King David Apples
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
King David apples are small to medium in size and are round to oblate in shape, averaging 7-12 centimeters in diameter. The waxy skin is green or yellow and has dark red to orange blushing and striping. There are also small lenticels, or pores, that appear dark on the lighter patches of skin and white on the darker blushing of the skin. The firm flesh is pale yellow, crunchy, has a medium to fine-grained texture, and contains a few small, brown seeds in the center of the core. King David apples are juicy, crisp, and aromatic with a sweet and tart flavor with spicy nuances of wine, similar to the taste of the winesap apple.
Seasons/Availability
King David apples are available in the fall.
Current Facts
King David apples, botanically classified as a part of the Rosaceae family, grow on deciduous trees and are an old American heirloom variety. Believed to be a cross between the jonathon apple and either the black arkansas or winesap apple, King David apples have a strong flavor and are resistant to disease. They are most commonly consumed as a fresh eating apple but can also be used in cooking and for making cider.
Nutritional Value
King David apples are a great source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber, which can help with digestion. They also contain potassium, iron, and boron.
Applications
King David apples are best suited for both raw and cooked applications such as baking, sautéing, or roasting. When raw, they can be consumed fresh as a snack or sliced for green salads. They can also be cooked as the rich wine-like flavor will compliment both sweet and savory preparations. King David apples can be chopped and added to muffins, bread, and cakes. They can also be layered in pies and crisps or diced and added to stuffing for roasted poultry or dumplings. Exceptionally juicy, King David apples are perfect for cider, sauces, juice, and preserves. King David apples will keep for a couple of months when stored in a cool place such as the refrigerator.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
King David apples are considered by many to be a chance seedling, which means the variety was discovered growing naturally and was not created. Often, chance seedlings will be discovered and then chosen to intentionally be bred such as the King David but discovering the true parents and origins of the plant may be difficult unless genetic testing is done.
Geography/History
The King David apple originated in 1893 when it was discovered by farmer, Ben Frost on his property in Durham, Arkansas. Soon after the King David was picked up by Stark Brothers Nursery where it was made commercially available on a national level via their mail-order catalog. Today King David apples are grown and sold at select orchards and markets throughout the United States that specialize in heirloom varieties.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include King David Apples. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Saveur |
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Caramel Apple Butter |
