NEW ENGLAND APPLE-OF-THE-WEEK:

THE MACOUN'S INCOMPARABLE FLAVOR

News from

NEW ENGLAND APPLES

P. O. B 41, Hatfield, MA 01038 www.apples-ne.com 413-247-9966

HATFIELD, MA-There are people who insist that the best apple eating is a Macoun, fresh from the tree. The Macoun, the New England Apple of the Week, will be in high demand in New England orchards during the next few weeks for its outstanding color and texture and its explosive flavor. It appears more and more likely that Hurricane Isabel will not have a major impact on New England, which is good news for apple lovers. It means that more apples will stay on the trees and the weather should be perfect for picking over the weekend.

The Macoun is not a new apple-it was developed in Canada in the early 1900s-but it has become especially esteemed by connoisseurs in the Northeast in recent years for its rich, complex flavors, both eaten fresh and in cooking. This McIntosh-type apple-the offspring of McIntosh and Jersey Black parents-is crisper and spicier than the McIntosh, with juicy flesh and a hint of strawberry flavor. Macouns do not store well compared to many varieties, making them in great demand during harvest.

The Macoun ripens soon after the McIntosh, and both apples will be in full harvest throughout New England for the next several weeks. Gala and Honeycrisp should also be available in many New England orchards.

Here's a simple but delicious recipe for applesauce from the book, An Apple Harvest:

Applesauce

Cut the apples into quarters, but do not peel or core. Place in a heavy saucepan, add water, and cook over medium heat, covered, for 15-20 minutes, until the apples are soft, stirring occasionally. Apple should collapse easily when pressed with a fork. Remove from heat and pass through a food mill into a bowl. If not sweet enough, add sugar to taste. Season with cinnamon or nutmeg.

Visitors to the New England Apples booth in the Massachusetts Building of the Eastern States Exposition in Springfield, MA, now through September 28, will find fresh apples, apple crisp, cider doughnuts, apple dumplings and apple strudel. The free brochure, "Taste New England Apples," with information about the New England varieties, and the pamphlet, "Recipes Featuring New England Apples!" will also be available at The Big E.

For links to pick-your-own member orchards throughout the region, visit the New England Apples website at www.apples-ne.com, or call 413-247-9966.