Golden apples (Quinces, scientific name Cydonia oblonga), also called quinces, are an ancient and versatile fruit that are usually used in cooking and making jams, juices and pastries.
Appearance features
Golden apples are golden to light yellow in appearance, usually round or slightly pear-shaped in shape, with a shiny surface and thick and hard skin. The pulp is usually solid, lumpy, hard and sticky in texture, and has a pale yellow to pink color.
Origin and distribution
Golden apples originated in West Asia and are currently mainly grown in the Mediterranean, the Middle East, Europe and North Africa. They typically grow in mild climates, preferring full sun and well-drained soil.
The origin of golden apples is the Caucasus (the area between the Caspian and Black Seas) and northern Persia. The golden apple is even believed to be the catalyst for the Trojan War. Since then, the use of golden apples in cooking spread to medieval banquet halls and beyond. Today, the golden apple is popular in tropical regions of Latin America and Mexico, where it has maintained its popularity and integrated into Western food and culinary culture.
use
Golden apples are mainly used in cooking and making jams, juices, fruit wines, dried fruits and pastries. Because their flesh is rich in pectin, golden apples are great at thickening and improving texture during cooking. The pulp also has a unique sweet-sour taste and is suitable for making a variety of desserts and pastries.
Calories and Nutritional Value
Golden apples are a nutritious fruit with very low caloric density. It is also a great source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. This fruit contains tannins such as catechin and epicatechin and contains very high concentrations of vitamin C. Papaya is also a good source of calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium and copper.
health benefits
relieve constipation
Papaya is a fruit that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to relieve constipation. Its high fiber content helps increase stool bulk and facilitates bowel movements. It also contains pectin, a soluble fiber that softens stool and promotes regularity. Quinces are a natural source of sorbitol, which acts as a laxative. In ancient times, papaya seeds were considered to have medicinal properties and were used to treat digestive problems. Even today, people use papaya seeds to relieve ailments such as diarrhea, constipation, and indigestion. Studies show that papaya seed extract can relax intestinal muscles and prevent constipation. That being said, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
It is rich in antioxidants
Papaya fruit is rich in antioxidants that prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can damage cells and cause disease. Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals by donating electrons. Papaya is particularly rich in caffeoylquinic acid, a potent phenolic antioxidant that scavenges free radicals, protects cells, reduces inflammation and inhibits the formation of new free radicals. Studies show that this compound may even help prevent or treat chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Papaya also provides high amounts of vitamin C, which can strengthen the immune system and fight infections.
Prevent infection
Papaya fruit has powerful antibacterial properties, although it is often overlooked. Compounds such as pectin, quercetin, and kaempferol found in papaya have been shown to be effective in fighting bacteria. In fact, papaya has been found to fight Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that can cause stomach ulcers. One study showed that quince juice significantly reduced the number of Helicobacter pylori colonies. Additionally, papaya fruit and seed extract may provide protection against other strains of bacteria, such as Enterobacter aerogenes, E. coli, Klebsiella and Staphylococcus aureus.
Promote heart health
Papaya is good for heart health due to its high antioxidant content, which protects the heart from damage caused by free radicals. It also contains soluble fiber called pectin, which helps lower cholesterol levels and lowers the risk of heart disease. The ellagitannins in papaya have anti-inflammatory properties that may further reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, a laboratory study found that quince leaf and fruit extracts can lower blood pressure, another factor in heart disease.
Drinking papaya tea can prevent gastroesophageal reflux.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is when stomach contents, including stomach acid and digestive juices, flow into the esophagus, causing heartburn, chest pain, and burping. A natural remedy for gastroesophageal reflux is quince, which is rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that absorbs stomach acid and reduces inflammation caused by reflux. Papaya also has a high water content, which can dilute stomach contents and reduce esophageal irritation. In addition, golden apples can increase saliva production, which contains bicarbonate that neutralizes gastric acid. This prevents gastroesophageal reflux symptoms by preventing stomach acid from rising into the esophagus. Golden apples are recommended to be consumed on an empty stomach or 30 minutes before meals and can be cooked, candied or consumed as golden apple tea.
Support wound healing
Quinces have been traditionally used to heal wounds and improve skin conditions. Animal studies show it can promote wound healing, while one study found golden apple extract ointment to be effective in treating superficial wounds. This is because golden apples contain vitamin C, which helps produce collagen, which is used to repair and strengthen blood vessels, skin, and tissues. Vitamin C can also reduce inflammation and help heal faster. Golden apple fruit is rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect cells and promote healing. In addition, golden apples provide other essential nutrients such as vitamins A, E and zinc. Additionally, golden apples have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that prevent infection and speed healing. Apply golden apple pulp directly to wounds, make a poultice, take supplements, or drink golden apple juice regularly to speed healing.
strengthen immune system
Quinces are known for their ability to strengthen the immune system and increase resistance to infection and disease. This is because of its high antioxidant content, which protects cells from damage and reduces the risk of infection. Golden apple fruit is also rich in vitamin C, which not only protects cells but also supports the production of white blood cells, an important part of the immune system. In addition, golden apples provide essential vitamins and minerals such as zinc, iron, and folate, which contribute to a healthy immune system. Pectin, a type of fiber found in golden apples, promotes the growth of good gut bacteria, aids digestion and protects against harmful bacteria. In addition, golden apples contain nutrients such as vitamins A, E, and zinc, which speed wound healing, and have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that prevent infection and promote faster healing. Golden apple can be applied directly to wounds, made into a poultice, or taken in supplement or juice form to speed up the healing process.
Finally, golden apple fruit is rich in vitamins A and E. These vitamins are important for skin health and can affect the body's ability to fight infections. Healthy skin provides a barrier that prevents harmful bacteria from entering the body.
Is it really bad to have a golden apple?
There are several reasons why you shouldn't eat raw golden apples. First, the fruit is tough and fibrous. It's hard to bite down and even harder to digest.
Plus, golden apples are naturally sour. It's best cooked or added to other dishes to help the flavor mellow. Additionally, raw quinces contain compounds called cyanogenic glycosides. When ingested, these compounds release cyanide gas, which is harmful in large amounts. Therefore, it is best to err on the side of caution and cook your golden apples before eating them.
How to cook golden apples
Since golden apples are rich in pectin, they are most commonly found in the form of jam, jelly, marmalade, or preserves. It can also be baked in the oven or, similar to apples and pears, is great in pies, tarts and muffins.
To prepare and cook golden apples, follow these instructions:
- Use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin. According to The Kitchen, if you're making any kind of jelly, leave the skin on.
- Carefully cut each quince in half with a sharp chef's knife - this may be a little difficult due to its toughness.
- Cut each fruit into quarters and cut out the core and seeds.
- Remove any powdery spots.
- After slicing, place each piece of fruit in a bowl of water to prevent browning.
- Pour the water into the pot and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the golden apples and cook until pink and tender, about 40 to 50 minutes.
Economic Value
Although golden apples are not as common as other fruits in some areas, they are still one of the important agricultural products in some areas, bringing considerable economic income to local farmers. In addition, golden apples are also widely used in food processing and manufacturing.
In general
Golden apples are a versatile fruit with rich nutritional value and a unique sweet and sour taste. They are widely used in the fields of cooking and food processing, bringing a variety of choices to people's daily diet and life.
