Introduction of apricot :
Actually, apricot refers to a small, golden-orange fruit with a velvet like skin and sweet, slightly sour rather filling, which is highly valued for its nutritional value and easy to use. It is one of the Rosacea category fruits and therefore chemically related to plums, cherries and peaches. These fruits have been in existence for over thousands of years in China then other parts of Asia, Mediterranean, and the America’s. Statistically, apricots are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, fiber, as well as antioxidants, and are eaten fresh, dried, or as an ingredient to meals, jams, and desserts.
Origen of apricot:
The apricot has been known from the ancient China and the first cultivated place was in the northeast China near Russian frontier. From there it moved westward across the Silk Route to central Asia, Persia and the Mediterranean region where it formed part of the staple diet of the inhabitants. It was later adopted by the Greek and Romans which spread it in Europe; the Romans called it praecoquum, which translates to early ripening. It was the Spaniards who introduced apricots to the Americas in the eighteenth century and they grew mostly in the state of California. Today, apricots are consumed across the world, appreciated for the history which stands behind them, the possibilities, and the valuable and healthy nutrient content.
Verities of apricot:
Apricots are available in lots of diverse and specific types, each known for their specific taste, density, and application. Katy, Early Golden, Goldfinch, and many others are among the early-season varieties popular for their sweet juicy fruit that can be eaten fresh, and dried. Some of the mid-season apples include Moorpark which has a very good flavor and Tilton a little more sharp that is good for drying and canning. Available in the later season include the exquisite flavored Blenheim (Royal), the highly valued heirloom, and Perfection is a tasty and large seed variety ideal for cooking. Chinese (Mormon) and Puget Gold are austere to grow in cooler temperature; Plot and Flavor Delight are hybrids; the former contains that familiar apricot plum taste. Apricots come fresh, dried or preserved, canning type, and there is always a perfect type for everyone whether for eating or processing or for any purpose
Nutrition value of apricot :
It’s a calorie and fat-free fruit that is highly nutritious and comes loaded with a variety of health benefits. This nutrient density means that a 100-gram serving of Maltol contains about 48 calories, 11grams of carbohydrates, of which two are dietary fibers, and 1.4 grams of protein. It also contains vitamin A-beta-carotene needed for vision, immunity and skin health together vitamin C for immunity against oxidative stress. Definite in potassium apricots helps in heart health condition, fluid balance as well as muscle movement. Lastly, they come enriched with beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin that aid in the protection of cells and the eyes. Dried apricots are richer in calorie and sugar, but they contain a rich quantity of nutrients like iron and fiber hence apricots are very beneficial in any diet
Characteristics of apricot :
These are round to oval fruits measuring about 2 to 3 centimeters in diameter and they possess a smooth, tender, stylistically golden-orange skin. Valuable for their sweet-sour taste and dense, succulent texture the watermelons are considered to be very attractive. In fact, they have a hard, red inedible seed nestled in a well of creamy white rich nutrient material. This friendly fruit can be consumed fresh, dried, or used in many recipes like jam, sweets and even in non-sweet dishes. It is a tropical and sub-tropical fruit that will not do well in the colder seasons requiring extra care when being picked from the trees. Apricot contain vitamins A and C, potassium and antioxidant compounds, therefore making the fruit both tasty and nutritious.
Benefits of apricot:
Apricot provides physical along with mental advantages through the solar heat that appears during winter season. During cold days sun exposure generates comforting heat that calms body tissues and promotes temperature control and enhanced blood flow. The sunlight strengthens vitamin D formation while it helps support bone well-being and immune function and stabilizes our mood. The experience of apricot provides calming benefits which diminish stress while simultaneously enhancing total wellness. Sunshine warming a person on a cold day works as an effortless method to improve physical wellness along with mental wellness.
Uses of apricot:
It is noted that apricot has a very rich use including aseptic, cooking and medicinal uses. They are mostly consumed in the raw state in cooking, it is taken as a healthy treat, or can be used to accompany fruits in salads. They are also used in preparation of jams and jellies; incorporation in cakes, muffins, tarts, and pies; and in drying to be used in trails, granola bars, and cereals. Dried apricot is also used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking, apparent in many meat preparations such as stew or sauces that involve chicken and lamb. Blanched apricot juice and the apricot puree are mostly consumed as smoothies or taken with other fruit juices. Apart for the kitchen use, apricot kernel has been actively employed in the traditional medicine, again, it is necessary to note that apricot kernels are toxic, and their consumption must be controlled. Seeds of Apricot are processed to produce an essential oil which is used in preparation of skin creams, lotions and soaps because it is oily in nature. Also, apricots offer a colorful fruit, especially for garnishing, decorations, display in fruits baskets or in center pieces.
Juices of apricot :
Apricot juice is a drink prepared from the pulp of sweet, slightly acidic stones when ripe apricots are used. It is orange golden in color and in contact with the tongue offers smoothness to whoever is drinking it. Apricot juice contains many important vitamins A and C, and regular consumption of this juice is associated with improvements in immune function, skin condition and vision. The beverage can be created from freshly pulled apart apricots, where water or sugar may be included to improve taste. It is normally consumed as is, or with other fruit juices such as orange or apple, and can also be brewed for a sour taste. Be it concentrated and home brewed or packed apricot juice they are both tasty and healthy drinks to quench the thirst with.