Overview of Imported Fresh Cherries
Imported fresh cherries are a popular, nutrient-rich fruit often sourced from countries like the USA, Canada, Turkey, or New Zealand. They come in varieties such as sweet cherries (Bing, Rainier) or tart cherries (Montmorency), with a juicy, fleshy texture and a small central pit.
Health Benefits of Cherries
-
Rich in Antioxidants
Cherries are loaded with anthocyanins and melatonin, which reduce inflammation and support brain health. -
Supports Heart Health
Potassium and polyphenols in cherries regulate blood pressure and improve cardiovascular function. -
Promotes Better Sleep
Tart cherries are an excellent natural source of melatonin, helping regulate sleep cycles. -
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Anthocyanins help alleviate arthritis symptoms and muscle soreness. -
Boosts Immunity
High in vitamin C, cherries enhance immune defense mechanisms.
Nutritional Value (Per 100g of Fresh Cherries)
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0.3g
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Vitamins: Vitamin C (7mg), Vitamin A (64 IU)
- Minerals: Potassium (260mg), Magnesium (11mg), Iron (0.3mg)
How to Eat Cherries
- Raw: Enjoy them fresh, as a quick snack.
- Juiced: Blend cherries into a refreshing juice or smoothie.
- Baked: Use in pies, cakes, or muffins.
- Sauced: Cook into a cherry compote or glaze.
- Topping: Add to salads, desserts, or yogurt.
Taste
Fresh cherries are juicy and sweet with a hint of tartness, especially in the case of sour cherry varieties. The taste intensifies when cooked, making them ideal for desserts and savory pairings.
Step-by-Step Full Detailed Recipe
Cherry Compote
Ingredients
- Fresh cherries: 500g (pitted)
- Sugar: 100g (adjust to taste)
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
- Water: ½ cup
- Cornstarch: 1 tsp (optional, for thickening)
Steps
-
Prepare Cherries
- Wash and pit the cherries.
-
Cook
- In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to simmer.
-
Thicken
- If desired, dissolve cornstarch in 1 tbsp water and stir it into the compote. Cook for 2 minutes.
-
Cool and Serve
- Let it cool and use as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or ice cream.
5 Indian Recipes with Fresh Cherries
1. Cherry Kheer
Ingredients:
- Cherries: 200g (chopped)
- Milk: 1 liter
- Rice: ¼ cup
- Sugar: 5 tbsp
- Cardamom powder: ½ tsp
- Almonds: 10, chopped
Steps:
- Cook rice in milk until soft. Add sugar, cardamom, and cherries. Simmer. Garnish with almonds.
2. Cherry Chutney
Ingredients:
- Cherries: 250g
- Sugar: 3 tbsp
- Vinegar: 1 tbsp
- Cumin powder: 1 tsp
- Red chili flakes: ½ tsp
Steps:
- Cook cherries with sugar, vinegar, and spices until thickened. Cool and serve.
3. Cherry Lassi
Ingredients:
- Cherries: 100g (pitted)
- Yogurt: 1 cup
- Sugar: 2 tbsp
- Cardamom powder: ¼ tsp
Steps:
- Blend cherries, yogurt, sugar, and cardamom. Serve chilled.
4. Cherry Halwa
Ingredients:
- Cherries: 200g (pureed)
- Semolina: 1 cup
- Ghee: 3 tbsp
- Sugar: ½ cup
- Milk: 2 cups
Steps:
- Roast semolina in ghee. Add milk, sugar, and cherry puree. Cook until thick.
5. Cherry Pickle
Ingredients:
- Cherries: 250g
- Mustard oil: 2 tbsp
- Mustard seeds: 1 tsp
- Turmeric: ½ tsp
- Red chili powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: To taste
Steps:
- Heat oil, add spices, then cherries. Mix well. Store in a sterilized jar.
5 Non-Indian Recipes with Fresh Cherries
1. Cherry Pie
Ingredients:
- Cherries: 400g (pitted)
- Sugar: 100g
- Cornstarch: 2 tbsp
- Pie crust: 1 (pre-made)
- Butter: 1 tbsp
Steps:
- Mix cherries, sugar, and cornstarch. Fill pie crust and bake at 180°C for 35–40 minutes.
2. Cherry Smoothie
Ingredients:
- Cherries: 200g
- Banana: 1
- Yogurt: ½ cup
- Milk: ½ cup
- Honey: 1 tbsp
Steps:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth. Serve chilled.
3. Cherry Salad
Ingredients:
- Cherries: 150g
- Arugula: 2 cups
- Goat cheese: 50g
- Walnuts: ¼ cup
- Balsamic dressing: 2 tbsp
Steps:
- Toss all ingredients in a bowl. Drizzle with dressing.
4. Cherry Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- Cherries: 250g (sauce)
- Cream cheese: 200g
- Sugar: 100g
- Graham crackers: 200g (crust)
- Butter: 100g
Steps:
- Make a crust with crackers and butter. Blend cheese and sugar. Layer and top with cherry sauce.
5. Cherry Sorbet
Ingredients:
- Cherries: 300g
- Sugar: 100g
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
Steps:
- Blend cherries, sugar, and lemon. Freeze and churn for a smooth texture.