Ontario, known for its picturesque landscapes and abundant orchards, is a haven for apple enthusiasts. With over 7,000 apple farms across the province, Ontario produces a staggering array of apple varieties, each with its unique flavor profile, texture, and seasonality. As the seasons change, so do the types of apples available in the market. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Ontario apples, exploring the varieties that are in season now, their characteristics, and how to make the most of them.
Understanding Apple Seasonality in Ontario
Apple seasonality in Ontario is influenced by factors such as weather conditions, temperature, and the specific variety of apple. Generally, the apple season in Ontario can be divided into three main periods:
Early Season (August to September)
The early season apples are typically harvested in late August and early September. These apples are often sweet and tender, with a shorter shelf life. Some popular early-season apple varieties in Ontario include:
- Paula Red: Known for its sweet flavor and crisp texture, Paula Red apples are great for snacking and salads.
- Zestar: A cross between a State Fair and MN 1691 apple, Zestar apples are sweet and tangy, making them perfect for fresh eating and cooking.
Mid-Season (September to October)
Mid-season apples are harvested in late September and early October. These apples are often a mix of sweet and tart flavors, with a longer shelf life than early-season apples. Some popular mid-season apple varieties in Ontario include:
- McIntosh: A classic Canadian apple variety, McIntosh apples are known for their soft flesh and tangy flavor, making them great for snacking, cooking, and applesauce.
- Cortland: A cross between a McIntosh and a Ben Davis apple, Cortland apples are sweet and tart, with a crisp texture that’s perfect for snacking and salads.
Late Season (October to November)
Late-season apples are harvested in late October and early November. These apples are often tart and firm, with a longer shelf life than mid-season apples. Some popular late-season apple varieties in Ontario include:
- Empire: A cross between a McIntosh and a Red Delicious apple, Empire apples are sweet and crunchy, making them great for snacking and salads.
- Fuji: Developed in Japan, Fuji apples are sweet and tart, with a crisp texture that’s perfect for fresh eating and cooking.
What Apples are in Season Now in Ontario?
As we explore the current apple season in Ontario, we’ll focus on the mid-season varieties that are available from September to October. Here are some of the most popular apple varieties in season now:
McIntosh Apples
McIntosh apples are a staple in Ontario, and for good reason. Their soft flesh and tangy flavor make them perfect for snacking, cooking, and applesauce. McIntosh apples are also great for making cider and perries, thanks to their high acidity and tannin levels.
Cortland Apples
Cortland apples are another popular variety in Ontario, known for their sweet and tart flavor profile. With a crisp texture that’s perfect for snacking and salads, Cortland apples are a great choice for those looking for a versatile apple variety.
Empire Apples
Empire apples are a cross between a McIntosh and a Red Delicious apple, making them a great choice for those who love sweet and crunchy apples. With a long shelf life and a flavor profile that’s both sweet and tart, Empire apples are perfect for snacking, salads, and cooking.
How to Choose the Perfect Apple
With so many apple varieties available in Ontario, choosing the perfect apple can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your apple-picking experience:
Consider the Flavor Profile
Think about the flavor profile you prefer in an apple. Do you like sweet and crunchy apples, or tart and tangy ones? Different apple varieties offer unique flavor profiles, so it’s essential to choose an apple that suits your taste buds.
Check the Texture
Apples come in a range of textures, from soft and tender to crisp and firm. Consider what you’ll be using the apples for – snacking, cooking, or making applesauce – and choose an apple variety that suits your needs.
Look for Freshness
When choosing apples, look for freshness by checking the skin, stem, and flesh. A fresh apple should have a vibrant skin color, a sturdy stem, and a crisp flesh that’s free of bruises and blemishes.
Apple Recipes to Try This Season
Now that you know what apples are in season in Ontario, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen. Here are some delicious apple recipes to try this season:
Apple Cider Donuts
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 cup apple cider
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, egg, and apple cider. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms. Pipe the batter into donut shapes and fry until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Autumn Apple Salad
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup diced apples (Cortland or Empire work well)
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced walnuts
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinaigrette
Combine mixed greens, diced apples, celery, walnuts, and blue cheese in a bowl. Drizzle with apple cider vinaigrette and toss to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Conclusion
Ontario’s apple season is a time of celebration, with a wide range of delicious apple varieties available from August to November. By understanding the different apple varieties, their flavor profiles, and textures, you can make the most of your apple-picking experience. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and crunchy apples or tart and tangy ones, there’s an apple variety in Ontario that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, visit your local apple orchard, and indulge in the crunchy delights of the season!
