About
The apple is a tree and its pomaceous fruit, of species Malus domestica in the rose family Rosaceae, is one of the most widely cultivated tree fruits. Apples have long been considered healthy, as indicated by the proverb 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away'. Research suggests that apples may reduce the risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer. They may also help with heart disease, weight loss and controlling cholesterol.
Storage
Whatever type of apples you choose, keep them fresh by following these simple steps.
1. Avoid washing apples before storing them.
2. Remove any spoiled apples, as they will ruin the rest.
3. Put apples in a plastic bag in the coldest part of the refrigerator, preferably the crisper, or store them in a cool place.
4. Store them no longer than six weeks.
Warnings: Storing apples next to broccoli, cabbage, cucumbers, greens or cauliflower could cause these vegetables to spoil faster, since apples give off ethylene gas, which causes faster ripening. (Conversely, you may wish to put an apple in a bag with fruits such as peaches, plums and bananas for the express purpose of speeding up ripening.)
You know what to do with this one. Eat it raw!
or
BAKED CINNAMON APPLES
- 4 baking apples (Rome, Beauty, Golden Delicious)
- 4-8 tbsp. granulated or packed brown sugar
- 4 tsp. butter
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
Core apples and pare 1 inch strip of skin from around middle of each apple or pare upper half of each to prevent splitting. Place apples upright in ungreased baking dish. Place 1-2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon butter and 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon in center of each apple. Pour water (1/4 inch deep) into baking dish.
Bake uncovered at 375 degrees until tender when pierced with fork, 30-40 minutes. (Time will vary with size and type of apples.) Spoon syrup in dish over apples several times during baking if desired. 4 servings.
