Here’s a fun idea to celebrate Fall – how about hosting an Apple Tasting party? I’ve been to many wine and cheese tasting parties, which are wonderful opportunities to really explore the difference in flavors, examine food pairings, and develop an appreciation for the culinary arts. But, this art of appreciation does not have to be reserved for the “finer foods.” In fact, apples, the quintessential fall fruit, come in so many varieties, and each tasting so different than the next. Despite what is seen at the supermarket, we are not limited to Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Granny Smith and Gala. I’d even say these supermarket “brands” are really bland. To really experience the apple, you must go to an orchard or local farmer’s market, where you will encounter dozens of different apple types – floral, sweet, crispy, crunchy, juicy and just plain delicious!
My farmer’s market offers at least a dozen different types of apples like Honeycrisp, Macoun, Suncrisp, and Winesap to name a few. I always try to get a few I’ve never had before. Some are great for just eating, while others benefit from cooking and baking. Some apples, I find, have a delicate rose-like taste, while others are sweet like honey. But the list of apple varieties goes on and on. For a complete list visit here: http://www.orangepippin.com/apples. And for a list of locally grown NJ apples, visit here: http://www.state.nj.us/jerseyfresh/appletypes.htm
