variety was given the Award of Merit and a First Class Certificate by the Royal Horticultural Society. Barnack Beauty grows well in chalky soil, reflecting the soil where it was first developed.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Barnack Beauty Apples. One
is easiest, three is harder.
