Did you know ?
- 1 Dried apricots have 3x more iron and fiber than fresh ones.
- 2 Armenia considers the apricot its national fruit.
- 3 Some apricot trees can live and produce fruit for over 100 years.
Apricot
Apricots are small, golden-orange stone fruits with velvety skin and sweet-tart flesh. Rich in vitamins A and C, they are enjoyed fresh, dried, or in jams and desserts. Native to Central Asia, apricots thrive in temperate climates worldwide.
View other Stone fruits
Nutrition
Detailed nutritional values of apricots
Section titled “Detailed nutritional values of ”Values of an average apricot (~35g) - raw :
| Calories | 16 kcal |
| Proteins | 0.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| of which sugars | 3g |
| Fiber | 0.7g |
| Fats | 0.1g |
Vitamins and minerals
Main vitamins
Main minerals and trace elements
Nutritional values may vary depending on variety, ripeness, and growing conditions.
Ripeness
How to know if an apricot is ripe ?
Section titled “How to know if is ripe ?”
Perfectly ripe
Soft, fragrant, and sweet with deep orange color.
How to recognize this state :
- Slightly soft when gently squeezed
- Vibrant orange-gold color (some blush for red varieties)
- Sweet, floral aroma
- Easily detaches from the stem
- Juicy, balanced sweet-tart flavor
Advice for ripe products
A perfectly ripe apricot offers the best flavor and texture. Consume it quickly or refrigerate to maintain freshness for 3-5 days.
Selection
How to choose apricots ?
Section titled “How to choose ?”To choose quality apricots at the supermarket or market :
- Look for plump, slightly soft apricots with vibrant color
- Avoid green patches (unless it’s a green-ripe variety)
- Avoid bruises, cuts, or wrinkled skin
- Heavy-for-size apricots tend to be juicier
- Check for a sweet, fruity aroma
Storage and ripening
How to store and ripen apricots ?
Section titled “How to store and ripen ?”How to store apricots ?
- Short-term (3–5 days) : Keep ripe apricots in the fridge.
- Long-term (up to 1 year) : Freeze sliced apricots or dry them.
- Prevent browning : Sprinkle lemon juice if storing cut apricots.
How to ripen apricots ?
If you bought unripe apricots, here's how to speed up the process :
- Place apricots in a paper bag with a ripe banana or apple to speed up the process
- Warm countertop : Leave at room temperature out of direct sunlight
- Rice/bread box trick: Bury them to trap ethylene gas
- Microwave (for fast ripening) : Heat for 10 sec, then rest for 24 hrs
Health
Health benefits of an apricot
Section titled “Health benefits of ”- Strengthens bones (contains calcium & potassium)
- Supports digestion (rich in fiber)
- Improves skin health (antioxidant-rich)
- Anti-inflammatory properties (reduces oxidative stress)
- Aids heart health (lowers cholesterol)
Origin
What is the origin of apricots ?
Section titled “What is the origin of ?”Apricots originated in Central Asia (China, Armenia, and Kazakhstan) over 4,000 years ago. They spread via the Silk Road to Europe and the Mediterranean. Today, Turkey, Iran, Italy, and Uzbekistan are leading producers.
Regions of origin
- China & Central Asia (wild ancestors)
- Armenia (cultivation since ancient times)
- Persia (Iran) (improved sweet varieties)
Recipes
Cook an apricot according to its ripeness
Section titled “Cook according to its ripeness”Unripe
- Apricot chutney
- Green apricot salad
- Apricot-infused vinegar
Perfectly ripe
- Fresh apricot tart
- Apricot-glazed chicken
- Stuffed apricots (with goat cheese & nuts)
Overripe
- Apricot jam
- Apricot liqueur
- Apricot leather (dried fruit roll-ups)
F.A.Q
Frequently asked questions
Section titled “Frequently asked questions”Warnings
Warnings and precautions for apricots
Section titled “Warnings and precautions for ”- Wash apricots thoroughly to remove potential pesticide residues if not organic
- Excess dried apricots may cause bloating (high fiber/sugar)
- Diabetics should monitor intake
- Pits are choking hazards for children and pets
Do not confuse with
Larger, fuzzier, and juicier.
Firmer, darker, and more acidic.
Smooth-skinned, less tart.