Asian natives, Nanking cherries (Prunus tomentosa) are small, bright red fruits. They belong to the rose family & are frequently grown for both their tasty fruit and their decorative value. Because of their distinct tart flavor, nanking cherries are ideal for a wide range of culinary applications. These cherries are a nutritious addition to any diet because they are also loaded with antioxidants, fiber, & vitamin C.
Nanking cherries can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of recipes. They are usually ready for harvest in late spring or early summer. They can be added to baked goods & savory recipes, eaten raw, or used in jams and jellies. For both professional chefs and home cooks, their distinct flavor and versatility make them a popular option. There are a gazillion ways to use these delectable fruits in your cooking, whether you happen to have a Nanking cherry tree in your backyard or you find them at the farmers’ market. In addition to being tasty, nanking cherries have several health advantages.
Due to their high antioxidant content, they may help shield the body from oxidative stress and lower the chance of developing chronic illnesses. They are also a good source of vitamin C, which is necessary for healthy skin & a strong immune system. Also beneficial to gut health and digestion is the fiber content found in Nanking cherries. Nanking cherries are a great addition to any diet because of their distinct flavor & nutritious profile. The delightful tart flavor of these small red fruits can be preserved by making jam from Nanking cherries.
Pitting & washing the cherries is the first step in making Nanking cherry jam. Put the cherries in a big pot with sugar & a spritz of lemon juice. Stirring occasionally, cook the mixture over medium heat until the cherries have softened and released their juices. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly once the cherries have broken down & the mixture has thickened.
| Recipe Name | Ingredients | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Nanking Cherry Jam | Nanking cherries, sugar, lemon juice | 1 hour |
| Nanking Cherry Pie | Nanking cherries, sugar, flour, butter, pie crust | 1.5 hours |
| Nanking Cherry Smoothie | Nanking cherries, yogurt, honey, banana | 10 minutes |
After that, fill the sterilized jars with the cherry mixture & screw the lid on. To make sure the jars are adequately preserved, process them in a hot water bath. You can keep the jars for up to a year in a cool, dark place after they have cooled. Nanking cherry jam works well as a filling for pastries and cakes, as well as for spreading on toast or biscuits and swirling into yogurt or oatmeal.
It is a pleasure to have in any pantry because of its bright color and zesty flavor. A wonderful way to savor the fruits of the season all year long, Nanking cherry jam is also incredibly tasty. A hit with family and friends, the spread’s perfectly balanced sweetness and natural tartness from the cherries combine to create a delightful combination. Another great way to stay in touch with the seasons & enjoy summer flavors long after the harvest is done is to make your own jam.
Smoothies made from these tiny red cherries are a nutrient-dense and refreshing way to eat them. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, some spinach or kale, yogurt, or frozen cherries should all be blended together to create the base of a Nanking cherry smoothie. For an additional taste and protein boost, you can also add a scoop of nut butter or protein powder. Add more liquid as necessary to achieve the desired consistency after blending the ingredients until they are smooth and creamy. Smoothies made with Nanking cherries are nutrient-dense and delicious.
The leafy greens add vitamins and minerals, and the cherries bring a burst of tart flavor and bright color. This smoothie is a filling and stimulating choice for breakfast or a midday snack because the yogurt or milk adds creaminess and protein. To make your own special combination, you can also add extra fruits to your smoothie, like berries or bananas. A great way to include these unusual fruits in your daily routine is to make smoothies with Nanking cherries. These smoothies are going to become a family favorite, whether you use them for a quick on-the-go breakfast or as a post-workout recovery drink. Smoothies made with Nanking cherries are a delightful way to enjoy summertime flavors all year long because of their vibrant color and crisp flavor.
Nanking cherry salad highlights the tartness of these tiny red fruits with a colorful & flavorful dish. To prepare Nanking cherry salad, first toss fresh cherries from Nanking with mixed greens, like spinach or arugula, in a big bowl. Toasted nuts or seeds can add crunch, and crumbled goat or feta cheese can add creaminess and saltiness. Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a small amount of honey to make a basic vinaigrette and toss it with the salad. Nutritious and delicious, Nanking cherry salad is a must-try. The greens give the salad vitamins & minerals, and the cherries give it a pop of color and tartness.
Richness and depth of flavor are added by the cheese, & protein and healthy fats are provided by the nuts or seeds. As an accompaniment to grilled meats or shellfish, this salad is ideal for a light lunch. It is a unique dish that is sure to impress because of the way the flavors and textures are combined. To enjoy these unusual fruits in a savory application, try the delicious Nanking cherry salad.
