Cathy Isom tells us about a national holiday for your taste buds. You may have had your fill of holiday feasting, but tomorrow marks another food holiday, National Apricot Day.
From National Day Calendar website
National Apricot Day-January 9
Apricot lovers from all over the United States observe National Apricot Day every year on January 9th.
The apricot’s velvety flesh is similar to that of their relative the peach. The texture and flavor of the golden-orange fruit is more firm and tart, though. This versatile fruit is enjoyed fresh, canned and dried.
Apricots are found the world over, but originated in northeastern China near the Russian border in ancient times and was later introduced to Europe and Armenia. The apricot found its way to North American when English colonists settled in Virginia. The fruit was brought further west by Spanish explorers and missionaries where the fruit is grown commercially today.
The apricot tree can grow to 45 feet if left unpruned. It produces white, pink or red blossoms and is a winter hardy tree, however early frosts can damage the fruit.
Fresh apricots are packed with nutrients. A 1 cup serving apricot halves contains 60% of the daily allowance of Vitamin A and 26% of the daily allownace for Vitamin C. Other vitamins in this low calorie snack include Vitamin B-
6, Magnesium, Iron and Calcium and is also a good source of fiber.
With its unique flavor, the apricot is a versatile ingredient lending itself to both sweet and savory dishes. Perfect for snacking, apricots are best fresh off the tree but are also found in markets the year round. Dried, they are delicious in healthful granola or a salad.
Try these flavorful apricot recipes:
Have some apricots and use #NationalApricotDay to post on social media.