Apricot

Apricots are small, round, and slightly oblong fruits with smooth and velvety skin. The skin frequently has a pink flush, and may vary in colour from light yellow, golden, to a burned orange, depending on the type and how ripe they are. The flesh is smooth, juicy, sensitive, and sweet, with just a little acidity towards the end. The taste is generally characterised as being between between a peach and a plum. Apricots are classed as stone fruits or drupes, defined by their thin skin, pulpy interior, and single, hard, central shell containing a pit or stone.

STORAGE

Store apricots on the counter at room temperature until ripe and tender to the touch. Apricots should be consumed immediately ripe, or they may then be kept in the refrigerator and eaten within a few days. When storing, take cautious not to stack or pile them since they bruise quickly. For prolonged storage, you may blanch, slice, remove the pit, and freeze them for up to 3 months.

FUN FACTS & TIPS

Do you know historically, they have played an important part in Chinese medicine where they are supposed to renew and purify the body? Where they used the kernels for thousands of years to treat lung disorders and constipation.

NUTRITION & HEALTH BENEFITS

• Builds Qi blood
• Stops chronic dry coughs, wheezing, asthma, shortness of breath
• Cures constipation, acne, eczema, scabies, psoriasis, dog bites
• Strengthens earaches, eye health & muscles 
• Improves stamina & blood pressure
• Lowers bad (ldl) cholesterol
• Quenches thirst

Excellent source of vitamins A and C, potassium, calcium, iron and beta-carotenes, minerals, fiber, antioxidants


Common Names: Xing Ren, Rosaceae, Prunus sect, Armeniaca, P.armeniaca, Apricot Kernels, 杏子, 杏儿