Apples (preferably sweet-tart)

Description

Apples (preferably sweet-tart) have a crunchy, firm texture and a pronounced aroma, with a balance of acidity and sweetness, and the skin can take on shades of green, yellow, and red. Their appearance invites eating raw, while the flavor contrasts well in desserts and savory dishes. Nutritionally, apples are low in calories, rich in dietary fiber (especially pectin), vitamin C, and polyphenols and antioxidants, which support heart health, regulate glucose levels, and promote gut microbiota, as well as provide a feeling of fullness. In the kitchen, they work well raw in salads, baked in cakes and tarts, stewed into purees and compotes, and as an addition to meats, sauces, or chutneys. To prolong freshness, store apples in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator in the vegetable drawer, separated from fruits that emit ethylene, and regularly check, removing any spoiled ones.