Apricots may seem like the road trip food of choice when you peruse through the isles of dried fruits in the gas station and convenience stores, but their possibilities can range throughout the culinary and beverage world. While other stone fruits have a more pungent floral and sweeter flavor, apricots stand out as both tart and sweet with a more intense flavor. This distinction makes apricots better suited for prepared foods and dishes.
Open your industry to an expanded range of products by utilizing the underappreciated apricot and its unique flavor. Learn more on how to best apply Northwest Naturals’ apricot juice to your product by reading more below.
Northwest Naturals Products Available:
- Apricot JC (Juice Concentrate)
- Apricot Puree Concentrate
- Apricot JC WONF (Juice Concentrate with Other Natural Flavors)
*We do not offer organic apricot currently.
Want to blend an apricot flavor with more products for a custom flavor? Contact us!
Harvesting
Apricot harvesting season is from late spring through late summer, though ideal from June to mid-August.
Overall, it’s reliable unless a client requests a domestic apricot. We can source from several places, but USA-grown apricots are in limited supply. Contact us, and we can work with you to get you the ingredients you need.
Flavor Profile
Apricots are sweet with a distinct tarty taste and are not overly juicy. They taste almost like a cross between a peach and a plum.
Pairing Suggestions
Apricots are fairly versatile, especially for those looking for added complexity in their applications. The sweet tartness is a unique flavor that will leave both your savory-loving and sweet-toothed clientele wanting more. See below for pairing suggestions.
Fruits: apple, pear, banana, berries, cherry, cranberry, citrus, mango, passion fruit, peach, pineapple, plum, rhubarb
Spices / Herbs: allspice, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin, ginger, nutmeg, saffron, basil, mint, rosemary, thyme, vanilla
Dairy: cream cheese, whipped cream, Brie, yogurt, goat cheese
Savory: lamb, chicken, pork, salmon
Nuts / Seeds: almond, hazelnut, pecan, pistachio, walnut, pumpkin seeds, pine nuts
Other: caramel, coffee, honey, chocolate
Applications for Apricots
Apricots are fairly versatile. It is delicious in beverages and smoothies, jams, sauces, chutneys, and salsas. They also work well in savory applications. Apricot is excellent paired with mild cheese, and salted/cured meats, and is the perfect addition to charcuterie boards. It can be added to salads to add sweet and tart complexity, and bright yellow and orange color.
No matter what your business specializes in, apricots are an effortless way to expand your products and elevate your existing flavors to your clientele.
For those who specialize in alcohol and spirits, we highly recommend creating apricot liquor, crafting an apricot ginger whisky sour, a spicy apricot margarita, or an apricot and honey bourbon sour cocktail. This fruit is deliciously versatile.
Pack them into sweet treats to create a delightful flavor that satisfies a sweet tooth and a sour lover. Treats can include apricot crumble squares, lemon apricot french toast, apricot frosting, apricot cheesecake, sorbet, and more!
If you prefer savory applications, try an apricot mint chicken, grilled sausages with dijon apricot mustard, or smoky tomato apricot barbecue sauce. Get creative, and the rewards will be worth it!
Find additional application ideas for apricot applications and more on our website.
Request a Juice Sample Today!
Ready to craft your next bestseller? Request free juice samples and order products by creating a free Northwest Naturals account. It is a quick and easy way to gain a team of specialists ready to support all your flavor needs. Get started on your next crowd-pleaser, and request a free sample today!