Article by Gil "hannaone"
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Apples Image by hannaone
Weight information obtained from USDA food database

Apple History and Origin:
The apple tree traces its origins to Central Asia, where the wild Malus sieversii still exists. The fruit's initial purpose was to attract large animals for seed dispersal in its natural habitat. Historical findings indicate that humans have been growing apples for over 5,000 years, and they were later transported along the Silk Road with other common crops. Apples have been cultivated in Asia and Europe for centuries and were later brought to North America by European settlers.

According to researchers, the Silk Road trade routes were responsible for bringing together and hybridizing at least four wild apple populations to create the modern apple.

Culinary:
It is widely known that apples can be used in a variety of dishes, from mouth-watering pies, crumbles, cookies, and jellies to savory salads and soups. Apples add just the right amount of sweetness to salads, sandwiches, and chicken dinners.

Apples can be made into applesauce, crisps, and paired with other snacks. They can also be cooked or dried for different culinary purposes.

More than 7,500 types of apples exist, each bred for different tastes and uses, such as cooking, eating raw, or making cider or apple juice.

When choosing apples they should be firm with no bruising, cuts, or soft spots.