September means back to school, the start of fall…and SweeTango apples! This special variety is a natural cross between Honeycrisp and Zestar apples. It was first introduced to consumers in September 2009 after more than a decade of research at the University of Minnesota.
Each SweeTango is crisp and juicy with a smooth texture. The flavor is rich and vibrant, with sweet notes that are framed by a bright acidity. The New Yorker’s John Seabrook loved this apple so much he said his first bite “was like hearing with your mouth, or tasting music.”
The SweeTango is only harvested late August into early September, so enjoy ‘em while you can! Keep reading to learn more about the SweeTango and for recipe ideas.
SWEETANGO APPLE CHARACTERISTICS
- Appearance: A blush apple with deep red coloration over a yellow breaking background
- Texture & Firmness: Crisp and snappy like Honeycrisp apples
- Internal Character: Creamy white
- Flavor: SweeTango apples are juicy and sweet with hints of fall spice and vibrant acidity
- Shape: Oblate to roundly oblate
- Size: Large
- Uses: SweeTango apples are excellent eaten fresh or tossed into salads
SERVING SUGGESTIONS & RECIPES FOR SWEETANGO APPLES
The SweeTango’s vibrant flavor is ideal for eating out of hand as a snack. We love to slice them for cheese plates alongside Chevre or Gouda with a glass of Viognier, Rose or White Zinfandel.
It also has a crisp texture that will add crunch to salads and salsas, as well as hold up for baked goods. Here are a few recipe ideas:
- Baby Mixed Greens with Sliced SweeTango Apples
- SweeTango Apple & Cranberry Salsa
- SweeTango Apple Braid
- Apple Gouda Oatmeal Cookies
- More delicious apple recipes from Stemilt here!
