A newfound and rare apple variety has recently come to light, thriving atop the mountain peaks of Australia.
Dubbed after the mountain range where its existence was first documented, the Snowy Mountains apple is renowned for its snow-white flesh, firm texture, and a delightful balance between tartness and sweetness. Its crisp crunch and juicy mouthfeel bear similarities to well-loved apple varieties such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
The Snowy Mountains apple boasts an intriguing history. Local legends suggest that Chinese gold miners introduced this apple to Australia during the gold rush era in the 1800s. It’s said that they planted apple seeds on the mountainsides where they settled, and over time, the fruit adapted to the harsh mountainous climate.
Despite its longstanding history, the Snowy Mountains apple remained relatively obscure until a few years ago when a group of apple enthusiasts stumbled upon this unique fruit during a hiking expedition. Since then, it has garnered a devoted following among food aficionados and chefs alike. These culinary enthusiasts are constantly pushing the boundaries by experimenting with innovative recipes that make the most of the Snowy Mountains apple’s distinctive qualities.
Among the numerous ways in which the Snowy Mountains apple is embraced, using it in pies and pastries stands out as particularly popular. Its firm texture and harmonious tart-sweet flavor make it an ideal filling for pies and tarts, while its snow-white flesh adds an element of novelty to traditional apple-based desserts. This versatile apple also frequently finds its way into salads, sauces, and even as a unique topping for pizzas and flatbreads.
Beyond its culinary virtues, the Snowy Mountains apple boasts impressive nutritional credentials. Loaded with antioxidants, dietary fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this apple variety provides a wholesome package. Its white flesh is also a source of polyphenols, compounds associated with a spectrum of health benefits, including a potentially reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
