"Honeycrisp apples made me feel like I've never lived before" - Tanya Dang 2020
The other day, one of our Costco Buddies, Tanya Dang, approached me RAVING about the honeycrisp apple she had just eaten from Costco. She described the experience as "life-changing" and "rejuvenating", among other adjectives, and I was riveted by her passion for something as seemingly mundane as honeycrisp apples. I immediately knew I wanted to feature this story on the Costco Buddies blog, so we scheduled an interview. Below are the topics we discussed and the many bold statements that were made.
I started off the interview asking what, exactly, drew Tanya into the world of honeycrisp apples. She told me she had her first honeycrisp apple at her cousin's house, and she instantly knew she had to get them again. When she embarked on a Costco trip with her mother, Tanya saw honeycrisp apples being sold in bulk at Costco and bought them immediately.
I myself am not an apple connoisseur, and I was not particularly aware of the astute differences between honeycrisp apples and other apple types. Tanya described to me that the honeycrisp apple was unique in that it checked off all the boxes that she was looking for in an apple. Tanya reported that the apple is "absolutely scrumptious," retaining a sweet flavor and crunch that she had never seen executed so perfectly in an apple before.
"Every bite is the perfect bite. Crispy, crunchy, fresh, sweet, tangy at the same time."
Other than its remarkable flavor, Tanya also remarked that the honeycrisp apple is an extremely versatile food. Its sweet and tangy flavor along with its crisp and crunchy texture makes it the perfect ingredient for many desired meals. Tanya describes how the honeycrisp apple is quintessential for baked concoctions. In the example of an apple pie, the ideal apple holds its shape but also stays soft- and the honeycrisp apple does just that. Tanya mentioned to me that in an Epicurious episode of "4 Levels of Apple Pie: Amateur to Food Scientist," the level 2 chef had used honeycrisp apples in her creation and explained their crisp factor. Watch it here ↓
However, Tanya's most preferred method of consumption is the classic wash and devour. After washing the apple thoroughly, Tanya actually recommends storing honeycrisp apples in the refrigerator. She claims that eating the apple slightly cold will maximize the flavor and the crisp. Another pro to this method is that the apples have a longer shelf life. Especially in quarantine right now, it has become exceedingly more difficult to keep fresh produce on hand. However, storing honeycrisp apples in the fridge not only keeps them fresh for longer, but also increases their palatability.
“When you bite into an apple while its cold it’s like a flavor bomb that brightens your whole mouth… it uplifts your mood immediately.”
One throbbing question I had to ask Tanya was- why now? Why buy honeycrisp apples right now when their ideal season was in the fall? To this, Tanya remarked that "Honeycrisp apple can be enjoyed at any time of the year. And found at Costco at any time of the year." Very true. Especially with the introduction of spring weather and the approaching summer, Tanya believes the honeycrisp apple perfectly captures the season's vibe.
"Spring is all about rejuvenation and vibrant colors and rebirth. Honey crisp apples is just like giving yourself new life. Not just for your body, but also for your soul; the honeycrisp apple feeds your soul."
Furthermore, the color of the honeycrisp apple itself is one to marvel about. Tanya states, "Once you look at a honeycrisp apple, you KNOW it's a honeycrisp apple." The classic swirl of red, orange, and yellow, not only makes this apple a celebrated staple, but also the perfect addition to meals for that extra pop of color. (see picture below for vivid imagery)
In addition, Tanya boldly remarks that the honeycrisp apple has had mental health benefits for her as well. I think we can all agree that food definitely plays a large part in our mental state. I, for one, can concur that the food I eat can drastically change my mood for an hour or even a day. Tanya explains that having a delicious and fresh honeycrisp apple helps her feel energized and rejuvenated. She revealed to me that quarantine can be rough on an individual's psyche, and that feeding your body with healthy food that you enjoy can definitely brighten your mood and motivate you to stay productive and focused. After all, you are what you eat.
"If you are feeding your soul and your body with delicious healthy apples, I guarantee that will uplift your mental state."
Tanya finished off the interview urging others to not only try the honeycrisp apple, but also to try new things in general. She states, "This apple is not a risky apple. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Try a variety, you never know what you’ll like."
Depending on the size, these apples range from 10-20 dollars, according to my research. You can reach and follow Tanya Dang at:
Instagram~ tanya.nx
TikTok~ tnttsavio
stay safe 💙 :)
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