Spartan apples

Spartan is a Canadian apple variety that's been developed in 1936 in British Columbia by Dr. R. C. Palmer. Its identity is still a mystery, and all that's known is that these apples are a hybrid of McIntosh and an unknown apple variety.

The apples are bright red to dark purple red in color. The flesh is white, and its texture is very juicy. The flavors are sweet, tart, and aromatic, but they become sweeter once stored in a cold place. Available in fall and early winter, Spartans are typically used in cooking and the preparation of desserts because the flesh holds its shape well once cooked.

They can be added to chutneys, fritters, and pies, or transformed into juice and cider. Pair these apples with pork, ginger, onions, walnuts, and blue cheese.