By: Judy Davie - The Food Coach
 If you're looking for an apple that stands out from the crowd, Kissabel apples might just steal your heart. With their stunning pink-to-red flesh, crisp texture, and naturally sweet-tart flavour, they offer something truly unique. But these apples are more than just a pretty face-they're the result of decades of careful breeding using natural techniques, making them a triumph of modern horticulture.
The Science Behind the Colour
Unlike genetically modified varieties, Kissabel apples owe their vibrant hue to traditional cross-breeding methods. Developed over 20 years by IFORED, an international apple breeding program, Kissabel apples originate from ancient red-fleshed wild apple varieties. Through careful selection, breeders have created apples that retain their natural pigmentation while improving flavour, texture, and storage life. The result? A strikingly beautiful apple that's both delicious and naturally bred.
Taste and Texture: A Feast for the Senses
Kissabel apples come in several varieties, each with its own distinct personality:
Kissabel Rouge - The boldest of the bunch, with deep red flesh and an intense, berry-like sweetness balanced by a crisp bite.
Kissabel Orange - A slightly milder variety, featuring orange-red skin, a refreshing crunch, and subtle hints of citrus.
Kissabel Jaune - The most delicate in flavour, with a light golden skin, pink-tinged flesh, and a gentle sweetness reminiscent of summer fruits.
These apples are exceptionally crisp, making them perfect for fresh eating. Their juicy, refreshing nature also makes them an excellent choice for those who love a balance of sweetness and tartness.
A Nutritional Powerhouse
Kissabel apples aren't just a treat for the eyes and taste buds-they're packed with health benefits too. Like all apples, they are rich in fibre, which supports digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. The deep red varieties contain anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants commonly found in berries, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and heart-health benefits. Whether you're looking for a snack to fuel your day or a nutritious addition to your diet, Kissabel apples deliver on both flavour and function.
How to Enjoy Kissabel Apples
Their vibrant colour and bold flavour make Kissabel apples incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Here are some ways to make the most of them:
Fresh Snacking - Slice them up and enjoy their crisp, juicy goodness straight from the fridge.
Salads - Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with walnuts, rocket, and a sharp cheese like blue or goat's cheese.
Baking - Their firm texture holds up well in pies, tarts, and crumbles, adding a pop of colour and tangy sweetness.
Juicing and Cider - The deep red varieties bring a gorgeous pink hue to fresh juices and homemade cider.
Chutneys and Jams - Kissabel apples add depth and richness to preserves, complementing savoury dishes beautifully.
Where to Find Them
As a relatively new variety, Kissabel apples are still making their way into Australian markets. They're typically available in limited quantities during their harvest season, so if you spot them at your local greengrocer don't hesitate to grab a few!
Final Bite
Kissabel apples are a game-changer in the fruit world. With their stunning natural colouring, refreshing crunch, and nutritional benefits, they offer something truly special. Whether you enjoy them fresh, baked, or blended into a juice, these apples are bound to brighten up your plate-and your palate. Keep an eye out for them and experience the magic of this naturally blushing beauty for yourself!
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