Glossary C
Deutsch: Krabbe
A Crab is a decapod crustacean of the infraorder Brachyura, which typically have a very short projecting "tail" (abdomen), usually entirely hidden under the thorax. Crabs live in all the world's oceans, in fresh water, and on land, are generally covered with a thick exoskeleton and have a single pair of claws.
Crab Apple which is also spelled Crabapple is one of the common varieties of apple which are not generally eaten out of hand, but are used more for making jellies and juicing.
Crab Apples are a small heirloom variety that includes hundreds of cultivars. Used more for jellies and juicing, however, some people who likes tart flavor also enjoys this highly tart apple.
Selection Information
Usage: Crabapples are an heirloom apple that is not generally used for jellies and juicing. Some brave souls actually enjoy this highly tart apple.
Selection & Storage: Good-quality Crab apples will be very firm, but won’t have many of the other hallmarks of other apples. They are often scabbed or misshapen can vary in color from almost black, to red and even rich yellow. Test the firmness of the apple by holding it in the palm of your hand. (Do not push with your thumb). It should feel solid and heavy, not soft and light.
To store, keep apples as cold as possible in the refrigerator. Apples do not freeze until the temperature drops to 28.5 degrees F.
Avoid: Avoid product with soft or dark spots. Also if the apple skin wrinkles when you rub your thumb across it, the apple has probably been in cold storage too long or has not been kept cool.
Seasonal Information
Crabapples are some of the first apples available during the fall, but some varieties can stay on the tree until the first frost.
Craisins refers to a a registered trademark brand of dried cranberries made by Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc.