Japanese sweet orin are sweet, aromatic apples, that are said to possess a "true" apple taste. They are a product of the Aomori apple Research Station and come from the same parentage as the Mutsu and Shizuka apples.

The elongated sweet orin apple has a yellow-green skin specked with white lenticels. The skin is strong, making it resistant to bruising. Sweet orin apples have a tropical aroma. It's flesh is a creamy yellow, crisp and juicy with a very fruity flavor combination with hints of pineapple and pear. The orin is low in acid and big on sweetness, earning the Japanese apple it's "sweet" moniker.

Serving Ideas

The flavor, sweetness and crisp texture of the sweet orin makes it an ideal apple for baking and eating fresh, out-of-hand. Make a sweet applesauce without the added sugar. Add to green or fruit salads for texture and flavor, or slice and serve alongside strong cheeses.

Ethnic/Cultural Info

In Japan, the sweet orin is often eaten fresh, sliced and shared with friends and family after meals on special occasions.

Geography/History

The sweet orin apple was developed in Aomori, Japan and is a cross between Golden Delicious and Indo apples. Introduced in 1952, the orin is now the third most grown apple in Japan and it is commercially produced as an organic apple in British Columbia, Canada. Sweet orin apples are also grown in the US Pacific Northwest.

Seasons/Availability

Sweet orin apples are available in the fall.