Two Favourite Serbian Fruits

It is very difficult to find a backyard in Serbia without an apricot tree. Apricot trees are common throughout the country. There are around 1.7 million apricot trees in Serbia. With an average yield per tree of 25.2 kilograms, Serbia produced more than 40 thousand tons of apricots. The greatest concentration of apricot trees can be found along the Danube River. The varieties of apricots that are most often grown in Serbia are Hungarian Best, Roxana and Keckmet Rose. Hungarian Best apricots are sweet and attractive and balance excellent flavor, aroma and acidity. Such characteristics make these apricots well suited for processing in many ways. In Serbia, apricots are enjoyed both fresh and processed. Processed apricots can be found in jams and various other preserves. Just like with many other fruits, alcoholic beverages made of apricots are well known in Serbia. Juices are another characteristic beverage made of apricots and there is a long tradition of production. Out of total Serbian apricot exports, almost 75% are juices, 20% are fresh and the remaining 5% are accounted by frozen, canned and dried apricots. Peaches are another favorite fruit in Serbia, and are used to produce a wide variety of products. There are around 4 million peach trees in Serbia. With an average yield per tree of 14.7 kilograms, Serbia produced 58 thousand tons in 2004. Out of total Serbian peach exports, 46% are exported fresh and 54% in the form of juice.