The Zestar! apples is definitely one of the most popular apples we grow at the orchard. It's on five of the seven top apple list for the Lapacek family. And I'm pretty sure if I gave folks more than five top apples it would have made every list.
Approximate Ripening Date: August 17th
Flavor: Juicy with a light, crisp (but not hard) texture and a sprightly sweet-tart taste with a hint of brown sugar. Excellent for fresh eating. If you like the Honeycrisp I recommend starting your apple season by trying the Zestar! They will happily hold you over until the Honeycrisp are ripe.
Baking: The Zestar! doesn't quite keep it's shape but it doesn't mush completely either when baked. Definitely a good flavor in your cooking.
History: State Fair x MN 1691 released by the University of Minnesota in 1999.
Featured Recipe:
Chicken-Apple Pot Pie
also good with turkey
2 C cubed peeled apple 1/4 C chopped onion 2 T. butter 2 cans chicken soup 2 C cubed cold chicken 1/3 C raisins (optional) 1/4 t. nutmeg Pastry for a one crust pie Sauté onion in butter until golden. Mix with remaining ingredients and put in an oiled casserole or loaf dish. Top with crust. Cut vent holes in crust. Bake at 425 degrees, 30 minutes.
