Introduction to Apricots
Apricot (Prunus armónico) is a fruit tree of the rose family (Rosaceae), widely planted in temperate regions of the world, particularly the Mediterranean. Apricots are related to peaches, almonds, plums, and cherries (see Prunus for further information). They can be eaten raw or cooked, and they can be preserved by canning or drying. The fruit is also widely used to make jam and is frequently used to flavor liqueurs. Apricots are abundant in natural sugar, and a good source of vitamin A. Dried apricots are a good source of iron.
Apricot trees are modest and spread out, with broad oval leaves and pointy points. The vivid green leaves are held upright on the stems. In full bloom, the self-pollinated flowers are white and borne single or double at a node on very short branches. The fruits are drupes, with a substantial flat pit or stone within which the seed is contained. When ripe, the fruit is smooth, round to oblong in certain types, and slightly flattened but with little to no hairiness. The flesh is usually a rich yellow to yellowish-orange color. Several kinds of seeds (also known as kernels) are sweet but toxic until roasted.
Apricot health benefits
Apricots provide numerous health benefits due to their high levels of vitamins, flavonoids, and potassium.
Flavonoids protect and strengthen your blood vessels while also lowering inflammation. Potassium, an essential mineral for nerve and muscle function, is also necessary for nutrient transport throughout the body. It also promotes good blood pressure and heart health.
- Skin Protection: Antioxidants such as vitamin E and vitamin C have been shown to improve the appearance of the skin. They can help protect skin cells from UV radiation, prevent early wrinkles, and improve skin suppleness.
- Improved Eye Health: Apricots are high in vitamin A, beta-carotene, and other carotenoids, making them ideal for eye health.
- Improved Digestion: Apricots are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion. They have almost half soluble fiber and half insoluble fiber in their total fiber content.
Serving Size Nutrients
One entire fresh apricot contains the following nutrients:
- 17 calories
- Less than 1 gram of protein
- 0-gram fat
- 4 grams of carbohydrates
- 1 gram fiber
- 3-gram sugar
- Cholesterol level: 0 mg
- Sodium content: 0 milligrams
Apricots have a low-fat content but are high in vitamin A and beta-carotene. These nutrients serve as antioxidants, preventing cell damage.
Apricots are also high in flavonoids, an antioxidant that protects against inflammation and inflammatory diseases while lowering the chances of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Apricots’ major flavonoids are catechin, quercetin, and chlorogenic acids.
Apricot recipes
Apricot Jam
Stone fruits like apricots are delicious when they’re in season. Blink, and they’re gone, so you can only taste them at their peak for a year if you travel on a plane. With this simple jam, you can keep their sweetness when they’re in abundance. You’ll have weeks’ worth of breakfasts to look forward to in the future.
Ingredients:
- 600g ripe apricots, pitted and halved.
- Granulated sugar 600g
- One vanilla bean, split and seeded (optional)
- 12 teaspoons lemon juice
Summer apricots guide
- Select a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil. New Zealand’s optimal time to grow apricot trees is late fall and winter.
- Organic materials, such as compost and sheep pellets, should be added to the soil.
- Plant into a layer of citrus and fruit mix.
- Feed your apricots in the spring and summer to maximize blossom and fruiting.
- Water thoroughly, especially during the warmer months.
