Why do apples sometimes taste bitter?
I sometimes come across apples that taste very bitter (not sour like a granny smith, but more like tannin). This is maybe one in 10 or 15 apples. It doesn't seem to be restricted to a certain variety (I've tasted it in pink lady, opal, honeycrisp and some I've forgotten). Sometimes it's just one, and sometimes it's a whole batch. Washing doesn't remove the flavor
Google search suggestions show other people have noticed this too, but I can't find a good answer as to why. It seems too common to me to not have a good answer though; maybe it's something only some people can taste, like cilantro tasting soapy or cyanide smelling like almonds?
Best Answer
We have an old variety apple tree, similar to Yellow Transparent, of uncertain origin. When ripe - that is, the flesh has softened to edibility and sweetness has developed - the skins provide a highly tannic note. Removing the skins before using the apples in cooking dramatically reduces the tannins.
Pictures about "Why do apples sometimes taste bitter?"
Quick Answer about "Why do apples sometimes taste bitter?"
Some varieties of apples are naturally bitter; this is because the skin of the apple contains high levels of a substance called tannin. Alternatively, your apples might be bitter because they have a condition called bitter pip. All apples have tannin in them, but the amount varies according to the type of apple.Are apples supposed to be bitter?
Bitter pit is a disease that reveals itself only well after picking, when the apple develops patches of black-brown dead spots. These are not dangerous to anyone eating the apple, but do make the fruit unappealing.Can you eat an apple with bitter pit?
Q Can I still eat apples affected by bitter pit? A Yes, although if the bitter pit is extensive the fruit may be unpalatable. Fruit with bitter pit does not store well, as the damaged areas tend to rot.What causes the bitter taste in fruit?
\u200bCauses of bitter fruit The bitterness is caused by chemicals, called cucurbitacins, that are always present in the roots, leaves, and stems of these plants. When the plant becomes overly stressed, it increases the production of cucurbitacins, which then make their way into the fruit.How do you make apples less bitter?
What you do: Slice the apple and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. The salt heightens the flavor and naturally brings out the sweetness in the fruit.Identifying and Treating Apple Tree Diseases | Bitter Pit
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Artem Beliaikin, Kaboompics .com, Andres Ayrton, Monstera