Tis the season to eat cherries! Here’s a quick rundown on everything you should know about this popular festive fruit including recipes, health benefits, and how to select and store them.
When is cherry season in Australia?
Cherry season in Australia only lasts for 100 days from November to February. When they are in season you’ll see them everywhere as most people try to make the most of this delicious fruit before they disappear for another year.
What to look for when buying cherries
It is a good idea to buy cherries with their stems still on as this helps them stay fresher for longer. The skin of the cherry should be shiny and a deep, dark shade of red. They should feel firm to touch.
How to store cherries
Cherries should be refrigerated to keep them fresher for longer, they can also be successfully frozen.
What are the health benefits of cherries?
Cherries are a good source of fibre, vitamins and minerals. They have been linked to a whole range of health benefits including;
- Improved sleep – According to this article published in Forbes magazine, cherries are one of the only natural sources of melatonin. This is the chemical in your body that regulates sleep.
- Facilitating weight loss- Cherries are rich in anthocyanins, which boost fat-fighting enzymes that help oxidize fat in the body. They are also high in fibre which benefits digestion and helps you feel full quicker, causing you to eat less.
- Healthy looking skin- Cherries contain vitamins A, B, C and E which are all very good for keeping the skin looking healthy. Vitamin C fights aging, A helps with cell turnover, and B and E are great hydrators.
- Hair growth- Cherries help to balance your PH levels which is a key for encouraging hair growth.
- Improve exercise recovery – Studies have shown that cherries can help to improve the process of recovery from exercise induced soreness and loss of strength.
Popular cherry Christmas recipes
A cherry dessert is a staple of the Aussie Christmas lunch. Here are some favourite cherry recipes you might like to try out over the festive season.
- Cherry, walnut and feta salad – Whether you’re serving up for fussy family members or to health conscious customers in your restaurant, this salad is always a crowd pleaser.
- Cherry Glazed Ham – combine two Christmas staples, cherries and ham to create the perfect centerpiece for your Christmas feast.
- Cherry Pie – impress your guests with a mini version of this classic desert
- Christmas Cherry Fruit Cake – Just like your Grandma used to make!
Looking to source fresh, local cherries for your food business? V One has access to the best suppliers in the region. Get in touch with us about making V One your partner in produce today.