Suntan Apple Delivery or Pickup

Suntan apples are a unique type of apple that is a favorite among those looking for a rich-flavored bite. They are a later-ripening apple and are typically ready in late October. You'll find that these medium-sized apples have a gold-yellow outer skin covered with orange-red stripes. Suntan apples result from a cross between two other popularly strong-flavored varieties, the Cox's Orange Pippin and Court Pendu Plat. 

Suntan apples originated from Kent, England, in 1956. In 1999, the Suntan apple received the Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society. The interior flesh of the apple is a cream-yellow color that is crisp and coarse while packing a punch of acidic flavor. While the Suntan apple is appealing to many for its rich taste, it requires more care to grow organically than other varieties. The apple is prone to diseases, including powdery mildew and canker. But its distinct flavor is worth the effort.

Suntan apples present quite a sharp taste when first picked. You may not know precisely when the apples you are purchasing were picked, but leaving them in the refrigerator for a few days or even up to 4 months will help the flavor to mellow. As long as the fruit has kept its brightly colored exterior, you can be confident in a crisp, robust-tasting apple.

Suntan apples have a distinct color pattern that should show clearly on the exterior of the fruit. Find an apple with brightly colored stripes of both red and orange-red over a beautifully golden-yellow layer of skin. Suntan apples are hard and crisp; choose one that is stiff to the touch. These apples are prone to various diseases. Inspecting the fruit to make sure the apple looks healthy is key to getting a good-tasting fruit.

Suntan apples are ideal for fresh eating. They are not used very often as a cooking apple due to their strong acidic flavor. However, Suntan apples can be a delicious addition to several different types of dishes. Their acidity makes them a tasty addition to salads, and they may even bring enough tang to make salad dressing unnecessary, resulting in a healthier dish. You can also add several Suntan apples into your favorite apple pie recipe. The higher acidity adds character to the pie, and their crisp texture makes for a more dynamic bite.

Suntan apples pair well with many types of sandwiches as well. You can add a few slices to a ham sandwich to add a little extra crunch. You can also combine Suntan apples with a chicken salad sandwich and a handful of cranberries to give your lunch a sweet and tart edge.

While they are a complex apple to cultivate, they stay fresh for several months if properly stored once harvested. Keeping them in a cold refrigerator will give you up to 4 months to try this wonderful autumn treat.