Dried Blenheim Apricots

Why They're Good:

Van Dyke Ranch is one of a handful of producers of the delectable and endangered Blenheim, which it supplies to We Love Jam, among others. As fourth-generation farmer, Betty Van Dyke says, "If you've never had a Blenheim, you don't know what a real apricot tastes like." Its dried apricots are hand-cut and sun-dried on redwood trays — some of which Van Dyke's father handcrafted in the 1930s. Van Dyke Ranch offers both sulfured and natural apricots. (Sulfured apricots retain their color after drying.) Both are delicious with chopped pecans and walnuts, or savored with a square of dark chocolate.

Why They're Green:

The Van Dykes' apricots are certified-organic and the family aims to preserve the delicate Blenheim apricot, which has become less profitable for farmers to grow because industrial fruit growers and shippers favor varieties that mature earlier in the season and ship more easily.

Where To Get Them:

www.vandykeorganics.com |  $11.15 per pound