Apricot

What Is an Apricot?

The apricot (Prunus armeniaca) is a summer stone fruit in the rose family. It is known for its orange-yellow skin and fleshy, slightly velvety texture. Türkiye is one of the world’s largest apricot producers, and Malatya is closely associated with the fruit.

Fresh apricots have a short harvest season, so they are eaten dried for much of the year. The pit is hard and bitter and is generally not eaten.

Apricot Nutrition Facts

Apricots are a low-calorie fruit, with about 48 kcal per 100 grams. They are rich in vitamin A thanks to beta-carotene, which gives them their orange color; they are also a source of potassium and fiber.

What Are the Benefits of Apricots?

With their high vitamin A content, apricots are among the fruits featured as part of a balanced diet. Their potassium content may also contribute to daily mineral intake.

This is general information; apricots are a food and are not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Apricots

Choose fresh apricots that yield slightly when pressed gently with a finger and have an orange-yellow color; greenish areas indicate that they are not yet ripe.

• The skin should be smooth and a bright orange-yellow.
• It should yield slightly to gentle pressure; excessive firmness indicates that it is unripe.
• It should have no bruised or soft brown areas.

How to Store Apricots

Ripe apricots stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3–5 days; firm, unripe apricots can be left at room temperature for a few days to ripen. For longer storage, apricots can be dried or made into jam or fruit leather.

How to Use Apricots in the Kitchen

Apricots are most often eaten fresh; they are also used to make jam and compote, or dried. Dried apricots bring the aroma of fresh apricots to the table even in winter.

How to Make Dried Apricots

Apricots are halved and pitted, then left in the sun or a dehydrator for several days until they lose moisture. In the traditional method, they are treated with sulfur to preserve their color.

Apricot Jam

Chopped apricots are simmered with sugar and lemon juice until thickened. The kernels (if present) can be toasted and added to the jam for an almond-like aroma.

What Recipes Use Apricots?

Apricot jam, apricot tart, apricot compote, and chicken with apricots are among the most popular recipes. Dried apricots are also added to breakfast foods and trail mixes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are apricots good for?

Apricots contain vitamin A, potassium, and fiber and can be eaten as part of a balanced diet. They are a food and are not claimed to cure any disease.

Are apricot kernels edible?

The kernel inside an apricot pit is bitter, and eating it in large amounts is not recommended; it is generally discarded or used only in limited amounts after toasting.

Are fresh or dried apricots better for you?

Both have nutritional value. Fresh apricots contain more water and vitamin C, while dried apricots are richer in fiber and minerals concentrated during drying, but their sugar concentration also increases.

How many calories are in an apricot?

A medium apricot (about 35 g) has around 17 kcal; 100 grams contain an average of 48 kcal.

Can apricots be frozen?

Yes. Apricots can be pitted, sliced, and frozen for use in compote and dessert recipes in winter.