Crack grapes, also known as popcorn grapes or crispy grapes, are a relatively new variety of grape that have become popular in recent years for their unique texture. As the name suggests, crack grapes have a crispy, crunchy flesh that pops and cracks audibly when eaten. This distinctive texture sets them apart from traditional grape varieties that have a juicy, jelly-like interior.
Origin of Crack Grapes
Crack grapes were first developed and patented in 2011 by horticulturists at the University of Arkansas. The cultivators crossed traditional grape varieties with a wild grape species native to the southwestern United States called Vitis shuttleworthii or “desert grape.” This wild grape species naturally develops a crispy, crunchy texture due to its adaptation to hot, arid climates.
By crossing the desert grape with common table grape varieties like Thompson Seedless, the University of Arkansas team was able to introduce the crispy texture into grapes suitable for commercial cultivation. The resulting hybrid was named “Arkansas Popcorn” and eventually trademarked as “Crack Grapes.”
Cultivation of Crack Grapes
Crack grapes are now grown commercially, primarily in California’s Central Valley. They require similar hot, dry conditions to fully develop their signature crunchiness. The grapes are harvested in late summer and early fall when the sugars have concentrated but the flesh is still firm.
Growing crack grapes requires meticulous attention to irrigation and pruning techniques. If the vines get too much water, the grapes can turn soft and lose their crunchy texture. Proper pruning is also critical to achieve ideal sun exposure and air circulation within the grape clusters.
Table 1 shows the key cultivation requirements for achieving optimal crack grape quality:
| Cultivation Factor | Requirements for Crack Grapes |
|---|---|
| Climate | Hot, arid, low humidity |
| Irrigation | Careful control, avoid overwatering |
| Pruning | Aggressive, promote air circulation |
| Harvest Timing | Late summer to early fall |
Appearance and Flavor
Crack grapes look very similar to common red and green seedless grapes. They have oval shaped berries that grow in loose bunches. The most noticeable difference is that crack grapes tend to be slightly smaller than regular table grapes.
When cut open, crack grapes have a thicker skin and flesh. They also contain edible seeds, unlike traditional seedless varieties. The seeds contribute to the signature crunchy texture.
In terms of flavor, crack grapes taste very similar to regular grapes. They have a balanced sweetness and tartness when ripe. The main experience is the crunchy, crispy texture that pops as you bite into the grapes.
Popular Varieties
There are several proprietary varieties of crack grapes, including:
- Crispy Green Grape – green skinned
- Crispy Red Grape – red skinned
- Sweet Sapphire – purple skinned
- Tuxedo – red and green skinned
Nutrition
The nutritional profile of crack grapes is very similar to regular table grapes. One cup of crack grapes contains:
- 104 calories
- 1 gram protein
- 0 grams fat
- 27 grams carbohydrates
- 1 gram fiber
- 24 grams sugar
Like all grapes, crack grapes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants like resveratrol. The edible seeds provide an extra nutritional boost by adding fiber, iron, and magnesium.
Benefits
Studies show grapes provide many health benefits. Eating them may:
- Reduce inflammation
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve heart health
- Control blood sugar
As genetically similar varieties, crack grapes likely share the same advantages. Their extra crunchiness adds a novel texture experience that may get people to eat more grapes overall.
Uses
Crack grapes can be enjoyed raw as a convenient, healthy snack. Their texture also lends well to certain culinary applications.
Snacking
Crack grapes are perfect for snacking right off the vine. The crispy pops and cracks make them a fun treat. Kids in particular enjoy the experience. Freeze crack grapes for a cool, extra crunchy snack on a hot day.
Salads and Cheese Boards
In salads, crack grapes add a juicy sweetness along with a nice crunch factor. Pair them with blue cheese and nuts over greens. Crack grapes also make an eye-catching addition to a cheese board.
Roasting and Grilling
Due to their firm flesh, crack grapes hold up well to high heat. Roasting brings out their sweetness. Grilling imparts a delicious char while retaining the signature crunch.
Jams and Preserves
Cook crack grapes into jams, jellies, and preserves to highlight their unique texture. The seeds lend extra body and crunch. Crack grape preserves are delicious paired with cheeses and meats.
Storage
Crack grapes are highly perishable and do not store well. For best quality and texture, they should be consumed within 1-2 days of purchase. Refrigeration can extend their shelf life slightly, but chilling damages the cell structure that gives them their crunch.
To extend the storage time, crack grapes can be dehydrated, frozen, or processed into jams. Dried crack grapes retain their seeds and make a shelf-stable, crispy snack.
Cost
Due to the meticulous hand labor required for cultivation and harvest, crack grapes are significantly more expensive than regular grapes. Prices typically range from $3.99 to $6.99 per pound. They are considered a specialty fruit.
Crack grapes are primarily available at select grocery stores like Whole Foods and specialty markets. Due to their premium pricing and niche status, they remain less common than regular grapes.
Downsides
There are a few potential downsides to consider with crack grapes:
- Higher cost compared to regular grapes
- Limited availability depending on location
- Short shelf life and storability
- Smaller berries with more seeds than seedless varieties
The Bottom Line
Crack grapes provide a novel, crunchy texture that makes them a fun snack. But flavor and nutrition-wise, they are quite similar to regular grapes. Due to the intensive cultivation required, crack grapes cost significantly more than standard grapes.
For most people, crack grapes may be an occasional indulgence rather than a daily staple. They can be a nice way to mix up the snacking routine for both kids and adults. Just don’t expect them to stay fresh for more than a couple days.