What are the best apples to eat fresh in Ontario during the summer season?
During the summer season in Ontario, some of the best apples to eat fresh include Paula Red, Zestar, and Jersey Mac. These varieties are known for their sweet flavor and crisp texture, making them perfect for snacking. Paula Red apples are also great for salads, while Zestar apples have a hint of citrus flavor that pairs well with cheese.
Jersey Mac apples are another popular choice for fresh eating, with their sweet-tart flavor and firm texture. They’re also great for making applesauce and apple butter. When choosing apples for fresh eating, look for varieties that are in season and have a good balance of sweetness and acidity. This will ensure that you get the best flavor and texture out of your apples.
What are some popular apple varieties in Ontario that are great for baking?
Ontario is home to many apple varieties that are perfect for baking, including McIntosh, Empire, and Cortland. McIntosh apples are a classic choice for pies and crisps, with their soft flesh and sweet-tart flavor. Empire apples are also great for baking, with their sweet flavor and crisp texture. Cortland apples are another popular choice, with their sweet flavor and tender flesh.
When choosing apples for baking, look for varieties that hold their shape well when cooked. McIntosh and Empire apples are great choices because they retain their texture and flavor even when cooked. Cortland apples are also a good choice, but they can become slightly soft when cooked. Experiment with different varieties to find the one that works best for your favorite recipes.
Can I grow my own apples in Ontario, and if so, what are some good varieties for beginners?
Yes, you can grow your own apples in Ontario! The province has a climate that is well-suited for growing apples, with cold winters and warm summers. For beginners, some good varieties to try include Red Delicious, Gala, and Fuji. These varieties are easy to grow and maintain, and they produce delicious fruit.
When growing apples in Ontario, make sure to choose varieties that are disease-resistant and suitable for the local climate. Red Delicious, Gala, and Fuji apples are all good choices because they are resistant to common apple diseases and can thrive in Ontario’s climate. Also, be sure to plant multiple trees to ensure proper cross-pollination, as most apple varieties require cross-pollination to produce fruit.
What is the best way to store apples to keep them fresh for a longer period?
The best way to store apples is in a cool, dry place with good ventilation. This will help to slow down the ripening process and keep the apples fresh for a longer period. You can store apples in a basement or root cellar, or even in a garage or shed. Just make sure that the area is cool and dry, and that the apples are not exposed to direct sunlight.
Another way to keep apples fresh is to store them in the refrigerator. This will help to slow down the ripening process even further, and keep the apples fresh for several weeks. Just be sure to keep the apples away from strong-smelling foods, as they can absorb odors easily. You can also store apples in a fruit bowl on the counter, but they will typically only last for a few days.
Can I use apples that are past their prime for cooking and baking?
Yes, you can use apples that are past their prime for cooking and baking. In fact, many apple varieties are better suited for cooking and baking than they are for fresh eating. Apples that are past their prime may be softer and more mealy than fresh apples, but they still have plenty of flavor and texture.
When using apples that are past their prime, be sure to adjust the amount of sugar and spices in your recipe accordingly. Softer apples may release more liquid during cooking, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe. You can also use apples that are past their prime to make applesauce, apple butter, and other cooked apple products.
What are some popular apple festivals and events in Ontario?
Ontario is home to many popular apple festivals and events, including the Norfolk County Fair and the Ottawa Valley Apple Festival. The Norfolk County Fair takes place in October and features apple-themed activities, including an apple pie-eating contest and an apple cider-making demonstration.
The Ottawa Valley Apple Festival takes place in September and features apple-themed activities, including an apple harvest festival and an apple cider-making workshop. There are also many other apple festivals and events throughout the province, including the Apple Harvest Festival in Brighton and the Apple Cider Festival in Prince Edward County.
Can I visit apple orchards in Ontario and pick my own apples?
Yes, you can visit apple orchards in Ontario and pick your own apples. Many apple orchards throughout the province offer pick-your-own apple options, where you can choose from a variety of apple varieties and pick them right from the trees. This is a great way to experience the apple harvest firsthand and get some fresh air and exercise.
When visiting an apple orchard, be sure to call ahead to confirm their hours and availability. Many orchards also offer other activities, such as hayrides, pumpkin patches, and farm markets. Some popular apple orchards in Ontario include the Applewood Farm in Stouffville and the Chudleigh’s Apple Farm in Milton.