A well-balanced and satisfying dish is produced when the tartness of the cherries is paired with the richness of the cheese and the earthiness of the greens. Nanking cherry salad is a surefire hit at any gathering, whether it’s served as an elegant starter at a dinner party or as part of a summer picnic. Tender chicken combined with the tartness of these little red fruits is an exquisite and delectable dish known as Nanking cherry chicken. The first step in making Nanking cherry chicken is to sear the skinless, boneless chicken breasts in a hot skillet until both sides are golden brown. After removing it from the skillet, set the chicken aside.
Add the garlic and shallots to the same skillet and cook until they become soft. Then, use chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan. For an herbal flavor, add some thyme or rosemary to the skillet along with some fresh or frozen Nanking cherries.
Return the chicken to the skillet and continue cooking it until it is thoroughly cooked after simmering the mixture until the cherries have softened and released their juices. Present the Nanking cherry chicken accompanied by steamed vegetables and a side of rice or quinoa for a sumptuous & impressive meal. In addition to being incredibly tasty, Nanking cherry chicken is a fantastic way to highlight the distinct flavor of these tiny red fruits in a savory meal. This dish is well-balanced & satisfying, ideal for any occasion, with the tartness of the cherries contrasting nicely with the savory chicken & aromatic herbs.
The Nanking cherry chicken is a unique dish that is sure to please everyone, whether it is served for a special dinner at home or as part of a joyous gathering with friends and family. Dessert made with nanking cherries is a delicious way to highlight the naturally tart flavor and vivid color of these tiny red fruits. To begin making Nanking cherry dessert, prepare a basic cake or tart crust to serve as the dessert’s foundation. Top with fresh, pitted and halved Nanking cherries once it has cooled. The cherries’ inherent sweetness can be enhanced by adding a little sugar on top of them. You can add richness and indulgence to your Nanking cherry dessert by topping it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special touch.
A delectable dessert that will delight everyone at the table is made with a combination of juicy cherries, creamy topping, and tender cake or flaky crust. Not only is Nanking cherry dessert a delightful treat, but it’s also a great way to experience these unusual fruits in a sweet setting. This is a perfectly balanced treat that works well for any occasion because of the wonderful pairing between the tart cherries & the sweetness of the cake or crust. A delicious Nanking cherry dessert is guaranteed to please any crowd and leave them craving more, whether it is served as the centerpiece of a special meal or as part of a relaxed weeknight dinner.
Nanking cherries can be added to a variety of dinner ideas for an extra flavor and nutritional boost, in addition to being used in jams, smoothies, salads, chicken dishes, and desserts. For instance, you can simmer them with balsamic vinegar and honey until thickened and use the mixture as a glaze for roasted duck breast or pork tenderloin. Rich meats and the tartness of the cherries combine to create a main course that is both flavorful & elegant. Nanking cherries can also be blended with ketchup, brown sugar, and spices like cayenne and paprika to make a tangy barbecue sauce for grilled chicken or ribs.
The inherent tartness of the cherries gives the sauce a rich flavor and a stunning color that will wow your guests. Nanking cherries can also be used for dinner by layering them with creamy goat cheese or ricotta on top of puff pastry in savory tarts or galettes. This recipe, which is great for entertaining or enjoying as part of a special dinner at home, combines savory and sweet flavors to create an irresistible dish. Conclusively, Nanking cherries are adaptable fruits that find extensive usage in various culinary contexts. You can use these unusual fruits in a variety of culinary applications, from savory salads and main courses to sweet jams and desserts.
Use the vivid color & tart flavor of fresh Nanking cherries in your next culinary creation, whether you can get them from your own tree or buy them at the farmers’ market!
FAQs
What are Nanking cherries?
Nanking cherries are small, tart fruits that are native to Asia. They are often used in cooking and baking due to their unique flavor.
Where can I find Nanking cherries?
Nanking cherries can be found growing on shrubs in gardens, orchards, and even in the wild. They are also available for purchase at some specialty grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
What are some popular recipes for Nanking cherries?
Some popular recipes for Nanking cherries include Nanking cherry jam, Nanking cherry pie, Nanking cherry sauce, and Nanking cherry muffins. They can also be used in cocktails, salads, and as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
How do I prepare Nanking cherries for cooking?
To prepare Nanking cherries for cooking, you will need to wash and pit them. This can be done by hand or with a cherry pitter. Once pitted, they are ready to be used in your chosen recipe.
Are Nanking cherries nutritious?
Yes, Nanking cherries are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. They are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
