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The
California Apricot harvest usually begins the first week
of May and end last week of June. Then Washington fruit comes
to the market to take us into August.
Selection
of apricots really depends on personal preference. If you
prefer firm tart “cots” pick them firm with full
yellow color. A mild red blush is found on some varieties,
but is not an indication of maturity or ripeness. Absence
of green is the first sign of maturity and a mild give is
an indication of ripeness. For full flavor a soft cot is
best. Buy the and use them because they ripen and break down
fast.
Fifteen
varieties are harvested for the commercial market with several
other varieties found at farmers markets and specialty produce
stands. Here in California the Blenhiem variety is anticipated
by apricot lovers with a very short season of just a few
weeks in mid - late June. It ripens fast and soft with a
very short shelf life, but the flavor is incredible. Get ‘em
while you can.
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