Marks & spencer
British Smitten Apples
What it is
Smitten apples are a crisp, juicy variety known for their vibrant red skin and firm texture. They are a relatively new apple cultivar, developed in New Zealand and now grown in the UK. Their balanced flavor profile offers a pleasant sweetness with a hint of tartness, making them versatile for various culinary applications. These apples are typically medium to large in size and have a smooth, unblemished surface when fresh.
How people cook with it
These apples are excellent for both eating fresh and incorporating into cooked dishes.
- Snacking
- Salads
- Baking
- Sauces
Enjoy Smitten apples straight from the fruit bowl for a refreshing snack. Their firm flesh holds its shape well when sliced, making them a great addition to green salads or fruit platters. When baking, they retain some of their texture, providing a pleasant bite in pies and crumbles. They also break down nicely to create smooth apple sauces or compotes, perfect for accompanying savory dishes or as a simple dessert.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to softer apple varieties, Smitten apples offer superior crispness and do not brown as quickly when cut. Their balanced sweet-tart flavor makes them less prone to overpowering other ingredients in a dish, unlike intensely sweet or very sour apples.
Who it is for
Home cooks and families who appreciate a good eating apple and enjoy baking will find these apples useful.
How to keep the rest
Store any remaining Smitten apples in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. Keep them away from other fruits and vegetables that may cause them to ripen or spoil faster. They can remain fresh for several weeks when stored properly in a cool, dark place.