Moon Drop grapes are elongated, and dark purple grapes are a sight that can make anyone do a double-take at the grocery store. But their appeal goes beyond their unusual shape.
Moon Drop grapes are at their prime between late summer and early fall. This is when they reach their peak sweetness, and the skin develops a satisfying crunch. It’s like nature’s way of adding a little excitement to the transition of seasons.
Imagine biting into a sweeter and crunchier grape than your typical variety. That’s what you get with Moon Drop grapes.
Now, let’s talk more about the taste and discover what makes them a must-try.
How Do Moon Drop Grapes Taste?
When you bite into a Moon Drop grape, it’s a rich, full-bodied sweetness that’s like indulging in a spoonful of blackberry jam. But don’t be fooled. These grapes are not just about sweetness.
There’s a hint of tartness that lingers, a playful zing that balances the sweetness. It’s like a splash of lemonade on a hot day, refreshing and invigorating. This sweet-tart interplay is what sets Moon Drop grapes apart from your regular grapes.
And let’s not forget about the texture. Moon Drop grapes have a firm, crunchy exterior that encases a juicy interior. The crunch is satisfying, and the juiciness is refreshing. This contrast in texture makes each bite of a Moon Drop grape an experience to savor.
Varieties Of Moon Drop Grapes
- Sweet Sapphire Grapes: These are often confused with Moon Drop grapes due to their similar elongated shape. However, their taste is slightly different. Sweet Sapphire grapes have a more uniform sweetness without Moon Drop grapes’ tartness.
- Cotton Candy Grapes: As the name suggests, these grapes have a unique flavor that’s reminiscent of cotton candy. They’re incredibly sweet but lack the tart undertone and the crunchy texture of Moon Drop grapes.
- Gum Drop Grapes: These are another sweet variety with a flavor that’s often compared to candy. They’re less tart than Moon Drop grapes, and their sweetness is more pronounced.
Comparing Moon Drop Grapes With Other Fruits
- Blackberries: Moon Drop grapes have a similar sweetness to ripe blackberries. However, blackberries have a softer texture, and their sweetness is often accompanied by a slight bitterness, which is not present in Moon Drop grapes.
- Concord Grapes: Concord grapes are a common variety that’s known for their robust grape flavor. They’re less sweet than Moon Drop grapes and have a softer texture.
- Blueberries: Blueberries have a sweet-tart flavor similar to Moon Drop grapes. However, their texture is much softer, and their sweetness is less intense.
Do Moon Drop Grapes Taste Good?
Moon Drop grapes are a real treat for those who appreciate a good balance of sweet and tart in their fruit. Their unique flavor profile, combined with a satisfying crunch, makes them a standout in the world of grapes.
If you enjoy a berry that’s not just sweet but also has a bit of a tangy kick, then Moon Drop grapes are for you.
However, if you’re not a fan of tartness in your fruit, Moon Drop grapes might not be your first choice. Their tartness is subtle, but it’s there, adding a layer of complexity to their flavor.
If you prefer your grapes to be purely sweet, you might want to stick with varieties like Cotton Candy or Gum Drop grapes.
Moon Drop grapes are best enjoyed fresh and at their peak ripeness, which is typically between late summer and early fall. This is when their flavors are most pronounced, and their texture is at its crunch. They’re perfect for eating raw or adding to fruit salads.
Cooking Moon Drop grapes isn’t common, as heat can diminish their unique flavor and texture. However, they can be frozen as a cool, refreshing snack on a hot day.
What Do Moon Drop Grapes Look Like?
Moon Drop grapes are quite the showstopper with their unique shape and color. They’re elongated, almost like miniature eggplants, and their skin is a deep, dark purple that’s almost black. This unusual appearance can make them stand out in any fruit display.
When buying Moon Drop grapes at the grocery store, look for bunches of firm, plump grapes. The skin should be smooth and free of wrinkles or blemishes.
Also, the color should be consistent throughout, without any green or light-colored patches. A good bunch of Moon Drop grapes will feel heavy for their size, indicating that the grapes are juicy and ripe.
Do Moon Drop Grapes Have Seeds?
One of the many appealing features of Moon Drop grapes is that they are seedless. This makes them easy to eat and enjoy without the inconvenience of dealing with seeds.
So, whether you’re packing them for a picnic or adding them to your child’s lunchbox, you can rest assured that eating Moon Drop grapes will be a fuss-free experience.
How To Use Moon Drop Grapes
Recipes
- Moon Drop Grape Salad: Toss Moon Drop grapes with greens, goat cheese, and candied pecans. Drizzle with a balsamic vinaigrette for a salad that’s bursting with flavor and texture. The sweetness of the grapes pairs beautifully with the tangy goat cheese and the crunch of the pecans.
- Roasted Moon Drop Grapes: While Moon Drop grapes are typically eaten fresh, they can be roasted for a different take. Toss them in a bit of olive oil and roast until they’re slightly shriveled, and their sweetness is concentrated. They make a great topping for crostini with a smear of ricotta cheese.
- Moon Drop Grape Salsa: Chop Moon Drop grapes and mix with diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh and fruity salsa. It’s a unique twist on the traditional salsa and goes great with grilled chicken or fish.
Side Dishes
- Moon Drop Grape and Quinoa Salad: Mix cooked quinoa with halved Moon Drop grapes, chopped cucumber, and feta cheese. Dress with a lemon vinaigrette for a light, refreshing side dish perfect for summer barbecues.
- Moon Drop Grape and Cucumber Skewers: Skewer Moon Drop grapes and cucumber slices for a fun and healthy side dish. The grapes add a sweet pop of flavor that complements the crisp cucumber. Serve with a yogurt dip for added creaminess.
- Moon Drop Grape Compote: Simmer Moon Drops grapes with a bit of sugar and lemon juice until they break into a thick sauce. This compote is a delicious side for roast meats or a topping for yogurt and desserts.
Moon Drop Grape FAQs
Can you eat the skin of Moon Drop grapes?
Absolutely! The skin of Moon Drop grapes is perfectly safe to eat. In fact, it adds a delightful crunch to the juicy interior of the grape.
How should you store Moon Drop grapes?
Moon Drop grapes should be kept in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. It’s best to keep them in a plastic bag with holes for ventilation to prevent moisture build-up.
Are Moon Drop grapes expensive?
The price of Moon Drop grapes can vary depending on the time of year and where you buy them. They can be a bit more expensive than common grape varieties due to their unique shape and flavor.
Are Moon Drop grapes genetically modified?
No, Moon Drop grapes are not genetically modified. They are a product of natural cross-breeding techniques grape growers use to create new and interesting varieties.
Can you freeze Moon Drop grapes?
Yes, you can freeze Moon Drop grapes. They make a refreshing snack straight from the freezer, especially during the hot summer months. Just wash and dry them thoroughly before freezing to maintain their quality.
My Tasty Thoughts
So, there you have it, a journey through the intriguing world of Moon Drop grapes. These elongated, dark purple fruits are not just a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds.
Their satisfying crunch and juicy interior make each bite a memorable experience, making them a delightful addition to any fruit bowl.
If you enjoy a balance of sweet and tart in your berry, then these grapes are a must-try. But if you prefer your fruit to be purely sweet without any tartness, you might find the flavor of these grapes a bit complex.
Also, their availability can be limited, as they have a relatively short season and can be a bit more expensive than common grape varieties.
Ultimately, the world of grapes is vast and varied, and there’s always something new to taste and enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of the classic varieties or love to try the more unusual ones, there’s a grape out there for everyone.