The Gala apple is known for its splashy colors, sweet taste, and loud crunch. It’s more than just a party in your mouth – it’s also nutritious. Don’t overlook this versatile fruit in the produce aisle.
What is a Gala apple?
Gala is a widely grown apple variety available year-round from suppliers in the northern and southern hemispheres. It can be grown in temperate and warm regions and is considered a low-chill variety.
Gala crosses Kidd’s Orange Red and Golden Delicious, combining three essential apple varieties. While the flavor may not fully meet expectations, Gala is still a high-quality apple that can deliver good taste when homegrown.
The color of Gala apples is similar to a Cox-type variety, starting with light orange streaks over yellow and maturing into a solid red color.
The color can indicate the age of the apple in supermarkets, with very pale ones likely being from the new season’s crop and very dark ones having matured over a long period.
Comparing Gala to Freyberg, another apple variety developed by the same grower in New Zealand, allows for examining the effects of Cox’s aromatic qualities on the sweet flavor of Golden Delicious.
Due to its widespread cultivation and good storage capabilities, Gala apples can be found for sale from both northern and southern hemisphere suppliers around April/May and September/October, respectively.
Buying southern hemisphere Galas after April and northern hemisphere Galas after September is recommended.
Galas from South Africa and New Zealand taste fresher and crisper than those from Brazil, while French Galas are generally better than UK or Italian ones. Regardless of the source, Galas are usually pleasant and easy to eat.
Where are Gala apples from?
Is Gala apple artificial?
The very first Gala apple tree, a popular variety today, originated from many seedlings that emerged after a successful cross-pollination between the Golden Delicious and Kidd’s Orange Red apple trees.
It was during the 1930s when J.H. Kidd, an orchardist from New Zealand, carried out this breeding experiment. The fruitful result was remarkable, giving birth to the exceptional Gala apple.
Fast forward several decades, and we find Donald W. McKenzie, an employee of Stark Bros Nursery, playing a crucial role in securing a United States plant patent for this extraordinary apple cultivar on October 15, 1974.
With its sweet and crisp flavor profile, the Gala apple has since become widely cherished by enthusiasts worldwide.
Why is Gala Apple named?
The Gala apple, hailing from New Zealand, is a delightful blend of Kidd’s Orange, Red, and Golden Delicious varieties.
The Royal Gala strain received its regal title in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, who declared it her preferred apple during a visit to New Zealand.
Different Types of Gala Apples
The extensive list of Gala varieties includes Annaglo, Galaxy, Regala, Tenroy, Mondial Gala, and Royal Gala. These names are associated with either sports or tradenames, making them all part of the Gala family.
It is worth mentioning that some apple enthusiasts disregard supermarket types like Gala, deeming them as lackluster and unexciting.
Their skepticism is reasonable, as these varieties often fail to deliver the bold flavors and unique characteristics that apple connoisseurs seek.
Types of Gala apples
Royal Gala Apple Variety
The Royal Gala apple ripens in Southeastern Wisconsin in mid-September. Gala apples are easy to grow at home and require less care and pruning than other varieties.
Gala apples are unique due to their sweet taste and distinctive appearance. We have also highlighted some critical sub-varieties, which are mostly similar, although they have slight differences in color, size, and flavor.
Apple Mondial Gala
The Mondial Gala is a widespread variety of apples known for its crisp texture and medium to large size.
This juicy, sweet fruit is a delight to the taste buds with its vibrant red-orange color set against a yellow background. It’s an apple variety that ripens in mid-season, boasting a high yield and a long shelf life.
The Gala apple variety is exceptional in the Turkish palate, making it highly popular in this region. It is available directly from the orchard between the first weeks of August and September.
Moreover, these apples can be stored in cold storage until January, maintaining their freshness and flavor. If stored in controlled atmosphere warehouses, they can retain their freshness until August, as if they were picked off the tree that day.
Annaglo Apple
The Annaglo apple, a variant of the Gala apple, originates from Nelson, New Zealand. Its characteristics include:
- Size: It is typically small to medium in size.
- Color: The Annaglo boasts an early color progression. It displays a cherry red blush covering 80 – 100% of its surface, with a lighter underlying stripe. A visible lenticil bar is also present.
- Texture & Flavor: The sweetness of the Annaglo is similar to that of the Royal Gala.
