Apricot

Name Variations

 * aprium

About Apricots
In Latin, apricot means "precious," a label earned because it ripens earlier than other summer fruits. A relative of the peach, the apricot is smaller and has a smooth, oval pit that falls out easily when the fruit is halved.

Apricots originally came from China. This golden fruit has been around for more than 4,000 years. Apricots progressively made their way through the Persian Empire to the Mediterranean where they were fondly adopted. Spanish explorers introduced the apricot to the New World, and they were planted in the gardens of Spanish missions all over California. The first recorded major production of apricots in America was in 1792 south of San Francisco.

The surface of the fruit is smooth and nearly hairless; they have a single seed that is called stone. Around the 17th century, apricot oil helped in treating tumors and ulcers. On the European continent, apricots were thought to be an aphrodisiac. The English folklore said that dreaming apricots brings good luck while the Chinese considered apricots a symbol of cowardice.

Selection and Storage
Look for plump apricots with as much golden orange color as possible. Stay clear of fruit that is pale yellow, greenish-yellow, very firm, shriveled, or bruised. Apricots that are soft-ripe have the best flavor, but they must be eaten immediately.

Apricots will ripen at room temperature. To help them ripen, place them in a paper bag with an apple. When they yield to gentle pressure, they are ready to eat. Refrigerate ripe apricots, unwashed, in a paper or plastic bag up to 2 days. Wash them before eating. They are a perfect fast food anytime. To cut fruit, slice around its seam, twist it in half, and lift out the pit.

Apricots are available throughout the year from different regions:
 * Mid-February through mid-March from Chile
 * Mid-June through mid-July from California
 * Mid-July through mid-August from Washington

Dried apricots
Due to their high fiber to volume ratio, dried apricots are sometimes used to relieve constipation or induce diarrhea. Effects can be felt after eating as few as three.