Starking Apple: Discover its Origins and Health Benefits
The Starking apple, a fruit of intense red color with green and yellow stripes, boasts a unique conical shape and five protuberances around the eye. Its thin skin, coated with wax for extra shine, envelops a white, firm, juicy, and crunchy pulp with a sweet and aromatic flavor, complemented by a slight acidic touch.
Origin and Distribution of Starking Apple: From the United States to Spain
Originally from the United States as a mutation of the Red Delicious, the Starking is linked to the Stark Brothers nursery in Louisiana (Missouri). Introduced to Europe in the 1950s, it has thrived in Spain, especially in Bierzo (León) and Valle del Jerte (Cáceres).
Properties and Health Benefits of Starking Apple
This fruit is a nutrient treasure, rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Its diuretic, purifying, anti-inflammatory, and intestinal transit-regulating properties contribute to preventing cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cholesterol, and cancer. Additionally, it improves oral health, vision, and the immune system.
Versatility in the Kitchen: Recipes and Culinary Combinations with Starking Apple
Its versatility makes it a gem in the kitchen. It can be enjoyed alone as a snack or used in sweet or savory recipes, from pies and cakes to compotes, jams, juices, and cider. It pairs wonderfully with cheeses, salads, meats, and fish, keeping its pulp fresh for months without easily oxidizing when cut.
Cultivation and Varieties Derived from Starking Apple
It requires a temperate and humid climate, flowering in spring and being harvested between September and October. With its medium to high size, grayish bark, pink and white flowers, and oval and serrated leaves, it is self-sterile, needing pollinators to fruit. Varieties like Courtavel and Starkrimson offer unique characteristics.
Healthy Recipe: Starking Apple and Feta Cheese Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 Starking apples, peeled and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup honey and mustard vinaigrette
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Mix Starking apples, walnuts, and feta cheese in a large bowl.
- Add baby spinach and mix well.
- Pour honey and mustard vinaigrette, making sure to cover all ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Enjoy this delicious salad that highlights the freshness of Starking apple and the benefits of feta cheese!