- Harvest Time: Harvest of the Annaglo usually takes place from mid-February to early March.
- Storage: It can be stored like the Royal Gala.
- Shape: The Annaglo is generally round in shape.
This apple variety is ideal for regions where well-colored fruit can yield early premiums or where achieving color development is challenging.
A virus-free selection of this variety is available and is recognized for its stability.
Gala Galaxy
Gala Galaxy is an apple variety that resembles Gala but has a more vibrant red color. Its bright orange-red flesh is adorned with striking red stripes over a golden background, complemented by subtle russet dots that add to its overall appearance.
The medium-sized fruit has noticeable ribbing and a regal crown on top. The cavity, which is medium in size, is lined with russet, giving it an interesting texture.
The long and thin stalk is another characteristic of this variety. You’ll be met with creamy flesh with a delightful cream color when you bite.
The taste of Gala Galaxy is truly something special – rich, honeyed, and incredibly juicy. In fact, it even hints at the aromatic quality often associated with Kidd’s Orange Red apples.
This exceptional variety is grown in all significant apple regions, making it accessible to apple lovers worldwide.
How do Gala apples taste?
Gala apples, with their desirable characteristics, are often seen as a great deal due to the excellent value they provide.
These apples are renowned for their delightful sweetness and crispness, making them a top choice for snacking or incorporating into a wide range of recipes.
The fact that they can be enjoyed in their raw and cooked forms only adds to their appeal, as they can effortlessly enhance the flavors of salads, pies, sauces, and countless other culinary creations.
With Gala apples, you genuinely get a versatile fruit that satisfies your taste buds and offers excellent value for your money.
How healthy are Gala apples?
Gala apples, known for their vibrant red color and sweet taste, are a delightful addition to any fruit basket. These apples have been found to contain high levels of polyphenols, which are beneficial compounds that contribute to their health-promoting properties.
According to research, Gala apples consistently exhibit this polyphenol content throughout their ripening stages. In fact, one specific type of polyphenol called catechin stands out as the predominant compound in these delicious fruits.
However, the benefits of Gala apples extend beyond their pleasing flavor and polyphenol content. They have also been linked to potential protection against heart disease, a leading cause of mortality worldwide.
By targeting and reducing the main risk factors associated with heart disease, Gala apples may play a significant role in maintaining cardiovascular health.
A noteworthy study conducted on 46 individuals over 6 weeks unveiled intriguing results. Participants who consumed three Gala apples per day experienced a reduction in obesity-associated inflammation, a condition closely tied to an increased risk of heart disease.
This finding suggests that incorporating Gala apples into one’s diet could mitigate the detrimental effects of inflammation and contribute to long-term heart health.
Furthermore, ongoing research has explored the impact of Gala apple juice on heart health using animal models. A 13-day study involving mice discovered that consuming Gala apple juice led to a significant decrease in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
Simultaneously, there was an increase in HDL (good) cholesterol levels, which is beneficial for cardiovascular well-being. These findings shed light on the positive influence of Gala apples and their potential role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
Although these preliminary findings are promising, it is essential to note that larger-scale human studies are required to solidify these conclusions.
Researchers continue to investigate the potential benefits of Gala apples and their impact on heart health. In the meantime, incorporating these delectable fruits into your diet may be a flavorful way to support your overall cardiovascular well-being.
How to preserve Gala apples?
What is the best way to preserve Gala apples?
If you’re wondering about the most effective method to keep your delicious Gala apples fresh and preserved, there are a few approaches you can consider.
One option is to pack your apples into containers, pressing the fruit down gently while leaving around ½ inch (13 mm) of space at the top. This will allow for expansion during freezing. Afterward, seal the containers securely and place them in the freezer.
Another technique you can try is called dry packing. This involves following the same steps as the sugar pack method but without adding sugar. By omitting the sugar, you can still preserve the apples without any additional sweetness.
Alternatively, you can treat your apple slices before freezing them. To do this, freeze the pieces on a tray until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer the slices into containers and pack them tightly. This will help maintain their shape and prevent any damage during storage.
By employing these strategies, you’ll be able to preserve your cherished Gala apples for more extended periods, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavor and crispness whenever you desire.
How do you keep Gala apples fresh?
