National Apricot Day (January 9)
Apricots may not be the first fruit that comes to mind in January, but National Apricot Day gives us a reason to appreciate these small, golden fruits.
Whether eaten fresh, dried, or turned into delicious recipes, apricots are a sweet and nutritious treat.
This day celebrates the fruit’s rich history, nutritional benefits, and culinary versatility.
So, if you’re looking for a reason to enjoy something fruity this winter, this holiday is the perfect excuse. Plus, it’s just one of the many weird holidays in January!
When is the Holiday?
National Apricot Day falls on January 9th every year. It’s a fun way to celebrate this tasty fruit even though it’s not in season in many parts of the world.
Who Invented It?
The origins of the holiday are unclear. Like many quirky food holidays, it likely started as a way to promote apricots and their many uses. Regardless of how it began, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy this delicious fruit in new and creative ways.
The History of National Apricot Day
We’re not entirely sure why January 9 was chosen to honor apricots, but we do know that apricots have a long history.
Thought to have originated in Asia around 2000 BC, they were later introduced to Greece by Alexander the Great.
European colonists eventually brought apricots to North America, where they continue to thrive.
Apricots are hardy, easy to preserve, and packed with nutrients.
The trees can grow up to 45 feet tall. These small fruits are rich in Vitamin A, iron, calcium, and fiber, making them both delicious and healthy.
Top 5 Facts About Apricots
- Apricots belong to the same family as peaches, cherries, and almonds.
- The name “apricot” comes from the Latin word praecoquum, meaning “early ripening.”
- Apricots have been cultivated for over 4,000 years.
- Over 4 million tons of apricots are produced worldwide each year.
- The U.S. state of California produces most of the country’s apricots.
Activities to Celebrate
- Eat fresh or dried apricots – Enjoy them on their own or pair them with nuts and cheese for a balanced snack.
- Try a new apricot recipe – Bake an apricot tart, make a savory dish with apricots, or blend them into a smoothie.
- Learn more about apricot farming – Research how apricots are grown and their impact on different cultures.
- Plant an apricot tree – If you have the right climate, growing an apricot tree can be rewarding and sustainable.
- Host an apricot-themed gathering – Prepare apricot-inspired dishes and share the love of this fruit with friends and family.
- Make homemade apricot preserves – A great way to enjoy apricots all year long.
Related Recipes for National Apricot Day
Looking for tasty ways to celebrate? Try these delicious apricot recipes:
- Jam Filled Cookies. Buttery shortbread cookies with a sweet apricot jam filling, perfect for tea time.
- Apricot-Chocolate Chip Ice Cream. Creamy vanilla ice cream with bits of dried apricots and chocolate chips for a delightful contrast of flavors.
- Apricot Kuchen. A light and fluffy German butter cake topped with juicy dried or fresh apricots.
- Apricot Frangipane Tart. A delicate tart filled with almond cream and layered with fresh apricots for a nutty, sweet combination.
- Apricot Parmesan Puff Pastry Pinwheels. Crispy, flaky puff pastry rolled with apricot jam, parmesan cheese, and fresh rosemary for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
- Instant Pot Chicken Tagine with Apricots. A Moroccan-inspired dish with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and sweet apricots for a bold and hearty meal.
- Healthy Hydrating Apricot Smoothie. A blend of apricots, coconut water, and banana for a refreshing and nutritious drink.
- Vegan Apricot Cake. A plant-based twist on the traditional Austrian Marillenkuchen, featuring a moist sponge and juicy apricots.
- No Bake Cheesecake with Apricot Crust. A creamy cheesecake with a unique crust made of dried apricots and walnuts, adding a natural sweetness.
- Apricot Ginger Chicken Wings. Baked wings coated in a sticky apricot ginger glaze for a tangy and slightly spicy kick.
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Links to Resources
Looking for apricot-inspired products? Check out these recommendations:
- Apricot Jam. A high-quality apricot preserve perfect for spreading on toast, mixing into yogurt, or baking into desserts.
- Dried Apricots. A naturally sweet and chewy snack packed with fiber and essential vitamins, great for hiking or adding to granola.
- Bitter Apricot Kernels. These nutrient-dense kernels are often used in holistic health practices and can add a unique flavor to recipes.
- Apricot Oil. A versatile oil known for its moisturizing properties, perfect for skin and hair care or as a mild cooking oil.
Related Holidays
- Chocolate Covered Cherry Day (January 3)
- Fruitcake Toss Day (January 3)
- National Almond Day (February 16)
- National Chocolate Covered Raisins Day (March 24)
- National Cherry Dessert Day (May 26)
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