It is recommended to adopt a few simple yet effective measures to ensure the freshness of your delightful Gala apples.
Firstly, keeping these succulent fruits cool is advised, as lower temperatures play a crucial role in preserving their crispness and delicious taste.
One practical approach is to place the apples in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. However, it is essential to note that enclosing them in a plastic bag with tiny holes or gently covering them with a damp paper towel can further enhance their longevity.
This protective shield helps create an optimal environment for the apples, shielding them from excessive moisture while maintaining the necessary humidity level.
It is essential to exercise caution and avoid storing other vegetables alongside the Gala apples, as these fruits emit ethylene gas.
If exposed to neighboring produce, this natural gas can accelerate the decay process and compromise the quality of other fruits and vegetables.
By adhering to these simple guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your Gala apples and relish their delectable flavor for an even more extended period.
Should I store Gala apples in the fridge?
When choosing the best apples to store, you can’t go wrong with Granny Smith, Red Delicious, Fuji, Gala, and Golden Delicious.
These varieties are known for their excellent keeping qualities, ensuring you can enjoy their crispness and flavor for extended periods.
Here are some helpful tips to make the most out of your apple storage: Start by storing unwashed apples in the coldest part of your refrigerator.
This will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from spoiling too quickly. Ideally, your refrigerator should be set at 33 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit, providing the optimal conditions for apple preservation.
Additionally, having some humidity in the refrigerator is beneficial, as this helps reduce the risk of the apples shriveling up.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your apples stay fresh and delicious for an extended period, allowing you to savor their delightful taste whenever you please.
Can you freeze Gala apples?
When it comes to freezing apples, opt for sweeter varieties like Fujis or Galas, as they retain their flavor better than tart ones.
However, it’s worth noting that any apple can be stored in the freezer for six to nine months. While flavor preservation is a crucial consideration, it’s also essential to acknowledge that freezing alters the texture of the apple.
As a result, the once crisp and juicy flesh becomes slightly spongier when thawed, differing from the surface of a freshly picked apple.
How do you keep Gala apples from turning brown?
If you have a batch of fresh and juicy Gala apples and you’re wondering how to keep them from undergoing the unsightly browning process, fret not!
There is a simple and effective solution that will maintain their vibrant appearance for more extended periods. The tried-and-true method involves immersing the cut fruit in a revitalizing saltwater solution.
To create this magical concoction, combine half a teaspoon of kosher salt with every cup of water. Allow the apple slices to luxuriate in this invigorating bath for a delightful duration of 10 minutes.
Once they have experienced the rejuvenating effects, carefully drain the water from the apples and store them away until the opportune moment arrives to utilize their crisp and delicious potential.
By following this sage advice, you can savor the delightful hue of your Gala apples for an extended period without worrying about their disheartening transformation into a dull shade of brown. Enjoy the beauty and freshness of your apples to the fullest!
How long do Gala apples last at room temperature?
When stored at room temperature, gala apples have a shelf life of approximately 5 to 7 days. During this time, it is essential to note that the quality and nutritional value of the apples gradually decline.
Their flavor and freshness diminish, leading to a less enjoyable eating experience. In addition, the texture of the apples may change, with a tendency to fade or become mushy. As a result, individuals generally prefer to discard these apples rather than consume them.
How long do Gala apples last in the fridge?
Gala apples are a popular variety known for their delicious taste and stunning crimson coloration. If you’re wondering how long you can keep these delightful apples in the fridge, you’ll be pleased to know that they can last for up to six months with proper storage.
This means you can enjoy their crispness and flavor for an extended period. Whether raw or cooked, Gala apples will satisfy your taste buds. So, stock up on these delightful fruits and savor their sweetness all year round!
Conclude
Gala apples are a distinctive fruit, characterized by their small to medium size and easily recognizable by their vibrant yellow-orange to red-pink coloration on their thin skin. This apple variety exudes a perfumed, floral aroma and boasts a mildly sweet flavor with a hint of acidity, creating a unique taste profile.
Their structure includes firm, aqueous flesh that is ivory to pale yellow in color, providing a crisp texture. Furthermore, Gala apples offer a complex flavor with vanilla, apple blossoms, and pears undertones. Therefore, they are an excellent choice for direct consumption and serve as a perfect ingredient for various culinary applications.